NYBG Spring/Weekend Explainer Internship

The New York Botanical Garden’s High School Explainer Program is a competitive, tiered internship for high school students. Intern Explainers begin as volunteers in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, exploring NYBG’s three-part mission of Science, Education, and Horticulture through hands-on tours and activities. They conduct citizen science phenology research in the Thain Family Forest, take seminars on environmental education, botany, climate literacy, horticulture, and career development, and lead science activities for visiting children and families.

Benefits: documented service hours and recommendations for college or scholarship programs, free Garden admission for your family, Café and Shop discounts, and OMNY cards for travel if you need them. After completing the internship, you can apply for paid Advanced, Mentor, and Senior Explainer positions.

Spring 2027 dates:

• Open House: Saturday, November 7, 2026, 1–2 pm (RSVP by October 30)
• Application deadline: Saturday, November 14, 2026, 11:59 pm
• Group interviews: November 21–22 or December 5–6, 2026
• Orientation (student and parent/guardian required): Wednesday, February 17, 2027, 7 pm
• Required training: March 6, 7, 13 & 14, 2027, 10 am – 4:30 pm
• Internship: one 4.5-hour shift every Saturday or Sunday, March 20 – June 19, 2027 (at least 105 service hours)

Eligibility:

• High school students
• No special skills or knowledge needed, just an interest in nature, science, and teaching children
• Must attend orientation, all four training days, and a weekly weekend shift

How to apply: complete the online application by November 14, 2026. Applicants with complete applications are invited to an in-person group interview. Late applications are considered for the next session. Questions? Email explainers@nybg.org.