Get Real Experience
No matter your major, at OSU-Cascades you'll find ways to elevate your learning — and your resume — with real experiences in your field. Nearly 80% of recent graduates engaged in one or more internships, practicums, capstone projects, service learning, leadership or study abroad experiences.
ODFW intern protecting native fish species
Natural resources student, Logan Uecker’s summer internship with ODFW’s fish division has been a highlight on the path to a career in wildlife conservation. A first-generation college student, Logan was charged with helping protect native species. One of his assignments was to work with a team to set nets in designated lakes and check them daily for tui chub, an invasive and fast-reproducing minnow that throws lake ecosystems out of whack. At East Lake, his team removed as many as 4,100 lbs. of tui chub (btw, they’re not chubby) in one day. Along the way, Logan learned how to pilot a boat, help with gill net and zooplankton surveys, and cast nets to assess the health of the lake. A bonus, Logan’s new skills and knowledge were gained against the backdrop of 16 of Central Oregon’s gorgeous mountain lakes. This was the summer after his freshman year. Imagine what’s next.
Lumber products intern at Plateau Forest Products
At his internship with Plateau Forest Products this summer, business administration senior David Keeton rotated between billing, accounts payable and logistics. He was also charged with creating a business plan for a product the company could consider trading in the future. David researched hardwood plywood — who makes it, who buys it, how to transport it, if it would be a profitable commodity for the company, and everything in between. He then presented his plan to the higher-ups. “It’s this kind of real-word education that makes an internship so valuable,” he said. “The company is invested in you doing well, and it’s a great way to test the waters for the future.” David, a student veteran (U.S. Marine Corps, 2016-2023), grew up in Sisters and after living in Washington D.C., was excited to learn about OSU-Cascades’ business program close to home. He credits the small campus size and connections with professors for making it easier to find internships.
Therapeutic riding intern at Healing Reins
As an intern at Healing Reins Therapeutic Riding Center, kinesiology major Hailey Hendrickson '23 put her biomechanics courses to work. She helped people with a range of cognitive and physical abilities ride horses to build core strength, which improved their overall balance, movement and mobility. Plus, being around the horses was a lot of fun. "I think the mission of Healing Reins to help others through the use of animals is very powerful and moving," said Hailey.
Zipline tour intern at Mt. Bachelor
Tourism, recreation and adventure leadership major Dominic Vezzani has worked as a terrain park supervisor at Mt. Bachelor for the past six years. For his internship, he wanted to gain experience as a tour guide – and only had to look across the mountain to the zipline to find it. Launching from an elevation of 7,800 feet, Mt. Bachelor's zipline is the Northwest's steepest and fastest. Groups of 12 are guided down three platforms in this multi-step thrill ride. Dom scheduled the other tour guides, communicated with ticket sales, and did a lot of problem-solving. "This summer, I saw my self-confidence as a manager grow," he said. "Having difficult conversations is much easier now."
Sales intern at Hydro Flask
As a Hydro Flask sales intern, outdoor products major Brendan Lewis worked with buyers to improve Hydro Flask’s in-store merchandising, made sure e-commerce sites were up-to-date with photos and branding, and helped Hydro Flask’s team of sales managers with daily tasks. He loved every minute of it. “I do well with hands-on learning,” said Brendan. “I'm excited to be getting real-life experience in my field.” Originally from Sisters, Brendan feels lucky to have the outdoor products degree program and industry leaders right in his own backyard.
Wildlife conservation intern at Think Wild
When wild animals get injured, Think Wild's wildlife hospital on Bend's east side rehabilitates them to be released back into the wild. “It's important for wildlife to have a voice in conservation,” said tourism, recreation and adventure leadership major Liz Crandall. As a Think Wild intern, she fed, medicated and monitored animals ranging from songbirds to owls to skunks. About thirty percent of the animals have a good prognosis. “In the future, when I'm helping people enjoy the outdoors, I want to be more than just a guide,” said Liz. “I want people to have a richer understanding of the space they are in.”