Gap year working at a national park?

I've always loved nature and was thinking about working at a national park during my gap year. How do I find these types of opportunities, and what should I expect from the work?

Sure, taking a gap year to work in a national park is an excellent way to gain work experience, spend time outdoors, and potentially even explore a career path in conservation, environmental science, or park management.

Finding these opportunities can involve directly going to the websites of national parks or the National Park Service (NPS) to find job listings. Opportunities can range from park rangers and guides to work in maintenance, administration, or visitor centers. Usually, these jobs are seasonal, and the most abundant opportunities are during the summertime.

You might also want to consider programs like AmeriCorps or the Student Conservation Association, which specifically cater to young adults interested in environmental work or conservation. They offer programs of varying lengths, from a few weeks to a full year.

Expect the work to be physically demanding yet rewarding, especially if you love the outdoors. Daily tasks can range from organizing activities for park visitors, maintaining trails, and performing basic administrative duties, to even responding to park emergencies. One thing to be aware of is that since many park jobs are seasonal, they may not come with long-term job security or benefits that you might find in a traditional full-time job.

Lastly, make sure to emphasize this experience when you eventually apply to colleges. Admissions teams appreciate unique experiences, and working in a national park fits that description! You can highlight how you took on responsibilities, developed skills, or grew personally through the experience.

Just one more thing: remember to research housing options, as not all national parks provide accommodations for workers. Some do offer boarding facilities, but it's always better to check in advance. Enjoy your gap year!