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Success Stories


Caitlin Woody

Caitlin Woody

Franklin College of Arts & Sciences: December 2013

Dolphin Care, Training, & Research Intern at Mote Marine Laboratory

I knew when I got to college that I wanted to work with animals. I began as a Pre-Vet major, but then decided additional schooling after undergrad was not for me. I began looking into other majors with the help of the Career Center and found that Psychology offered me exactly what I was looking for. While in my senior year I applied for several internships and job opportunities, and frequently visited the Career Center for help with my resumes and cover letters. As a result, I recently accepted an internship in the Animal Care Department at the Mote Marine Laboratory. I will be working directly with staff to assist in training sessions with a pan-tropical spotted dolphin named Moonshine. In addition, I will interact with the public as well as create enrichment devices for Moonshine.

My advice for students looking into internships is to do your research. There are so many opportunities available and it takes time to find which internship will be a fit for what you’re looking for. With that in mind, be open about where you apply. Going to a place you've never been might be scary, but gaining experience will be worth it in the end. If you're still trying to discover what you want to do, get out in the world and experience what it has to offer. I went through a lot of changes and have finally found my passion. It took me a while, but I now know what I want to do and that takes a lot of stress off my shoulders. This career path is my dream and I am so thankful for landing an internship with this company!