VCU student awarded National Geographic society internship

By Malorie Burkett

RICHMOND, Va. - Suzanne Akers, 23, a senior in Virginia Commonwealth University's interdisciplinary studies program, has been awarded an internship with the National Geographic Society (NGS) in Washington, D.C. Akers will spend this spring semester at NGS working on the Nations of the World section of the National Geographic Atlas of the World and editing maps in the NGS book division.

Akers, who took courses in urban studies and geography in VCU's School of Government and Public Affairs, was introduced to the NGS internship through Dr. Helen Ruth Aspaas, assistant professor of government and public affairs, Akers' instructor and former NGS intern who encouraged Akers to apply.

Requirements for the application process included an essay, three letters of recommendation, a personal resume, application form and official transcripts. Akers was notified of her acceptance by phone from Robert E. Dulli, deputy to the chairman of National Geographic Society.

Akers is Aspaas' fifth student to receive this honor. The first two students were from Aspaas' time at Utah State University, and the last three, including Akers are from VCU.

"Geography at VCU is up and coming, and I hope the program will encourage other students to venture out and learn more about the world as I have," said Akers.

For 21 years the National Geographic Society has invited geography and cartography students from American universities to intern at Society headquarters in Washington, D.C. This year, NGS selected 32 interns from a highly competitive process involving 114 applicants. The interns will be given opportunities to interact with people involved in NGS' various departments and the many aspects of the Society�s business including writers, photographers and explorers. 

"I feel very honored to become part of such a reputable and worldly employer as NGS," said Akers. "I also know that the prestige and learning experiences gained by interning at National Geographic will prove invaluable for career opportunities and future goals."

A resident of Radford, Va., Akers graduated from Pulaski County High School in 1999.

When she graduates from VCU, she says she hopes to land a geography related job in a large city or attend graduate school. Akers also wants to travel extensively through her career, live overseas and work with a diverse group of people and an employer that will provide an enjoyable and exciting work environment. Akers will graduate from VCU this May with a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies.