Zoo InternQuest is a seven-week career exploration program for San Diego County high school juniors and seniors. Students have the unique opportunity to meet professionals working for the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, and Institute for Conservation Research, learn about their jobs, and then blog about their experience online. Follow their adventures here on the Zoo’s website!
Hello! My name is McKinna, and I am currently a senior in high school. Growing up in Southern California, and more importantly near the beach, has always reinforced my love for nature. Because of all of these surrounding climates and ecosystems, I have been enthralled with the never-ending exploration of wildlife. When I started high school, the impending “what do you want to do with your life” question came up more and more, so I began looking towards my passions to find my answer.
Like many animal lovers, I’ve been fascinated with animals since I was a kid, hence why I’ve always come to the zoo. Because of this interest, I have traveled near and far to get more involved. One way I explored my passion for animal conservation was through volunteering at the San Diego Zoo through a program called Zoo Corps. There, I got to educate the public about the conservation efforts of the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park. This increased my knowledge of not only conservation efforts, but also gave me extensive information about the animals we all love. This helped me realize my passion on a deeper level, but I wanted to do more, so I had the opportunity to intern through the Ocean Institute in Dana Point. There, I learned more about marine animals and how to take care of them. However, my involvement doesn’t end there.
My dedication to animals and conservation empowered me to travel to Thailand over the summer to get to know and love one of my favorite animals: the Asian elephant. While in Thailand, I stayed at a conservation center that educated me about the importance of animal welfare and helping endangered species in whatever way we can.
These experiences supported me with more hands-on learning, but because I enjoyed every opportunity, I was unsure about precisely what I wanted to study for both my academic and professional careers. Therefore, I applied to the InternQuest program, and thankfully, have been given the chance to explore these career options! I am extremely eager to begin this internship and become even more involved with my local zoo.
Mckinna
Fall Session 2018
