Emily Sierra-Uriostegui Experiences Blossoming Internship At JC Raulston Arboretum

MOUNT OLIVE – As the summer sun rises over Raleigh, NC, University of Mount Olive (UMO) senior Emily Sierra-Uriostegui begins her day surrounded by vibrant blooms, lush greenery, and the hum of nature at the JC Raulston Arboretum. For Emily, this internship is far more than just a summer job—it’s a meaningful step toward a lifelong passion rooted deeply in both her academic studies and personal journey.

A Benson resident and South Johnston High School graduate, Sierra Uriostequi, enrolled at UMO in the fall of 2022. She was attracted to the University’s School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences, its smaller class sizes, and its close-knit campus community. “I knew I would focus more on a smaller class setting and build strong relationships with my professors and classmates,” she shared.

Those strong relationships have played a key role in her academic success. As a plant science major, Sierra-Uriostegui credits professors Dr. Jennifer Bradley and Dr. Matthew Tilley for providing valuable mentorship. She also points to coursework in horticulture methods, crop science, integrated pest management, and nursery management for equipping her with the knowledge and confidence to excel in her internship.

“The coursework at UMO taught me essential skills in pruning, propagating, and planting,” she said. “My student worker experience at UMO’s arboretum also expanded my abilities and prepared me for this opportunity.”

Her journey to the JC Raulston Arboretum internship began at the North Carolina Nursery & Landscape Association’s Green & Growin’ event. There, she connected with industry professionals who recognized her enthusiasm for plant science and encouraged her to apply for the internship opportunity.

Now fully immersed in the daily work of the 10-acre arboretum, Sierra-Uriostegui embraces the variety that each day brings. Morning duties include watering, opening public facilities, and preparing garden spaces for visitors and special events such as weddings. Afternoons often involve tasks such as pruning, mulching, mowing, propagating, and maintaining equipment. She especially enjoys collaborating with the garden’s many volunteers. “They are nice people, and I enjoy talking to them while we work,” she noted.

Among the plants she cares for, Sierra-Uriostegui has developed a fondness for the arboretum’s collection of Japanese maples, drawn to their striking colors and delicate leaf shapes.

“Hibiscus blooms,” she says, “are a personal favorite for their beauty, while roses have proven to be a more challenging assignment thanks to their sharp prickles.” Weeding out Northoscordum—a stubborn invasive species—has also tested her patience and persistence.

Though the physical work can be demanding, especially during hot summer days, Sierra-Uriostegui remains focused and motivated. “The biggest learning curve for me has been backing up a trailer with the golf cart or gator,” she admitted with a smile, “but I’m getting better!”

Beyond the hands-on horticultural experience, Sierra-Uriostegui’s internship has also provided valuable professional exposure. She has met individuals who have offered advice and guidance, reinforcing her aspirations for graduate school and a future career in plant pathology.

“Working at the arboretum has given me a clearer understanding of public horticulture and plant care,” she said. “It’s a stepping stone toward my long-term career goals.”

Greg Paige, Director of Horticulture at the JC Raulston Arboretum, praised Sierra-Uriostegui’s initiative and strong work ethic. “Emily is extremely capable,” Paige said. “The thing that I really like about having interns is when they’re curious—and Emily’s definitely not afraid to ask questions, which is the best way to learn. I was lucky to have an internship that helped me find my path, and I see her doing the same. She’s not afraid to jump on a piece of equipment. Just the other day, she and the other interns hand-moved five pallets of stone in one of the hottest gardens here. They knocked it out in an afternoon. During a recent symposium with over 150 guests, Emily was engaging with people—asking, learning, and representing herself and the program really well.”

Looking ahead, Sierra-Uriostegui remains motivated by her passion for plants and a desire to make a significant impact in the field. “Every experience brings me one step closer to my career goals,” she said. “I’m excited to see where this journey will take me next.”