Learn about our former interns experience
My 8-month internship as Chacruna’s Development and Operations Intern has been an incredibly transformative experience. It has not only provided me with valuable practical knowledge but also allowed me to connect with and learn from an amazing team of people. Before this role, I was and still am a student, and I’ve always admired Chacruna’s commitment to promoting reciprocity and safeguarding sacred plants. In a field often dominated by hyper-individualized approaches to healing, Chacruna’s vision felt like a breath of fresh air. Organizing and participating in Chacruna’s annual conference in San Francisco, Psychedelic Culture 2025, has been the highlight of my experience.
— Nico Gusac, former Chacruna’s Development and Operations Intern
My time at Chacruna as IRI Support Intern has been incredibly enriching. It’s provided me with a space to engage deeply with complex issues, where challenging conversations are welcomed, and personal growth is encouraged. Here, I’ve had the opportunity to question assumptions, confront biases, and learn from a team that embodies humility, openness, and passion. Working with the IRI team has inspired me to reflect on my own values and how I can align them more closely with my work. The trust and freedom I’ve been given to explore ideas — along with the collective support to be open to vulnerability — has been empowering. I’m grateful to have been part of such a thoughtful, transformative community and excited to continue contributing to this important work.
— Marta Camagna, former Indigenous Reciprocity Initiative Intern
Serving as the Membership Support Intern at Chacruna has been an invaluable experience that enabled me to expand my knowledge and develop a diverse skill set. The opportunity to grow both personally and professionally empowered me to build confidence, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of the field. This experience has taught me the importance of diversity, responsibility, justice, equity, and inclusion—values that are essential not only for fostering a supportive and thriving community, but also for ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and respected in spaces of growth and transformation. I am grateful for the chance to contribute to such an impactful organization whose mission and vision play such a crucial role in promoting the well-being of the psychedelic and plant medicine community!
— Lucette Hazoume, former Membership Support Intern
My time as a Social Media and Content Production Intern was truly transformative. It provided me with the opportunity to work alongside passionate, talented individuals who are deeply committed to advancing meaningful work in the psychedelic space. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to take on new challenges, expand my skillset, and grow both personally and professionally. From crafting compelling content to engaging with important conversations about cultural reciprocity and justice, every task was a learning experience. I’m deeply grateful for the chance to contribute to such impactful work and to be part of a community dedicated to amplifying Indigenous voices and protecting sacred traditions.
— Miles Perez, former Social Media and Content Production Intern
As Chacruna’s Membership Support Intern, I was always offered support, respect, and excellent guidance that encouraged me to grow as a member of the team, as well as an individual. I was given the opportunity to integrate my ideas into the department, attend important meetings, register for classes and workshops, and meet with some of our incredible members to discuss and represent Chacruna’s mission. Additionally, as a student, the staff at Chacruna were very understanding of my time constraints and uplifted my personal/professional interests. My experience here has inspired me to continue volunteering even after the completion of my internship. I highly recommend enrolling, especially for students who are looking for comprehensive and community-oriented work that helps to uplift and preserve the original voices in this blooming field!
— Io Hickman-Schriner, former Membership Support Intern
Working as a Social Media and Content Production Intern with Chacruna Institute has been an incredibly enriching experience. I’ve had the opportunity to engage with the vibrant community surrounding plant medicines and contribute to meaningful conversations about cultural reciprocity and justice. This role has not only enhanced my skills in content creation and social media management but has also deepened my appreciation for the vital role of Indigenous knowledge in contemporary discussions. I’m grateful for the chance to be part of such an impactful organization!
— Giorgina Bononi, former Social Media and Content Production Intern
As a former Social Media and Content Production intern, I have nothing but positive words to reflect my time spent working with the Chacruna team. I had the opportunity to collaborate with some brilliant minds and was treated with the utmost respect and professionalism throughout my internship. The responsibilities I took on were both fulfilling and instrumental in helping me develop my technical skills. I was also able to expand my knowledge on the various topics that the Chacruna Institute focuses on. I highly recommend this internship to any student or professional looking to gain industry-relevant experience, enhance their skill set, and connect with a network of passionate individuals dedicated to impactful work.
— Michael Miarecki, former Social Media and Content Production Intern
