Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
This is an 8‑week paid summer internship and mentoring program hosted by the American Fisheries Society that connects high school students with fisheries professionals in marine or freshwater settings. Participants complete 32-hour work weeks, engaging in activities like electrofishing, habitat assessment, data analysis, and public outreach. The experience culminates in a Hutton Scholars Summit, where interns share their findings and network with peers and professionals.
Eligibility and Application Information
Applicants must be rising high school seniors or recent graduates, at least 16 years old by the start of the internship, and be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or residents of Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, or the Pacific Islands. The application is due around mid-January and includes essays, a short video, transcripts, and a reference form. Accepted students are matched with local mentors, with flexible dates agreed upon in the spring.
Pay
Interns receive a $3,000 stipend, paid in three $1,000 installments over the course of the internship. The program is fully funded, and a national summit is also covered for selected students. However, housing and local transportation are not provided, so interns must live near their mentor’s workplace.
Prestige
The Hutton Program is highly competitive, accepting just 30–35 students annually from thousands of applicants. It is nationally recognized for increasing diversity in fisheries science, with over 70% of alumni reporting increased interest in pursuing careers in environmental or biological sciences. Colleges value this experience for its real-world research, mentorship, and commitment to conservation.