This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to work as an intern with the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund in Maui for 2 months. My internship was primarily divided between two distinct, yet equally rewarding experiences: “Turtle Watch” (a.k.a. Honu Watch) at Hoʻokipa Beach and educational outreach at the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Discovery Center. Throughout my time on this beautiful island (Maui), I not only deepened my understanding of marine conservation, but also fell in love with the culture and the people I was blessed to spend time with.
My favorite part, if I had to choose, would have to be spending time at Hoʻokipa Beach. As part of the Turtle Watch team, I had the privilege of witnessing the beauty of Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat and educating other visitors on the importance of respecting their space. The sense of responsibility and awe that came with ensuring their safety was incredibly impactful to me.
Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund interns, Daniela Guererro (L) and Hannah Pond (R), during the turtle nesting season on Maui in 2023. PC to Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund.
One of the most remarkable aspects of my internship was the opportunity to interact with locals and tourists alike. The Discovery Center became my second home, where I helped educate visitors about the rich biodiversity and ecosystems of Maui. Sharing knowledge about the island’s unique wildlife and the importance of preserving it was not just a job, but a deeply gratifying experience.
What truly made my internship unforgettable was the warmth of the people I encountered. Hannah and Magda embraced me with open arms, sharing their stories, traditions, and a way of life that celebrated the beauty of the natural world and made me feel like part of family from Day 1. The other interns were incredible and like-minded, and women I’ll be sure to keep in touch with for the years to come. My internship was not just about learning about marine life and conservation, but also about embracing a holistic approach to living in harmony with nature. In retrospect, my summer internship with the Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund in Maui was an incredibly life-changing experience. Moreover, I left with a deep affection for the people, culture, and traditions of Hawaiʻi.
As I reflect on my time in Maui, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Maui’s natural beauty and to have been welcomed into a community that radiated warmth and love. My time on this island will forever be in my heart as a reminder of the importance of protecting our planet and embracing the spirit of aloha in everything we do.
Thank you Hawaiʻi Wildlife Fund!
~ Hannah Pond
