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!
Living in San Diego for my entire life has influenced my love of animals greatly. Though I have had a fondness for the furry since infanthood, the privilege of being able to visit San Diego’s Zoo, Safari Park, and Sea World has resulted in an even stronger attraction to animals. I have been lucky enough to get hands-on with dolphins, observe the majestic and rare Amur Leopard cubs, and see just how fast a cheetah can run.
Aside from animals, my other passions include SCUBA diving, reading, and baking delicious, sugary desserts. At school, my favorite classes are AP English and AP Psychology, both of which I find fascinating. When I am not studying, I can be found being a complete dork with my friends, in the pool swimming some laps, or giving some much-deserved love to my two cats. About once a month I take a day off from the outside world to spend time with my beloved family, consisting of my parents, grandparents, and many younger cousins.
As I have watched my cousins grow up, it has been interesting to observe multiple personalities considering their future. When we are little we form ever-changing opinions on what we want to be when we are all grown up. Though many kids dream of being veterinarians, firefighters, and doctors, my first dream job was a “shark scientist”. As a junior in high school, I am constantly asked what I will pursue for a “real” career. One of the many reasons I am so eager to join the Zoo’s InternQuest program is the fact that I do not know the answer to that question. What I do know, however, is that I have always loved animals, and wish to some day integrate them into my career, and I hope that InternQuest will help guide me toward a decision.
I can hardly wait for my fall internship to start, and I hope you will be able to enjoy my experiences over the next seven weeks as much as I will through my blogs and pictures!
Keira
Fall 2012
