January 15, 2010 by JackHarvey •

On January 4, twenty-two students from Texas A&M University at Galveston started an 11-day intercession course entitled “Introduction to Marine Biology: the SeaWorld Experience.” For the first five days of the class, students spend their day in the animal areas, working side-by-side with animal trainers and keepers.

After experiencing what it’s like to work at a zoological facility, the students participate in mock interviews with the zoological staff and choose to specialize for an additional three days in select animal areas. This allows for a more in-depth look into what it takes to work with animals at SeaWorld, and gives them real-life experience in interview situations for positions at the park.

Each afternoon after working in the areas, the students attend lecture courses from Texas A&M University at Galveston professors and graduate students to introduce concepts in marine biology as well as SeaWorld professions.  These lectures cover topics such as research programs or conservation projects the team members have been a part of.

SeaWorld San Antonio and Texas A&M University at Galveston have partnered for the past 10 years to offer this course. Dr. Jay Rooker, Professor of Marine Biology, Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences and Marine Sciences, has taught the class for several years and says,

“The course provides our students with a ‘behind-the-scenes’ experience in a zoological park early in their academic careers when they are making decisions about degree plans. In addition to learning the fundamentals of marine conservation, our students acquire basic skills in animal husbandry and get the opportunity to work side-by-side with professionals in the fields of education, animal behavior and veterinary medicine. Many of our past students have gone on to successful careers in marine-based research and education, including positions at SeaWorld and other zoological parks.”

Although this is a special class offered through the university, our Adventure Camp programs offer high school and college students similar experiences throughout the year. For more information on our Adventure Camp, visit www.swbg-adventurecamps.com.

Thanks and Gig ‘em,

Jack

Related posts:

1. Back to School Resources for Teachers from SeaWorld
2. What Happens at SeaWorld During the Winter?
3. Where Did The Flamingos Go?
4. SeaWorld Camp Season Is Over: So Now What?
5. The Makings of a Camp Counselor

Tags: Adventure Camp, animal behavior, college, Education, Texas A&M at Galveston, veterinary medicine, zoological careers

Posted in Adventure Camp