AmeriCorps member and former Girl Scout, Maya Hoffman, works at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park just south of Gainesville, Florida.
What inspired you to work in the parks and recreation field?
I love nature and wanted to give back to the community. I want future generations to be able to enjoy and learn about the parks.
Describe your job in the Florida Park Service. What are the favorite parts of your job?
I work for the Florida Conservation Corps-AmeriCorps program. We manage 65 members throughout 25 state parks. I love being able to visit the parks and see what our members are doing. I also work alongside them, treating plants and doing interpretive programs.
How did your participation in Girl Scouts prepare you for your career?
As a Girl Scout, I learned about camping, nature, Leave No Trace principles, plants and animals. We would camp or do activities in state parks in Pennsylvania. I also learned how to interact with other people with different backgrounds.
What advice would you offer to young women who want to pursue a career in parks and recreation?
Volunteer at a park. Visit many different parks, since they are all different.
