I was able to learn everything there is to know about being on a SCUBA team at an aquarium. On top of being on the SCUBA team, I was able to help out with other departments as well giving me even more experience.
What I wish was different
I wish there were less interns so I could get more dive time in myself.
Advice
Never say no. Saying yes will lead you to many opportunities you didn’t know were possible and allow you to learn many things.
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One person found this helpful
Guest experience intern
June - August 2020 • Clearwater, FL
What I liked
I enjoyed learning about the resident animals, mission of Clearwater Marine Aquarium, and engaging with guests.
What I wish was different
I wish it was during the time of covid 19.
Advice
I think one should make the most of their summer jobs and internships and dive in. When it seemed like I couldn't do some stuff I surprised myself.
2
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Marine Mammal Training Intern
May - August 2019 • Clearwater, FL
What I liked
Working as a marine mammal training intern at CMA was an eye-opening experience for many reasons. I was given opportunities to work hands-on with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, nurse sharks, African great white pelicans, and North American sea otters. There was a huge focus on husbandry and medical management, and I assisted with diet preparation, dolphin hydration (inserting a tube down the esophagus of the dolphins to give them freshwater), training behaviors, and enrichment.
What I wish was different
Since I have a profound interest in pursuing marine veterinary medicine, I wish there could have been more opportunities to assist the on-site veterinarian. I met with her once and gained some insight into marine mammal medicine, but having more opportunities to assist with collection and analysis would have been amazing.
Advice
If you want to get into the marine mammal training field, put yourself out there as much as possible! While employers are looking for intelligent people to join their teams, personality is just as important. Have a great attitude, do your job well, but definitely enjoy yourself and take everything in! Learn as much as you can.
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Marine mammal volunteer
June - September 2019 • Clearwater, FL
What I liked
I liked getting to work with marine mammals because that is what I want to do once I get my degree.
What I wish was different
Advice
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Sea Turtle and Aquatic Biology Intern
May - August 2019 • Clearwater, FL
What I liked
I loved the experience! Getting to interact with sea turtles on a hands-on level was a once in a lifetime chance. The people I worked with were amazing and if I got the chance to do it again, I would in a heartbeat.
What I wish was different
I did do a lot of presentations to the public while on microphone. I definitely wish there were less of those, but they weren’t awful. The turtle poop doesn’t smell great either.
Advice
Time management is essential. You work 40+ hours a week there for free as an intern. So if you enroll in classes while doing this, make sure you leave yourself time to do work because this job requires a lot of time and energy.
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Sea Turtle Nesting Intern
May - August 2018 • Clearwater, FL
What I liked
I absolutely loved all the of knowledge that I gained from my internship. I am not able to share my knowledge and experiences with friends, family, and beachgoers on our public beaches!
What I wish was different
I wish that we we able to stay for the whole nesting season. Sea turtle nesting season lasts until October, but everyone had to leave to go back to school for the fall.
Advice
One piece of advice that I would share with other students is to find something that you love and do it! Soak up as much information as you can so that you can educate and help others.
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One person found this helpful
Guest Experience Associate
May - August 2019 • Clearwater Beach, FL
What I liked
The supportive and team based atmosphere. You also learn a lot of information.
What I wish was different
N/A
Advice
You need to be ready to be on your feet for long periods of time working indoors and outdoors, including rain.
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Sea turtle and aquatic biology intern
May - August 2019 • Clearwater, FL
What I liked
I loved getting to work with sea turtles face to face everyday and learning all about the animals at the aquarium and sharing their stories with the public.
What I wish was different
I wish I could have been able to shadow the veterinary staff or go on an animal release/rescue.
