American Fisheries Society Hutton Junior Fisheries

Name: American Fisheries Society Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

Award Amount: Varies (paid summer internship stipend plus travel and housing support)

Information And Eligibility:
The American Fisheries Society (AFS) Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is a nationally recognized education and career-pathway initiative designed to introduce high school students to the field of fisheries biology and aquatic science. The program focuses on increasing diversity, inclusion, and representation within the fisheries profession by providing hands-on, paid summer experiences for students who may not otherwise have access to career exploration opportunities in natural resource sciences.

Rather than a traditional tuition-based scholarship, the Hutton Program functions as a structured internship and mentorship experience. Selected students are matched with professional fisheries biologists across the United States and participate in real-world fieldwork, research activities, and conservation projects. These experiences may include fish population surveys, habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, hatchery operations, data collection, and ecological research. Through direct mentorship, students gain a practical understanding of what a career in fisheries biology looks like while developing scientific skills and professional confidence.

The program is especially focused on supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds, including those from racial or ethnic minority groups, low-income households, or communities with limited exposure to environmental science careers. Students do not need prior experience in fisheries or biology to apply—curiosity, motivation, and willingness to learn are strongly valued. The program helps participants build early career networks and prepares them for future college study in fisheries biology, ecology, environmental science, wildlife management, or related STEM fields.

Participants receive a paid stipend for their summer work, and many placements include assistance with housing, transportation, and travel expenses when necessary. By removing financial and logistical barriers, the Hutton Program ensures students can fully engage in the experience without cost concerns.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a high school student enrolled in grades 10–12 at the time of application.
• Must be at least 16 years old by the start of the internship.
• Open to students from underrepresented or underserved backgrounds.
• Must have an interest in fisheries biology, aquatic science, conservation, or environmental careers.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States.

Application Requirements:

• Complete the official Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program application.
• Submit a personal statement explaining interest in fisheries, conservation, or aquatic science.
• Provide academic information and school enrollment verification.
• Submit letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors.
• Participate in interviews or placement matching if selected.

Additional Details:

• The program typically runs during the summer months.
• Participants work directly with professional fisheries scientists as mentors.
• Students gain exposure to college-level science and natural resource careers.
• Completion of the program strengthens college applications and STEM resumes.
• Many alumni go on to pursue degrees and careers in fisheries, wildlife, or environmental sciences.

Deadline: January

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