Expert: Bruce - 1/14/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am doing a project for my gifted class at school. I have made my mind up that I would REALLY like to work with animals in some way,directly. I am not very interested in working as a vet. I do want to work in a zoo preferably in an area in which I can bottle feed and act as a signet mother to orphaned animals. I have some experience in that area all ready.I am faced with a few problems,though. One of the is the fact that I am in the dark when it comes to college college. I have no idea on where to even start looking.Also,I am only 13,so no one takes me seriously. I am hoping you will though.

ANSWER: Hi Caitlin,

Its nice to have a general idea of what you want to do at an early age, and I encourage you to pursue it, but not at the complete expense of other things, and with an open mind toward other interests that may emerge.

There is a community college here in New York that happens to have a curriculum for people who want to do zoo work. I encourage you to look that up to see what kind of academic preparation it offers, and what it requires for admission. There are probably other programs like this in other regions.

That college is Jefferson Community College in Watertown, NY. Also, check out the web sites of some zoos (for example Buffalo Zoo and Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester) and look at the job postings they have. If you see some for animal care, look at those to see what they want people to have for that work. It may also provide some idea of duties and working conditions.  Jobs are often listed under the About Us tabs of organizational web sites.

I hope this is enough to get you started in a practical way. Get back in touch if you have more questions.

Bruce

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Um,I am looking for 1 more career choice. Any ideas??HELP!

Answer
Caitlin,

I assume this is for your project at school? If you want to knopw for life reasons what you ought to do is talk with your parents, friends and relatives who know you well and ask them what they could see you doing well and happily. If common themes appear in their answers, that may offer you some direction for your project.

If you are looking for your project, consider looking online at the Occupational Outlook Handbook. This can tell you about various careers, projections for vacancy, education required, salary and working conditions, etc. If you want some occupations to start taking a look at, consider these:

Physician Assistant
Mental Health Counselor
Surveyor
School Principal
Food Scientist

I hope this helps. Best wishes for your project.

Bruce