I liked how inclusive and involvement everyone was.
What I wish was different
More in depth training, especially for those who have never handled money.
Advice
You can always ask for help.
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Native Plant and Horticulture Intern
May - August 2020 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
I loved being able to be outside all day, getting my hands dirty, and learning many different plants. I got to work with one other intern, the supervisors were great, and there were many volunteers I got to know. I was fortunate to learn many skills like nursery production, wetland restoration, and leadership.
What I wish was different
I wish I got to learn the decision process behind restoring a wetland.
Advice
Be ready to learn everyday.
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Educator
May - August 2019 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
Working with students of all ages and focusing on environmental education and conservation was incredibly rewarding. The workplace was enjoyable, there was a lot of support from coworkers, and having the opportunity to work with animals and bring them into the classroom for the kids is a very unique and exciting opportunity.
What I wish was different
I wish that the zoo overall was able to expand and provide more long term career options. After the summer programs wrapped up, the education team shrinks considerably and even most of the "year-round" positions are either part-time or seasonal and are lower-paying hourly positions. Finding a full-time career there is exceptionally difficult and makes it stressful if you don't know what you're doing after the season ends.
Advice
You will learn to be outgoing and have a big personality even if you don't start the job that way. Part of the training is to help move you out of your comfort zone, but once you start working with the kids and the other educators, you can't help but to adopt that kind of personality while you're at work.
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Summer Camp Instructor
May - August 2019 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
The opportunity to work full time at the zoo over the summer, being able to work with and handle animals, and making a ton of new friends.
What I wish was different
Pay wasn't great, but that's not surprising because it is a non profit, you don't get much more than a week off.
Advice
Know your entire summer schedule for the interview- only vacations mentioned during the interview get approved.
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Zoo
May 2019 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
I like that everyday you get to meet new people and make the experience fun for the children and the parents.
What I wish was different
It’s a good environment, I would wish anything to be different.
Advice
Be open to meeting people from all over the world, don’t be afraid to get out there and be yourself.
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CREW intern
May - August 2019 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
The hands on research experience
What I wish was different
A higher starting pay
Advice
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Retail Sales Associate
April - August 2018 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
Lots of perks and fun coworkers
What I wish was different
Managers were not so great
Advice
Don't underestimate the importance of good management
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Plant Intern
June - August 2018 • Cincinnati, OH
What I liked
It was a great opportunity to learn and give back to the conservation biology community. Part of my work involved working in a UC lab, so it was nice being able to walk to work.
What I wish was different
There was no required work presentation (symposium, poster, etc.) required at the end, which would have been a nice addition to my resume.
Advice
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Also, make friends with the other interns!
