Christopher Adamec: Alma College, Political Science with Environmental Studies and Public Affairs

"This internship in the executive division of the MDEQ is exceptional because of our real workplace experience. I believe that the experience garnered here working with various members of government and the regulated community has helped prepare me for the real world in a way the classroom could not."

Jessie Bovay: Michigan State University, International Relations and Marketing

"My time with the DEQ executive office has been both a very informative and positive experience.  I have learned how a state department is run from the inside and how important environmental education is for the future of our state.  This internship has taught me that every little thing you do makes a difference."

Deborah Lai: Michigan State University, Chinese and International Relations with an Asian Studies Focus

"Interning at the DEQ not only gave me insight into how the government works, but taught me a multitude of skills as well.  I was thrown into a very real experience immediately.  During my summer internship, I learned how to research fundraising opportunities, present my data, and was even allowed to personally contact foundations.  The atmosphere was very encouraging overall, and I found this internship incredibly rewarding."

Donald McCulla: Michigan State University, Environmental Studies and Applications

Anna Baumgras: Michigan State University College of Law

"Working at the DEQ has been a remarkable experience.  As a first year law student, I was a little apprehensive about my first legal job.  However, having the ALJ's and attorneys trust my opinion on legal issues enhanced my confidence as a future lawyer. Additionally, the numerous research assignments improved my research, writing, and communication skills.  Moreover, the opportunity to work with different divisions and to attend hearings expanded my knowledge of both Michigan and federal environmental regulations.   I enjoyed my experience here enough to continue volunteering a second semester!"

Roland Bowler: Cooley Law School, Litigation

"My experience here as a DEQ legal extern has been very beneficial.  The experience I gained was broad, ranging from computer research regarding bioenergy to sitting in on a case the Attorney General argued in court.  The people, from the supervisors to my fellow externs, were all friendly and supportive.  Further, I learned about environmental issues that law school classes do not touch.  I recommend enrolling in this externship."

Jennifer Bunker: Michigan State University College of Law

Tamar Gontovnik: Indiana University School of Law

"In the short time that I worked at the DEQ, I had the opportunity to learn about many areas of environmental law and the day-to-day workings of a large agency.  Working in a state regulatory agency helped me learn about state law in some depth and introduced me to environmental policy issues I had never encountered before.  I had a great opportunity to work on an opinion with one of the Administrative Law Judges and also attended some hearings and arguments.  The people here were very welcoming and went out of their way to take us to meetings and give us interesting assignments, and the other interns were great co-workers.  The legal skills that I learned from working at the DEQ will help me in any future work that I do."

Olivia Cohn: Michigan State University, Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy

"A career goal that I hold is to pursue a career related to politics and policy-making.  Working among the Executive Division team at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has further encouraged me to pursue a career related to state government. The MDEQ Executive staffs' attitudes have impressed upon me that they truly care for the issues at hand, and that they work hard to move Michigan in a positive direction.  This attitude is something that I hope to model as I pursue my own career goals in the political arena."