Zoo Careers 101 (Ages 13-17)
Zoo Careers 101: An Introduction to How Zoos Work
Lots of people have dreamed of working with animals and spending their days where they can see elephants, sloths and red pandas living their best lives. The truth is it takes a ton of people from a variety of backgrounds to make a zoo successful. With Zoo Careers 101, aspiring zoo professionals will spend two whole days learning from current zoo professionals from Education, Animal Care, Veterinary Medicine and Zoo Operations! From front of house and behind the scenes, participants will learn about exhibit design, animal care/health and more. Boxed lunch is also provided each day of the program. Capacity for this popular program is limited to 18 participants aged 13-17.
Saturday, November 15 & Sunday, November 16
Participant Pricing : $276 / Members: $251 (covers both days of programming, course, materials, and lunch)
Zoo Careers 101 FAQs
Registrants will receive detailed information, including a map directing them to the designated pick-up and drop-off location. This is NOT the main entrance to the zoo. Pick-up and drop-off will be facilitated at Security Gate 5, near the Victorian Rose Garden. Late arrivals and pick-ups cannot be accommodated.
Yes! Each participant should bring snacks and a water bottle with them.
Participants with specialized diets are welcome to bring additional food/snacks to supplement the provided meals.
Participants will get closer to animals than general zoo visitors, but we cannot guarantee what, if any, touch opportunities might exist. We can guarantee that it will be extra special, and that we will surely make some memorable connections!
Yes! Participants visit various behind the scenes areas including but not limited to animal exhibits, the John J. Palumbo Veterinary Hospital, the Zoo’s Commissary.
Yes! Participants will participate in a lab program with our Veterinary Care team, prepare enrichment for animals with keepers and more.
While all public spaces at the Zoo are wheelchair accessible, most behind-the-scenes areas are not. Please contact us immediately if you have any concerns about physical accessibility or if you would like to talk about any other needs your student may have while participating in this exciting opportunity.
At this time, masks are not required for most public areas of the zoo. Masks may be required when visiting certain behind the scenes areas at the discretion of the staff veterinarians and animal care staff. Please note these policies are subject to change.