Having one week down feels great, now I am completely aware of my duties and responsibilities during this internship. While it may not be exactly what I am looking for, I have no doubt I will learn a copious amount during this internship. After my full week at the Humane Society, I’m basically a main leader in organizing and running a summer camp with kids ages 8-12.
I, along with three other interns, manage the activities for the kids from 9 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday. We incorporate the animals in as many ways as possible, for example we have the kids do crafts to give to the animals who are at the Humane Society. We’ve given peanut-butter “pupsicles” for the puppies and dogs. We have members from the K-9 police unit come in to share information about their dogs in training and on the job. We also take a trip to the Marine Science Center in Ponce Inlet to explore all of the exhibits; specifically fish, turtles, and birds.
The Humane Society has scheduled a break until July 6th when everything will pick back up in full swing. Having some time off has allowed me to really research my next moves as far as education or career opportunities go. I have been looking into programs and education for a management or operating position at a non-profit organization. I also have been really interested in a masters program based on education, using my involvement with kids during this internship as a stepping stone, I am becoming more interested and can realistically see it in my future.
Glad you are settling in. How many kids are at the camp? I know that dealing with a large group like that can be overwhelming at first. Hope you are working well with your fellow interns to manage that. Are you developing the activities too, or did they have those prepared for you?
Regarding education options: are you thinking about some sort of non-profit management training? There are masters programs in this. You might also think about taking some courses in the business school while at Stetson.