With the beginning of the new school year, Zoo Academy students make an effort to explore new opportunities provided by the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Shadowing is an involved experience that committed and passionate students get to take on, that includes many chances to get involved in the Zoo’s many ways to explore student’s interests.
Senior Kaitlyn Frank is a member of the academy, and hopes to continue with a career in veterinary medicine and science after her time at the Zoo. Shadowing allows these students to get hands-on experience to advance their skill sets in order to prepare them for the future.
“I chose Zoo Academy because I wanted something different outside of my home high school that allowed me to make more connections,” Frank said. “These are connections I wouldn’t be able to make anywhere else and am very grateful to have this type of opportunity.”
Academy students get to explore every type of environment within the zoo, fueling their passion for the future. For students interested in Zoology, there are opportunities such as shadowing for Hoof-stock, Aquarium fish and birds, and many more.
“You and your keeper work together about learning for your animal, knowing when to feed them, cleaning the exhibit, and also tying the aspect of how you can benefit the shadowing area yourself,” senior Izzy Davis said.
For many students, Zoo academy is what is going to lead them to pursuing something they are passionate about in the future. The application process for this academy begins as a sophomore, and many students join for the potential to shadow a zookeeper.
“I heard about the shadowing aspect of Zoo Academy and that made me more interested in applying,” Davis said.
Many academy students not only have dreams of being involved in the environment in the future, but have already started pursuing their dreams in high school. Many local clinics, and animal based companies provide opportunities for students to be highly involved, despite being teenagers.
“I spend most of my time working as a Veterinary Assistant at Harrison St Animal Hospital,” Frank said. “I am able to help out with clients, refilling medications, feeding animals that are staying with us, assisting in surgery, helping out with x-rays, and many more things.”
Academies provide experience and opportunities for students who have specific passions that they wish to pursue in the future. Shadowing is only one of the many things that academies make available to students with strong passions, and with the shadowing application process in progress, Zoo students prepare themselves for a year of enriching experiences this school year.
