Clatsop WORKS

08/26/2026

We’re so proud of the work Viola has done with Kids Make Theatre ! 😁

Viola has been the best intern! Here she is test driving an Escape Room's tunnel. It's been an eclectic summer for her for sure!

She was our first ever KMT WORKS Paid Intern, and has been absolutely fantastic. Viola was a Teaching Artist for all six of our summer camps, and is currently helping do a major post-summer clean up of the KMT space as we get ready for fall.
Kids Make Theatre would very much like to keep her with us, but, alas, she must go back to high school! We are very grateful for all of her wonderful work and support of our kids and her fellow teachers. 🎉

Kids Make Theatre
Liberty Theatre Astoria

08/06/2026

Yesterday morning we gathered to celebrate our 2026 Clatsop WORKS interns as they completed the Career Exploration portion of their summer internship experience. While many of the interns will continue working with their host employers through the rest of the summer, yesterday gave us a chance to come together, reflect, and celebrate everything they've accomplished so far.

Each intern shared highlights from their internship journey, showcasing the skills they've developed, the challenges they've tackled, and the impact they've made. Their presentations were inspiring, and the feedback from host employers has been overwhelmingly positive. It's clear these interns have made meaningful contributions and are thriving at their worksites!

It has been a privilege to work alongside this incredible group of students. Watching their confidence and professionalism grow throughout the summer has been so rewarding. We can't wait to see what they accomplish next, and we're grateful to have been part of their journey. Congratulations to our 2026 Clatsop WORKS interns!

08/04/2026

Spotlight on the Intern:
Izabelle White; Communications & Community Engagement Intern, City of Astoria City Manager's Office

Meet another outstanding intern from our Summer 2026 cohort, Izabelle White! A student at Clatsop Community College, Izabelle is spending her summer gaining valuable hands-on experience as a Communications & Community Engagement Intern with the City of Astoria City Manager's Office.

Izabelle is pursuing her studies with a focus on Political Science, a Philosophy minor, and a pre-law track. Passionate about law, public policy, and community engagement, she is eager to learn how local government serves residents and how effective communication can strengthen connections between communities and the public institutions that support them.

Throughout the summer, Izabelle has been contributing to a variety of communications and outreach projects, including leading the City's new Summer Fun Facts series. This engaging initiative highlights Astoria's rich history, notable landmarks, and the many services the City provides, helping residents and visitors learn more about the community while fostering civic engagement.

As Izabelle shares:
"I was interested in this internship because I want to gain hands-on experience in professional environments that complement my studies as a Political Science major with a Philosophy minor and pre-law focus. I am particularly drawn to opportunities that allow me to support programs, events, or community engagement initiatives, develop organizational and communication skills, and work directly with people in meaningful ways."

Through her internship, Izabelle is building professional communication, organization, and public engagement skills while gaining firsthand insight into the important work of local government. Her experience is helping her connect her academic interests with meaningful, real-world applications and preparing her for a future in law, public policy, or public service.

We're proud to have thoughtful and community-minded students like Izabelle participating in the Clatsop WORKS Internship Program. Her enthusiasm for civic engagement, commitment to serving others, and passion for public policy make her a wonderful representative of the next generation of leaders. We can't wait to see where her education and career journey take her!

08/04/2026

Spotlight on the Intern:
Rogelio Ruiz Buckman; Food Science Research Intern, Oregon State University's Seafood Laboratory

Curious, dedicated, and driven by a passion for marine science, meet Rogelio Ruiz Buckman, an outstanding Summer 2026 intern! Rogelio is an Astoria High School graduate, a current student at Clatsop Community College, and is spending his summer as a Food Science Research Intern with Oregon State University's Seafood Laboratory in Astoria.

Rogelio has long been fascinated by marine biology and has intentionally shaped his educational journey around that passion. While attending Astoria High School, he volunteered with the Astoria Marine Science Program, gaining valuable hands-on experience that reinforced his interest in the field. After completing his transfer degree at Clatsop Community College, he plans to continue his education at Oregon State University, where he will pursue a degree in Marine Biology.

This summer, Rogelio is contributing to innovative research at the OSU Seafood Lab through the fish bone project, which explores how ground fish bone can be utilized as a natural source of calcium and phosphates. By participating in applied food science research, he is gaining firsthand experience with scientific methods while helping explore sustainable ways to maximize the use of marine resources.

As Rogelio shares:
"I have always had a particular interest in marine biology, and have taken many classes and planned my time in college according to a focus on a biology transfer to future colleges. This is what led to me aiding in my high school's hatchery program, and continues to affect the courses I take in college to build on that focus."

Rogelio's commitment to learning through hands-on research and his dedication to marine science make him an excellent example of how internships can help students connect their education with meaningful career experiences. The skills he is developing this summer—from research techniques and laboratory practices to collaboration and problem-solving—will serve him well as he continues toward a career studying and protecting our marine ecosystems.

We're grateful to Oregon State University's Seafood Laboratory for providing meaningful research opportunities that inspire the next generation of scientists. We look forward to seeing all that Rogelio accomplishes as he continues his education and works toward a future in marine biology!
Astoria School District

08/04/2026

Spotlight on the Intern:
Brenna Lee; Food Science Research Intern, Oregon State University's Seafood Laboratory

We are thrilled to welcome back intern Brenna Lee for her second Clatsop WORKS internship!

A proud graduate of Seaside High School, Brenna has already demonstrated an outstanding commitment to leadership, service, and scientific exploration. During high school, she was the Co-founder of the Ridgeline Outdoors Club, served as Vice President and Secretary of Key Club, Secretary of National Honor Society, and represented her peers on the District Equity Advisory Committee as a Student Representative. This fall, she will attend Dartmouth College on the prestigious full four-year QuestBridge Scholarship, where she plans to major in Biological Sciences with a minor in Public Policy.

Brenna's journey with Clatsop WORKS began when she interned with the Wildlife Center of the North Coast, gaining valuable experience in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation. This summer, she has returned to expand her scientific knowledge as a Food Science Research Intern with OSU Seafood Lab. Her primary research project focuses on the shrimp oil project, exploring how shrimp oils can be harnessed as dietary supplements and contributing to innovative research in food science and sustainability.

Brenna is passionate about science, ecology, and sustainability, and she hopes to build a career that bridges scientific research and public policy. She is excited to learn not only how research is conducted, but also how scientific discoveries can be communicated effectively to influence policy and improve communities.

As Brenna shares:
"I plan on working in both science and policy and would specifically like to learn how to conduct research and communicate findings. I applied because an internship in a science or policy-related field would provide me with valuable knowledge and equip me with the skills I need to succeed in my future."

Watching Brenna return after her successful experience with the Wildlife Center is a wonderful reminder of what the Clatsop WORKS Internship Program is all about—providing students with opportunities to build on their interests, gain hands-on experience, and develop the professional skills that prepare them for college and meaningful careers. We can't wait to see the impact Brenna will make as she continues her education and pursues a future where science and public policy work together to create a more sustainable world.

Congratulations, Brenna! We are proud to have you representing Clatsop WORKS once again and look forward to following your incredible journey!
Seaside High School

08/04/2026

Spotlight on the Intern:
Anne Bigda; Barista & Small Business Intern, Caffe Latte

Exploring career possibilities, gaining real-world experience, and building valuable workplace skills, that's what Summer 2026 internships are all about! Meet Anne Bigda, an Astoria High School student who will be a junior this fall and is spending her summer as a Barista & Small Business Intern with Caffe Latte in the Seaside Carousel Mall, a locally owned coffee shop in downtown Seaside. Through this internship, Anne is gaining hands-on experience in customer service while learning what it takes to operate a successful small business.

Anne has a passion for musical theater and music education and plans to study music after graduating from high school. While her future may be in the performing arts or the classroom, she recognized the importance of developing strong employability skills that will benefit her in any career. By participating in a Clatsop WORKS internship, Anne is building confidence, strengthening her communication skills, and gaining meaningful work experience that will serve her well wherever her path leads.

As Anne shares:
"I decided a retail internship would be beneficial to me to grow and build my skills in interacting with the public."

Throughout the summer, Anne has been learning from experienced professionals while serving customers, working as part of a team, and developing the communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills that employers value in every industry. Her experience at Caffe Latte is helping her discover how workplace skills learned in one setting can translate to success in countless future careers.

Career exploration is about more than choosing a profession—it's about building confidence, trying new experiences, and preparing for the future. Anne is making the most of every opportunity to learn and grow, and we're excited to see where her talents and ambitions take her. A huge thank you to Caffe Latte for investing in local students through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. We wish Anne continued success as she develops new skills, pursues her passion for music, and builds a bright future!
Astoria School District

08/03/2026

Spotlight on the Intern:
Ryleigh Selvy; Barista & Small Business Intern, Caffe Latte

Exploring career possibilities, building workplace skills, and discovering new passions—that's what Summer 2026 internships are all about! Meet Ryleigh Selvy, a recent Seaside High School graduate who is spending her summer as a Barista & Small Business Intern with Caffe Latte in the Seaside Carousel Mall, a locally owned coffee shop in downtown Seaside. Through this internship, Ryleigh is gaining valuable customer service experience while learning what it takes to operate a successful small business.

Ryleigh has interests in business, graphic design, and cosmetology, and she applied for a Clatsop WORKS internship to explore potential career paths before deciding on her next steps. Working alongside the team at Caffe Latte has given her the opportunity to strengthen her communication skills, serve customers, and gain firsthand insight into the day-to-day operations of a thriving local business. Even more inspiring, Caffe Latte's current owner was once an employee of the shop herself—a testament to the opportunities that can grow from hard work and dedication.

As Ryleigh shares:
"I felt an internship would help me develop more customer service and communication skills."

This fall, Ryleigh is considering staying close to home to continue her education by taking courses at Clatsop Community College while she continues exploring the career path that's right for her. Her employer has been so impressed with her enthusiasm and work ethic that they're hoping she'll stay on as part of the Caffe Latte team after her internship concludes!

Career exploration is about trying new experiences, building confidence, and discovering where your talents can take you. Ryleigh is embracing every opportunity to learn, grow, and prepare for her future, and we're excited to see where her journey leads. A huge thank you to Caffe Latte for investing in the next generation by providing meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for local students. We wish Ryleigh continued success as she explores her interests, develops new skills, and creates a bright future!
Seaside High School

08/03/2026

Spotlight on the Intern:
Chantrell Lee; Media & Communications Intern, Oregon State University's Coastal Oregon Marine Experimentation Station

We are thrilled to welcome back intern Chantrell Lee for her second Clatsop WORKS internship!

A proud graduate of Seaside High School, Chantrell has already built an impressive record of leadership and service. During high school, she served as President of Key Club and the Ridgeline Outdoor Club, while also participating in National Honor Society and Future Business Leaders of America. This fall, she will attend Smith College on the prestigious full four-year QuestBridge Scholarship, where she plans to pursue her passion for environmental science and conservation.

Adding to an already remarkable year, Chantrell is also the 2025 Astoria Regatta Queen, a scholarship program that celebrates Astoria's rich maritime history while empowering and recognizing young women in our community.

This summer, Chantrell is serving as a Media & Communications Intern with OSU's Coastal Oregon Marine Experimentation Station at the OSU Seafood Lab, where she is helping communicate important research, education, and outreach efforts that support Oregon's coastal communities and marine ecosystems.

Chantrell's passion lies at the intersection of environmental science, conservation, and environmental law. She hopes to bridge the gap between science and public policy, ensuring that scientific research informs meaningful environmental action.

As Chantrell shares:
"I want to build a life dedicated to environmental stewardship and explore the world scientifically. I hope to contribute to conservation efforts by launching a non-profit called the 'Clean Water Collective.' This organization will focus on conservation and education. We will do habitat restoration and spend each month advertising and raising money for a different coastal species."

Watching Chantrell return for a second internship after her successful 2024 internship with Haystack Rock Awareness Program is a wonderful reminder of what the Clatsop WORKS Internship Program is all about—helping students explore careers, develop professional skills, and take meaningful steps toward achieving ambitious goals. We can't wait to see the impact she will make as she continues her educational journey and works toward protecting our natural world.

Congratulations, Chantrell! We are proud to have you representing Clatsop WORKS once again and look forward to following your incredible journey!
Seaside High School

07/31/2026

Nice!!! 😁

07/31/2026

Awwww!!!! 😍