The Florida Aquarium

Education Animal Care Intern

June - August 2019 • Tampa, FL

What I liked

I got to learn about about animals and the aquarium. I also go to teach people about sea life and conservation from all over the world.

What I wish was different

I wish I got more hands on experience in animal care.

Advice

When accepting an internship, ask what the day in the life of an intern is like.

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husbandry

August 2018 • Tampa, FL

What I liked

Great learning and hands on experiences. Amazing people who love what they do.

What I wish was different

Advice

Take advantage of all their departments to explore if unsure of career since they have so many departments and options.

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Camp Counselor

June - August 2019 • Tampa, FL

What I liked

Everything, it was one of the best experiences I’ve had.

What I wish was different

I wish I had gotten paid a little more since I’m all on my own.

Advice

Come prepared because you don’t realize how much energy kids have until you’re taking care of them.

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Volunteer

October 2019 • Tampa, FL

What I liked

I loved volunteering here they really care about their volunteers and it’s been a great experience so far. The volunteer coordinator is great and responds right away!

What I wish was different

Advice

Start volunteering early and once you do for one event then it’ll be easier to get other events or even an internship.

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Husbandry Intern

June - August 2019 • Tampa, FL

What I liked

I honestly enjoyed everything about the experience. I worked with the animal ambassador team which focuses on the penguins, otters, lemurs, and interaction reptiles. I did public talks and worked my way up to animal handling and training. I loved it so much I stay on as a volunteer after my internship.

What I wish was different

I wish the internship was longer. There were so many opportunities that were limited simply because we didn't have more time.

Advice

If you are seeking a position in animal care it will not only give you networking opportunities, but it will show you the true effort it takes to be an animal care professional.

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Husbandry Volunteer

May 2018 • Tampa, FL

What I liked

I liked that I was able to experience the opening of The Florida Aquarium--the time before guests arrive. It's a different environment in that time: more peaceful. It was also a great opportunity to be working alongside with biologists and all the different, amazing animals at the facility.

What I wish was different

The only thing I wish was different in my experience is the commute there. Having to make it on time at 7:00AM and battling the traffic on I-4 was a challenge.

Advice

As you are able to work alongside biologists and other faculty that all play an important role at The Florida Aquarium, be investigative. Ask questions! The biologists and others are eager to help you learn more about our natural environment.

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Guest Services Associate

March - August 2019 • Tampa, FL

What I liked

I loved that we were in an aquarium surrounded by marine life. Additionally, I really enjoyed the support between departments. Like if I had a questions for the Education department on what I can say to briefly educate our guests, our educators were happy to help. On our guests, each individual and family came from all over the nation and all over the world. It was wonderful to make conversation because I would learn more about their unique background.

What I wish was different

I wish there was more expansion of the aquarium. As the representative state aquarium, it makes a better impression to have the largest space to explore marine life. Also, I wish there was a connection between the outdoor theatre to the main building. When there is a lightning protocol, there should be a stronger enforcement of clearing out the outdoor playground and water area.

Advice

It’s a great place to build upon your communication and collaboration skills. Our management genuinely listened to our feedback and did their best to implement any and all applicable changes.

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