I loved that I got to experience what it would be like to work in the field that I am potentially wanting to make my permanent job. Interning and shadowing allows someone to place themselves in the shoes of another's day to day life and let you know whether you would like to do that for your future.
What I wish was different
I wish I was able to have more time instead of just the seasonal semester schedule since I enjoyed it so much. Additionally, I wish I would have asked more questions on what other type of experiences I need to work at places like the Dallas Zoo.
Advice
In any internship it is great to form relationships with your supervisors and coworkers to build your own network. This will not only want jobs to have you back, but can also provide references when applying to future career opportunities. Additionally, it is great to always build your skills by asking your supervisors what you can improve and learning from them so that your weaknesses become strengths.
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Conservation Intern
June - August 2020 • Dallas, TX
What I liked
I liked the variety of work we did and the flexibility of being partially virtual and partially in person.
What I wish was different
I wish the internship had been paid but I still really appreciated the experience.
Advice
Be ready to get your hands dirty and be flexible with your hours!
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Lead Conservation Engagement intern
May - August 2019 • Dallas, TX
What I liked
The main thing that I enjoyed was planning and coordinating my summer intern project. It was a great experience in which I planned the creation of a large pollinator garden that is currently being executed at the Zoo! I also enjoyed gaining a lot of knowledge on various endangered animals and the efforts that are being done to help them. Additionally, the Conservation Engagement Team’s enthusiasm and dedication to conservation was great.
What I wish was different
It would have been nice if the internship was paid since it took up the time that I had allotted for a paid job during the summer.
Advice
If anyone is considering pursuing an internship at the zoo, make sure you enjoy working outside and are passionate about conservation.
1
One person found this helpful
Conservation Campaign Leadership Team
May - August 2019 • Dallas, TX
What I liked
Connecting with every department in the zoo to work together to raise money for vulture conservation, while expanding my professional network opportunities. Also, shadowing zoologists.
What I wish was different
Less restrictions on social media promotion for the campaign.
Advice
There are some very important names in wildlife conservation that work at or with the Dallas Zoo. Do not be afraid to ask for help from management to connect you with people in your desired career.
1
One person found this helpful
Seasonal intern
January - April 2019 • Dallas, TX
What I liked
I liked getting hands on experience in a field that I care a lot about. Getting this opportunity will help me greatly in the future.
What I wish was different
Advice
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Zookeeper Intern
May - August 2018 • Dallas, TX
What I liked
- fully immersive experience with lots of learning opportunities
- opportunity to try different sections of the zoo for a day
- other opportunities to engage with the zoo including a conservation project and an individual project
What I wish was different
- my internship was split between two sections, and it took a long time to get a hang of everything
- there was not a lot of freedom to choose our own project
Advice
This internship is very hard. Give yourself a few weeks to get used to it before you start forming opinions about it.
