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!
Hello there! My name is Danni, and I aspire to be a leading conservationist in the modern world. Motivated at a young age by John Muir, I have always enjoyed nature and wildlife. I taught myself how to ride horses at age seven, worked on my family’s cattle farm in Virginia for several years, and have been volunteering at the local animal shelter throughout high school.
While looking for a chance to experience conservation in a hands-on atmosphere, I found the San Diego Zoo’s InternQuest program. This opportunity seemed like the perfect chance for me to learn and grow as an individual and conservationist. Though I keep myself busy with horseback riding, hiking, biking, walking my dogs, and spending time with friends and family, I still wanted this internship to be part of my life. I am very excited to begin working with the top professionals in different environmental, conservation, and wildlife-based fields.
Nature cannot fight to protect itself. It is up to us—conservationists and the general public alike—to save the world’s natural beauty and balance. In return, our society will be granted inspiration and revelation. After all, in the words of William Wordsworth, “nature never did betray the heart that loved her.”
Danni
Winter Session 2012
