The National Society for Internships and Experiential Education defines an internship as "any type of carefully monitored work or service experience in which an individual has intentional learning goals and reflects actively on what he or she is learning throughout the experience."

The Santa Barbara Zoo has had a long-standing internship program. Recently we have refined the program to better benefit the student and the institution. The internship bridges the gap between classroom learning and on-the-job experience by facilitating practical learning experience and allowing students to explore career opportunities available in zoos. Providing the student with a realistic look at a zoo career, internships afford opportunities to gain valuable experience related to a student's educational program and allow the student to make a significant contribution to the Zoo.

More than a short-term job or volunteer work, we ask applicants to enter their internship experience with specific learning goals in mind.

Application Process:

1. Complete and submit an internship application form.
2. Submit all appropriate documentation including:
   • A cover letter detailing the applicant's career intentions.
   • A current resume.
   • A copy of your transcripts.
   • Two letters of recommendation.
3. Arrange an initial interview with the Volunteer Coordinator to discuss internship opportunities and student interest. Call or email Piper Presley: (805) 962-5339, ext. 49.
4. After the initial interview, arrange a time to meet with the specific Department Manager whom you would like to work with for the duration of your internship.

1. Upon being accepted as an intern with the Santa Barbara Zoo, you will meet with the Department Manger in your area of interest. Together you will complete the Santa Barbara Zoo Internship Worksheet, and develop a "proposal" for the project you plan to work on for the duration of your internship experience; the proposal should include: overall goals, daily duties / responsibilities, special projects, etc.
2. Students must complete a minimum of 120 hours of service at the internship site during the school semester / quarter or term of the experience.
3. Students must submit a final paper to the Volunteer Coordinator (details provided during the training session) upon completion of the internship experience. Papers are due no more than two weeks after the completion of your internship.
4. Your Department Manager will complete a mid-term and final evaluation of the student performance and outcomes during the internship experience.
5. Students are requested to submit a final evaluation of the internship experience upon completion of their internship.

View Current Internship Listings