Empowering the Next Generation: Celebrating Our 2024–2025 SFSU College Corps Interns
- Melissa Marazas
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
At Planet Bee Foundation, we believe that environmental education is most impactful when it’s driven by collaboration, curiosity, and real-world experience. That’s why partnering with San Francisco State University’s 2024–2025 College Corps interns was such a powerful match. Through California’s #CaliforniansForAll College Corps initiative, these dedicated students joined us to serve their communities while developing their own skills and career goals. From leading hands-on STEM lessons to supporting sustainability efforts with local farmers and beekeepers, their contributions were woven into every corner of our programming. More than just interns, they became part of our hive—helping us expand our reach, innovate our approach, and inspire future changemakers.
Each intern brought a distinct perspective, set of skills, and passion for environmental action—making their impact as diverse as it was meaningful. Whether developing educational materials, supporting live events, or assisting with data and outreach, they embraced every opportunity to learn and lead. Below, we’re excited to spotlight each of these future changemakers, share highlights from their projects, and reflect on the valuable insights they gained during their time with Planet Bee.
Fran Cu-Pyun
“What left the deepest impression on me during my time at Planet Bee was the sense of support in a community rooted in care, curiosity, and purpose. Each task and the challenges following it manifested my understanding of how even small acts can ripple outward,” Fran shared. Whether she was contributing to pollinator education, supporting farmers through the BIPOC grant program, or simply lending a hand, Fran found meaning in every moment.
She highlighted the ICCE ceremony as one of her most cherished memories—“the first moment in my life to be seated and surrounded at a table FULL of women and the other badass women at Planet Bee that couldn't be there.” Her experience with Planet Bee inspired her deeply and reminded her that everyday actions, done collectively, can make the world a better place. “I’ll carry forward and strive to share what makes them a positive influence with others as I grow.”
Kristel Dabandan
“A part of me has always had a love for environmental science, but never knew how to articulate the feeling,” Kristel said. Her journey with Planet Bee began when she came across an internship posting and took a leap. She soon found herself immersed in meaningful work—developing a Mentee Beekeeping Manual, helping to administer the CFDA Grant for BIPOC farmers, and distributing Seedball Stewardship Kits to schools across the country.
Kristel’s biggest takeaway? “Don’t be afraid of trying something out of your comfort zone. Be okay with learning from others and take those lessons with you.” This mindset helped her grow both personally and professionally. She graduated college and soon after landed her first full-time role as a Client Service & Relations Specialist for The Urban Leaf Co. Reflecting on her journey, she offered a quote that speaks to her time with Planet Bee: “Where life plants you, bloom with grace.”
Julia Garcia Herrera
“Planet Bee showed me that science is not just knowledge, it’s a language of care, and when we teach it with love and intention, we build bridges that last a lifetime,” Julia reflected. Drawn to Planet Bee’s mission of inclusivity and environmental justice, she translated and adapted Planet Bee’s Beeyond HarvestED curriculum into Spanish, making it accessible for bilingual students.
Her role expanded beyond translation—she created sentence starters for English Language Learners, designed educational materials on Canva, and supported in-person events. “Planet Bee gave me more than professional experience, it gave me a sense of belonging. I learned that small actions can ripple outward and uplift entire communities.” Looking ahead, Julia envisions a future where she blends science, storytelling, and service—whether as a park ranger, education specialist, or something entirely new. Wherever she lands, she’ll carry Planet Bee’s lessons with her.
Kat Powell
Kat's experience at Planet Bee was unexpected but transformational. “The truth is, I did not choose this. I want to make this distinction because I am deeply grateful that I was offered Planet Bee, and the surprises it led me to make me not want to worry about what I choose or not choose in future endeavors.”
Kat’s capstone project focused on Coding for Conservation, an innovative curriculum that teaches K–12 students how to collect and analyze environmental data through programming. “Students get to explore a novel engineering process while learning how to make scientific predictions,” she explained.
From honey harvesting to seed ball making and teaching software skills to students, Kat embraced every challenge with enthusiasm. “Planet Bee has taught me to accept new challenges, embrace my fears, and that community is what matters most.” As for what’s next? “That’s the beauty of software engineering – I really have no idea… I don’t want to worry about the destination — I want to see where my path takes me.”
A Lasting Impact: Honoring Their Contributions and Looking Ahead
These four interns left their mark not only on Planet Bee but on the communities and students they served. Their journeys are a testament to the power of education, curiosity, and service—and we can’t wait to see how they continue to pollinate change in the world.
To our 2024–2025 SFSU College Corps interns: thank you for your brilliance, heart, and dedication. You’ve shown us what the next generation of environmental leaders looks like—and the future is bright.
