Name: Krishna Chaitanya

Pronouns: He/Him

Semester of Internship: Spring 2026

Major: Geographical Information Systems 

Current Class Level: Masters Student 

This semester I completed a(n)...: Internship

Internship, Co-op, or Research Site (Company/Organization Name): Baltimore Green Justice Workers Cooperative 

Location of the Organization (City, State): Baltimore, Maryland

Title of position: GIS Fellow 

Tell us about your internship, co-op, or research opportunity, including your day-to-day responsibilities:

I am working as a GIS Fellow supporting community organizations in Baltimore. My role is to create GIS StoryMaps that highlight community conditions, environmental issues, and the work these organizations are doing in their neighborhoods. On a daily basis, I collect and organize data such as environmental hazards, vacant properties, community resources, and 311 service requests. I analyze this information and create maps and StoryMaps that clearly show patterns and community needs. I also work closely with the organizations to understand their priorities and present their work and impact through maps that can support community awareness and decision-making.

Describe the process of obtaining your position. When did you hear of the position and submit your application?

I first heard about the position through Handshake and applied last summer. I joined the organization as an unpaid intern and worked on a few GIS-related projects during that time. After the summer, the organization applied for AGU's Thriving Earth Exchange Cohort and was selected. Following that, I was brought back in October to continue working with the team. Since then, I have been supporting their work by doing spatial analysis, helping with GIS workshops for their staff and stakeholders, and preparing maps and StoryMaps that show community conditions and the impact of their work.

What resources did you use to find your current experience?

Handshake 

What have you enjoyed the most about your position and organization?

What I have enjoyed most about my position is working with data in a way that supports community organizations and residents. I collect, analyze, and present data on maps for the organization and the communities they serve. I enjoy turning data into maps because it makes information easier to understand and supports planning and decision making. I also appreciate being involved in the full process, from planning the work to analyzing the data, creating the maps, and presenting the results. Another meaningful part of this work is that it relates to environmental and climate justice, and the maps and analysis I produce can be useful for the organization and community residents.

How do you believe you have made an impact through your work?

My work helps turn community data into clear visuals that people can easily understand. By mapping local conditions and resources, I help the organization and community members see what is happening in their neighborhoods and support efforts to improve environmental and community well-being.

What advice would you give to another student who is seeking an internship or similar experience?

Be open to learning and take initiative when opportunities come your way. Even small experiences can help you build skills and lead to bigger opportunities later.

Please provide a short reflection or quote about what you liked most about your position / earning internship credit / working with the Career Center.

"I appreciated the support the Career Center provides to students. Through career fairs, networking events, and opportunities shared on Handshake, it becomes easier to connect with organizations and find internships. Their tips on social media, podcasts, and informative videos are also helpful for learning about career paths and preparing for opportunities."