Jessica Prichard has wanted to intern with the City of Maryland Heights for a long time—ever since the Lindenwood University student started her studies in recreation administration.

Prichard is one of several interns working for the City of Maryland Heights this summer. While Prichard will work with the parks and recreation department, other departments like community development will also have some intern help.

A summer working concessions in a Jennings park inspired Prichard to pursue parks and recreation as a career. Since then she’s earned an associate’s degree from St. Louis Community College—Florissant Valley and joined Lindenwood’s recreation administration program.

She said Lindenwood’s program is around four or five years old, with two full time faculty members.

Prichard has a few ties to Maryland Heights—her grandmother once lived in the city, she said. Plus her doctor’s office is in town. She said Maryland Heights is the size of a city she would like to work for after graduating.

One of her responsibilities as an intern was preparing for the Father's Day activities at Aquaport. She said she was coordinating games and sign-ups for Sunday's event.

One of her favorite aspects of the city is its dog park.

“I really think it’s awesome that there’s a Dogport,” she said.