A big part of any career working with animals is experience, kind of like “practice makes perfect.” At Michigan State University there are a large amount of clubs and organizations that relate to any field, hobby, or interest a person has. For me, one group, the Zoo, Exotic and Wildlife club, really stood out. When going on their website I found that they are a club specifically striving to give veterinary students more information about working with animals from zoo’s and the wild. This organization not only provides information on special species, but also gives students hands-on experience opportunities, which not only is interesting for the students, but also is beneficial for their resumes.
The Zoo, Exotics and Wildlife Club has a strong belief in helping animals; in fact, their quote: "We care for wildlife animals...because they are a part of our family," describes them pretty well. They also communicate by having meetings on Tuesdays and their own bulletin board in the Natural Science building. For just a small fee a year, members get opportunities to participate in all sorts of different events. For example, exotics animal laboratory, which includes not only a lecture to educate but also a chance for students to handle these animals and get a better sense of what is being taught. Also, this club gets a behind the scenes tour the Potter Park Zoo, along with a few other field trips as well. Furthermore, the Zoo, Exotics and Wildlife Club also participates in volunteer work. For about an hour a day, the have the opportunity to work with Wildlife Veterinarians to treat live animals.
Clubs like this are very beneficial for students in my major and majors similar to mine. I think they give you the experiences you need to figure out if this is something you actually want to do for the rest of your life, and if it is, the club gives you the opportunity to do it. Being a part of the community by joining clubs and groups is not only a good way to meet people who have similar interest to you, but also to start networking to get your name out there incase anyone hears an opportunity you may be interested in.
References
"MSU Zoo, Exotics, & Wildlife Club." MSU Zoo, Exotics, & Wildlife Club. Michigan State University, 2010. Web. 04 Feb. 2014.
This seems like an interesting group that anyone could participate in! What other organizations would someone interested in this field want to consider doing?
ReplyDeleteWell Asa, there is a Zoology Club, a Pre-Vet Club, the Fisheries and Wildlife Club, an Animal Welfare Judgment Team, and many more. The MSU website has an entire list if you want to check out more!
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