The Missouri Botanical Garden Youth Fellowship Program is designed to recognize and support exceptional young individuals committed to environmental fields such as plant science, environmental research, restoration, education, advocacy, horticulture, botany, and nature immersion.
Program Overview
The Fellowship Program immerses students in a variety of disciplines within plant science and conservation. Fellows will work directly with scientists, horticulturists, and education specialists to develop a comprehensive understanding of botanical research, conservation initiatives, and ecological restoration. Projects can include everything from monitoring plant species and ecosystems to projects focused on environmental stewardship.
Benefits of the Fellowship
This unique experience allows high school students to build important skills, deepen their scientific knowledge, and form connections with professionals in the field of plant science. Fellows also have the chance to explore potential career paths in botany, ecology, and other natural sciences.
In addition to these educational and professional development opportunities, each Fellow will receive a $2000 stipend at the end of the program for their participation and contributions to the program. This stipend reflects the importance of their work and the value of the practical experience they gain during their time at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
The Youth Fellowship Experience:
- Orientation: Overview of the program, expectations, and roles within the Garden.
- Outcome-Based Research: Explore and research questions aligned with the Garden’s mission.
- Shadowing Experiences: Gain insights by shadowing professionals at the Garden.
- Accountability: Present research to a panel of professionals, sharing the impact and future decisions.
Fellowship Applicant Qualifications:
- Must reside in the 16-county St. Louis metropolitan region.
- Strong interest in the horticulture, conservation or botany.
- Attend monthly Youth Fellows meetings.
- Participate in shadowing experiences.
- Carry out projects developed during meetings.
- Pursue or plan to pursue higher education in plant science/botany, horticulture or environmental studies.
Youth Fellowship Experiences:
- Engage in virtual and in-person activities.
- Exposure to various careers at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
- Focus on local plant science topics.
- Experience in data analysis, report writing and presenting information.
Community Involvement:
- Execute plans created during meetings from January–May.
- Present research and experiences in June to Garden staff and guests.
Applications for the 2024–2025 program have ended. Check back to apply for the 2025–2026 cohort.
The Youth Fellowship Program is supported by the generous donations of
Dave and Mary Tognoni, the Jubel Foundation and the Saigh Foundation.