Summer 2025 Natural Resource Management Interns
Isaliz Baez-Peneto
Isaliz is a part-time student at UF pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. Her passion for wildlife was sparked by volunteering at a wildlife sanctuary in Homestead, Florida, and by her lifelong role model, Steve Irwin. Both inspired her through their dedication to protecting and caring for animals. She’s excited to gain hands-on skills through this internship, especially in applying techniques to help preserve Florida’s ecosystems. In her free time, she enjoys trail walks with her dogs.
Ryleigh Chisler
Ryleigh is an upcoming senior and transfer at UF studying Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. As a deaf student, she advocates for disability inclusion and representation in conservation, with a growing interest in the human dimensions of the field. Recently, Ryleigh has also taken an interest in herpetology, particularly snakes, and looks forward to applying her knowledge to habitat restoration and land management. Outside of academics, she enjoys hiking, spending time with her cat, helping others whenever possible, and hanging out with friends.
Sofia First
Sofia is a fourth-year Natural Resource Conservation student at the University of Florida. Born and raised in St. Petersburg, FL, she aims to build a career in habitat restoration, driven by a deep interest in botany. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, cooking, yoga, and spending time with her family, friends, and dog. She has always been interested in sustainable living and conservation and is looking forward to this opportunity to work with ACT!
Cate Hancock
Cate Hancock is studying Forest Resources and Conservation at the University of Florida. She is passionate about spending time outside and finds her own enjoyment outdoors through cycling, climbing, and camping. She is especially excited to learn about managing lands for public use, but can’t wait to spend the summer with ACT!
Drew Kent
Drew is a third year student at U.F. Working towards a B.S. in Environmental Science. He is from the Tampa Bay area and wants to pursue a career in environmental and land use law. He is excited to learn about the work that goes into protecting and conserving the natural beauty of Florida, and looks forward to gaining hands-on experience in land management. In his spare time he enjoys fishing, exploring nature, going to the gym, and spending time with his friends.
Isaac Clark
Isaac is a senior at the University of Florida studying Natural Resource Conservation with a minor in Wildlife Ecology and Management. He grew up in Alachua County and has always loved exploring wild Florida. He’s an avid herper and spends a lot of his free time outside looking for rare snakes. Isaac is especially interested in prescribed fire and how it’s used to manage and restore habitat.
Madeline Franco
Madeline is a rising junior at the University of Florida majoring in Environmental Science. She grew up in Palm Harbor, Florida where her love for coastal ecosystems and wildlife began. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, drawing, baking, reading, and volunteering at local park cleanups. She hopes to implement the skills and knowledge she learns with ACT to pursue a career in conservation and share her passion for the natural world.
Chase Wild
Chase is a senior at Florida Gulf Coast University majoring in Environmental Education. He grew up in Naples, Florida, where he developed a strong interest in local ecosystems and wildlife. Chase enjoys spending time outdoors and learning about nature. His hobbies include camping, birding, and watching nature documentaries. Through this internship, he hopes to gain hands-on experience while building skills for a career in wildlife conservation.
