High School Intern Blog

20 Students Selected!

2012-01-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year again! We are about to start our HSIP training classes in a little over a week. 20 impressive students were chosen from 4 counties in South Carolina, including Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester 2 and Aiken. After 115 applications, 45 students were selected for interviews, and 20 students have been chosen to attend the classes. The students are:

Destin Allen ~ Stratford HS
Carles’ Anderson ~ Garrett Academy
Jassmine Baghdady ~ Hanahan HS
Makedra Brown ~ Garrett Academy
Kyri Cortte ~ Stratford HS
Summer Cumbee ~ Academic Magnet
Jazzmine Dukes ~ Garrett Academy
Shelby Holt ~ Stratford HS
Caty Hueske ~ James Island
Tyler Inman ~ Hanahan HS
Reneé King ~ Garrett Academy
Gervais McNeal ~ Garrett Academy
April Parnell ~ South Aiken HS
Emoni Saulsberry ~ Garrett Academy
Alex Schaefer ~ Stratford HS
Tyler Singleton ~ Academic Magnet
Ebonia’ Smalls ~ Garrett Academy
Shamon Thomas ~ Ashley Ridge HS
Daniqua White ~ Garrett Academy
Rae-Nessha White ~ Burke HS

The 2012 High School Intern Program at the South Carolina Aquarium kicked off with an orientation for 20 selected Tri-county area students and their parents last Wednesday, January 4th. This program is provided in part by a $15,000 grant from The Alcoa Foundation. Pictured here are three representatives from the local plant, Alcoa Mt. Holly, who attended last week’s orientation. Congratulations to all of the selected students and Drew and I are so excited for classes to begin!!!

-KATE!

It is the end of the summer....

2011-08-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe but 8 weeks have just flown by! All of the interns will finish up this Sunday, August 7th and will start their senior years of high school about a week later. Where did the time go??? We knew this was going to happen so last week we did an end of the summer trip so all of us could be together one more time. Our day together included taking a boat ride out in Charleston Harbor and out to Morris Island, where we did a beach walk and found all kinds of cool things, like sand dollars and even shark teeth! Maisa found a really big shark tooth! We saw lots of dolphins and they were really close! Kate got really excited about seeing dolphins :) And we definitely got a lot of exercise - everyone was ready for a nap when we were done. Thanks to everyone at Lowcountry Cruises for making it such an awesome day!!!

After some ice cream (and needed sugar), we headed back to the Aquarium where we had our own private sleepover! We made a scrapbook from the summer and even made homemade ice cream (vanilla). We played games and even did some dancing with the Wii - Michael Jackson will always make me remember these girls! They have some dancing skills!
We didn't get much sleep but I know everyone had a great time! It is pretty cool to fall asleep by the Great Ocean Tank. Hopefully, the girls will be back to volunteer or at least visit. Good luck with your senior years and make sure to keep in touch!!!

So next up: another year of the High School Intern Program will be starting up this fall with recruitment visits to local high schools. So if you are interested in applying to be an intern for next year's program, check back to our website this fall for application details and deadlines.

-Kathy

Nijeeah's final blog

2011-08-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe it is almost over - correction, I refuse to believe it is almost over. This has definitely been the best summer I've had in awhile. It pains me to think it is almost over. I've learned so much in these 8 weeks, not only about the "fawesome" Aquarium critters but also about myself. My advice for any newcomers is to just enjoy everything you get to do and soak up as much knowledge as you can.

-Nijeeah

Kieontay's final blog

2011-08-05T08:33:00.000-07:00

It was a great experience and the best choice I ever made. If I could do it again, I would. I learned that things aren't given to you - you have to work. I was also taught that I had to be responsible for my accountability. Advice for students who would like to do this internship in the future: Do it because you want to do it and not because you feel you have to. When you love what you do, you won't feel like you are working. And when/if you get in, don't feel like it was owed to you. There were hundreds more wanting to be in your shoes so BE APPRECIATIVE!!

-Kieontay

Keomba's final blog

2011-08-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Geez, I can't believe it's come down to the final week so fast! This program was definitely worth applying to and all the training classes! I had a ton of fun working with all the animals and also really putting myself out of my comfort zone. Ever since my freshman year of high school, I promised myself to break out of my quiet shell. Since working as an intern, I have come out of that shell and I am more comfortable around huge crowds (and the Aquarium can get CROWDED). Also, working with animals (snakes, gators, birds, stingrays) that I never dreamed I would see has really strengthen my beliefs in animal rights! I have gained a new perspective on how people can affect animals and the environment without even knowing it.

It was great getting to know all of the other interns and volunteers and teaching visitors about the animals and seeing their faces when I bring out an animal!

My advice to Cortney and Ambri (future interns maybe? If I convince them to carry out the gator tradition blood line :) ) is to be open minded. Being an intern has challenged me to more responsible (with Kathy always around the corner :) ) and more of a people person. Honestly, there were times I didn't want to go out and talk to people or deal with Ron B. but by doing it, I gained the experience of a lifetime and I can say I have soooo many laughs about it!

I will truly miss everything and everyone and iI hope I can come back and volunteer.

-Keomba

Jessica's final blog

2011-08-05T08:05:00.000-07:00

I'm really glad I had the chance to participate in this program. I love the SC Aquarium and this has been a great experience for me. I have learned a lot from working here. I've learned a lot about animals. I have increased my knowledge everyday.

Before working here, I was not a big fan of snakes but now I love them. I also enjoyed working with the birds. This program has inspired me to study for a career as a vet for exotic animals and not just cats and dogs but all animals.

This is my first real job - I don't want it to end but it has been a fun summer. I got to work with new friends and have a good time. The advice I would give to other kids is that this is a fun program that gives the perfect experience to work with animals and you get paid. It's perfect for students who love biology and animals. You also get to meet new people from different schools.

-Jessica

Rebecca's final blog

2011-08-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed doing the internship program. It gave me a chance to see if I would like to do this kind of job for a living. I hope that they keep having this program. I wish I could sign up for it again this year. I loved Ron the most out of all the animals in the Aquarium.

I learned tons of animal facts I didn't know before. I learned how to properly hold snakes and alligators. I gained the awesome experience and have decided that I want to study marine biology in college.

I also learned I love Kate's nickname "gray haired Kate". Ha ha ha.

Yes, my advice is to soak up as much knowledge as possible and enjoy the experiences you have.

-Rebecca

Samia's final blog

2011-08-04T06:18:00.000-07:00

It's almost over already?! This is a job that I love to do and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to do it. It was hard work getting in but I think it was well worth it. I've had a wonderful time here and got the chance to meet people from both all around the nation and outside of the country. I've learned even more patience here with both the animals and people. I've learned to just move on if people say no or if they aren't listening to what I'm saying. I've gained a LOT of knowledge from working here. Even on my eighth week, I'm still learning. I know a lot more than when I first came in but there's still a lot I don't know.

My advice for students that want to become interns? You have to truly want this job and you should give the training classes your all if you want this truly rewarding experience. You will have a lot of fun and you'll probably do things here that you've never done before. I'm going to miss the people and the animals here. Thank you Ms. Kathy and Ms. Kate for selecting me as an intern. I love it here and I'm definitely going to try to volunteer!

-Samia

Quinandria's final blog

2011-08-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

I think I've said this in every blog I've written - I love interning here. It was a wonderful experience to learn new things and meet new people. The thing I gained most from this program was knowledge and a bigger desire to want to work with children in the future. I learned a lot about the different animals and regions of SC. I also gained lasting friendships -

Maisa: the quiet innocent one who always makes me laugh

Helena & Nijeeah: my two partners in crime - the chatmeisters! I've never gotten so close to people in a short period of time but I love these chicas!

Kieontay (K-Wizzle): my rap homie! Even though we go to the same school, we've gotten closer.

I enjoyed working with everyone else also.

My advice to anyone who wants to be an intern is to ALWAYS stay true to yourself. The competition for those ten slots are tough but let Kate and Kathy fall in love with who you are, not who you try to be. But most of all, be appreciative. If you get chosen to be in the training classes but not chosen for the internship, still appreciate the trips and the knowledge you gain in the process.

Remember to always smile - your smile can determine your future!

-Quinandria

Shantell's final blog

2011-08-03T06:28:00.000-07:00

The internship program will probably be the best job I'll ever have. It was an adventure every day! I developed many skills, even being able to conquer speaking in front of a group of people. The program taught me a lesson as well, being a "Fred" is the best thing ever. I learned that as long as you have a positive attitude, the right mind set, a smile and people on your side, you'll do wonderful. I gained new friends, more career skills and a more mature mind.

The advice I would give to students interested in this program is to just be yourself. If you love learning and you know how to have fun then you'll do great. A friendly attitude and a curious mind can get you far. I enjoyed this 2 month job program as well as the training classes and our new friends (Monty, Ron, Rosie, George, Louis, Orville, the baby box turtles, gators 1-4, Dante, Webbie and of course Inky!). I love those guys and the jobs I was given the privilege to do. I will miss this job! :(

-Shantell

Maisa's final blog

2011-08-03T06:20:00.000-07:00

I try so hard not to think about this every time this topic comes up but I guess I'm going to have to face the inevitable. There is about one week until this internship program is over and it just breaks my heart. This is most likely one of the best jobs I'll ever have - if not THE best job! I feel that I have learned so much about the different animals, habitats and regions in South Carolina that I probably wouldn't have known. I know that I have gained so much knowledge and insight. I have also become more outgoing and helpful to the public that I now consider myself a "Fred" :)

My advice for students who would like to do this internship in the future is to be yourself. If you truly love working/being around people and animals then this is the job for you. I love it so much and I know you will for SURE!

I will miss all the animals here at the Aquarium (especially Dante - THE CUTEST OWL ON EARTH!), all the wonderful interns (I love you guys!) and of course, Ms. Kathy and Ms. Kate. Thank you for choosing me as one of your high school interns. Hopefully, I'll come back and volunteer!

-Maisa

Helena's final blog

2011-08-03T06:11:00.000-07:00

I am sooooooooo sad the internship is over. I had way too much fun with the other interns and Kathy and Kate. I'm going to miss working at the Aquarium. Of course, I'm coming back to visit and volunteer. From this internship I have learned many lessons. How you act can either make or break someone's day. Smiling never hurts anyone. Being friendly makes other people friendly. Always be yourself. And of course have fun! This job has sure made me very happy and has helped me to gain new friends and experiences. I'm keeping this blog short and sweet. Plus it's kind of hard to concentrate with the music coming from Kate's computer making me want to dance. I absolutely love working here! I'm going to miss everything. Don't worry...I shall be back. :)

-Helena

Keomba's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-21T10:30:00.001-07:00

My favorite part has been working with all the animals. Being around animals has changed my way of thinking. I'm around them so much that I even use animal metaphors to describe myself (for example, I'm like a snake, I shed so I can grow - lame, I know). Also just hanging out with my friends during break time. We laugh so hard I barely finish my lunch.

But my most favorite part has to be when I went to see the sea turtle hospital and Dora and Diego's Adventure. That 4-D movie was THE BOMB!! I can honestly say I got really excited when I saw all the bubbles and the water was spraying me. I totally felt like a kid again. Well, that's all I have to say - me gotsa get ready for duh family night! Make way for the McNeelys! :)

-Keomba

Jessica's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-20T10:50:00.000-07:00

I loved everything so far. If I really had to choose my favorite part of the internship, it would be handling the animals and working behind the touch tank. So far, my favorite animals are the snakes - I really like Rosie [Colombian red tailed boa] and Monty [ball python]. I love talking to guests about the animals and educating them on important facts about different animals.

The touch tank is a great experience for guests and staff to encounter because you get to touch and pick up animals. My favorite part about the touch tank is feeding the animals and giving the horseshoe crabs and stingrays shrimp, smelt and other food they enjoy that is prepared for them. They are always happy and excited when it is time to eat.

I also enjoy working with my fellow interns and my wonderful supervisors, Kate and Kathy. I will truly miss the internship when it is over :(

-Jessica

Rebecca's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

My favorite part of the internship was the animal programs and how I could help teach people about reptiles. I love taking out Ron and the reaction I get when everyone sees him. When I take out alligator #3 (my favorite one of all) and how everyone just wants to pet him or her, it is a really cool feeling to know that I helped people learn something new everyday. I really enjoyed other parts of the internship but this was the best of them all.

-Rebecca

Quinandria's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

So I know favorite typically means one. HOWEVER, I have more than one favorite part about the internship.

#1 Encounters with little kids - they're the best because everything amazes them and nine times out of ten, they're more brave than their parents.

#2 Handling the animals (snakes, gators) - so in the words of Nijeeah "Just another ole' day of wrangling gators and what not." But ever since one of the gators flippled out on me and blessed my arm with a little of his urine, I'm more hesitant. But I'm working my nerves back up because they're awesome. The snakes are the coolest, especially Monty (my husband) and Orville (my part-time husband). They're really chill and calm.

#3 Working with an awesome group! - I love all of the interns, we will be at each other's necks sometimes but it's all love! My favorite parts with them are making fun of each other, even though Shantell's jokes be stale! Shout outs to my rap buddy "K Wizzle" for helping make that rap!

I love it here! :)

-Quinandria

Helena's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-19T10:13:00.000-07:00

There has been so many awesome aspects of working at the Aquarium that I can't think of my favorite part. I wonder if favorite parts will work. I don't want to write out a long, drawn out blog so this is going to be short and sweet (probably because the evil baby sea turtles were stubborn today). Anyways, back to my favorite parts. I absolutely just love working at the Aquarium. Not many teenagers can say that they have/had an awesome job like this one. I love working with the other interns, who are just crazy as me, and Kathy and Kate. Another awesome part of working here is that I feel good knowing that I'm educating the public about marine life. I'm going to miss conversing with people from all over the country and world, the animals here, the interns and other employees, and the sheer awesomeness of the Aquarium and all the crazy moments I had in this building. Oh snap! I almost forgot about the coffee cakes down at the Sea Turtle Cafe. I think I'm an addict. Hehehehehe......

-Helena

Nijeeah's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-19T10:02:00.000-07:00

At this point, I think I've mentioned my favorite part in every single blog. Yep, you've guessed correctly. My favorite part has been overcoming my now depleted fear of snakes. Yes, it is true, I have grown to love handling these vivacious yet misunderstood reptiles, but truth be told I'm still terrified. I think my love of the snakes may have something to do with my desire to feel my body bursting with adrenaline. Or perhaps it has something to do with the fact that I am "100% real" (that's what my future tattoo will read).

My favorite snake is Ron Burgundy because he's all man. I admit, he is a bit scary. Perhaps a bit is an understatement. The best part with working with him is when he is on your neck and then proceeds to rest his head next to yours, sticking out his devilish, black tongue just to smell the fear of his potential victim (sarcasm intended). But once again the fact that this "terrifying" Colombian red-tailed boa is my favorite, says a little something about my desire to live on the edge. "You've got to risk it to get the biscuit"

-Nijeeah

Shantell's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-19T08:06:00.000-07:00

My favorite part of the internship has well, been the entire thing. But the one that stands out extremely well is the day "Big Girl" (our big female stingray in the touch tank) flew. I distinctly remember this adventurous Saturday mid-morning. We had touch tank duty (Quinandria and I). The morning was surprisingly busy. All of a sudden, I hear commotion (I was on the other side and didn't see the stingray actually jump out of the water). I heard screams and Quinandria ran to me and said, "The stingray jumped out of the water!" I couldn't believe that until I saw and heard the stingray flapping around on the floor. Unable to process this, I told Quinandria to call Ms. Kathy while I watched the stingray slowly stop flapping. Then a "Fred" (read The Fred Factor by Sanborn to understand) offered to pick up the stingray. I said, "If you want to, go for it but I wouldn't suggest it." The guy picked up the stingray and put her in the water. I slapped him a wet high five because he'd saved the day. Everyone in the "audience" cheered and called him a hero. I personally was just glad the stingray was safe.

-Shantell

Samia's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-19T07:59:00.000-07:00

I love everything about the internship! It's hard to make a decision on my favorite thing to do. From the people and children to handling the animals - it's all just wonderful. The visitors have had a huge impact on my experience here. It's great to leave knowing that I've taught the guests new things about the wildlife of South Carolina.

By dealing with the different animals, I've become even more patient. I look from the animal's perspective: "Wh-wh-what is that? No, get away from me! Aaaah, the huge hand is going to get me!" When getting an animal, I make sure that I'm calm before taking them on the floor. I've noticed that if I'm jumpy even for a second, the animals squirm.

I've had numerous interesting experiences here. When at the touch tank with Maisa, I saw a piece of shrimp in the filter. After picking it up, Maisa took a closer look and says, "Uh, that's poop.". After an internal moment of disgust, I put it down and got sanitizer. Looking back, it was pretty funny.

I'm definitely going to miss my internship here.

-Samia

Maisa's favorite part of the internship

2011-07-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

Oh gosh Ms. Kathy, I can honestly say that this question is kind of tough. It's almost as if you're asking me what's my favorite part of chocolate cake. Tough, right? As much as I love everything about the Aquarium, I do like handling the animals in the touch tank a little more than others. Everything in there is just so lovable, especially since they can easily be touched. I have even had some funny/interesting experiences at the touch tank (some involving Samia - I'll have to talk about that later). It's also funny seeing little ones practically take baths in there as they try to reach over to touch the stingrays (poor guys). But for the most part, I love everything just about the same!

-Maisa

Friends and Family Night

2011-07-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

So last night, we had our annual High School Intern Friends and Family Night. This an evening in which all the high school interns can invite guests to come to the Aquarium after hours and they can show off what they have been doing all summer.

The evening kicked off at 6:30pm with a meet and greet by the Great Ocean Tank in which we introduced each intern and recognized them for all their hard work this summer. It has been a lot of fun but the interns have also been invaluable to us during the busy summer time, educating our visitors and providing great customer service. There was food and drinks and interns took their families around to the exhibits, the touch tank, the trading post and the cart programs. They also had time to show off their animal skills by taking out the baby alligators and the snakes.

We also had a special guest for the evening - Jack Mitchell from AT&T. AT&T provided funding this year for the High School Intern Program and helped make these opportunities and experiences possible for our students. Thank you Jack and AT&T for your support of the Aquarium and the High School Intern Program!!! It was a great evening and a wonderful chance to meet the families of our interns. I hope everyone had fun!

-Kathy

What Rebecca will miss

2011-07-13T08:17:00.000-07:00

Having the internship be haf over is sad :( I'm going to miss everyone. The things I'm going to miss the most are talking to gray haired Kate, holding the animals and helping educate visitors. I've made some good friends during this internship. Doing bird rounds with Helena was fun and when we did the bug cart together (LOL). I had fun joking with Keomba and teaching Maisa that when you hold a shell to your ear you're not really hearing the ocean. And Kathy, I'm going to miss you always telling me to talk quietly and then laughing at me. And yes, I am a continuing conversation holder. Oh and one more thing, Monty is not as cute as everyone says. Ron is 10 times better looking and way cooler than any other snake.

-Rebecca

What Helena will miss

2011-07-13T08:04:00.000-07:00

NOOOOOOOOOOOO. Why does time go by so fast when you're having fun? It feels like I just started this internship and not it's going to be over soon. NOOOOOOOOOOOOO...I don't want it to be over. Give me a couple of years and maybe then it can be over. There's so many things I'm going to miss when the internship is over that I can't list them all on this sheet or make Kathy type it up. But I shall try to include all the interns and moments I've had at the Aquarium.

I'm going to miss being flippered to death by evil sea turtles when sunning them with Samia and Maisa. I'm going to miss the crazy lunch convos with Keomba and Shantell that become awkwardly silent when Kathy walks in. Adventuring through the Mountain Forest (which is really fun by the way) and brooming a turkey with Rebecca and her freaking-out-edness (completely made up word). I'm not going to miss the wretched smell of the the half-eaten, half-baked food in the Saltmarsh. Ooops this is supposed to be what I'm going to miss soooooo....I'm back on track now. I'm going to miss Nijeeah's reactions to smaller snakes (poor Orville). Quinandria and her awesome personality. I haven't worked with Jessica but I mentioned her in this blog...like just now.....actually a few seconds agao. I'm going to Kate's (and Shelley's) bright smiles and extremely (and I mean extremely chipper attitudes). And Kathy's question that is always directed at me...."where are you supposed to be?". My answer is always, "I have two minutes." Ok so I'm almost done Kathy, just one last thing. What I'm going to miss the most is...........COFFEEE CAKE from the the Sea Turtle Cafe. I think I'm going to go and eat one now.....

-Helena

P.S. Oops, I almost forgot Kieontay. I'm going to miss our Friday briefings and her making me laugh so hard that I cry all because she asks "Does anyone hear that loud sounds?"

What Quinandria will miss

2011-07-12T12:06:00.000-07:00

I'm sad that the internship is almost over but then again, I'm gld that I had the opportunity to be a high school intern. Once the internship is over, I will miss the welcoming staff at the Aquarium but mostly, I'll miss the guests. I love that feeling of satisfaction when I can teach a guest something they didn't know or giving them a chance to encounter animals they'd never seen before. Overall, I love interning here and seeing kids FREAK out over EVERYTHING! :)

-Quinandria

What Samia will miss

2011-07-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone?! My first four - well, three (because of a week-long program at USC) - weeks went by in a blur! It's really disappointing that this program is only eight weeks long! I know that I'm going to miss the Aquarium and its staff and volunteers. I'm really going to miss the animal program the most. I can find and deal with snakes in a peoples' homes, but I probably won't get the chance to deal with baby gators again for a few years. My internship has been a wonderful experience so far. Hopefully I'll be able to come back and volunteer!

-Samia

What Kieontay will miss

2011-07-12T10:37:00.000-07:00

The internship is half over and I kinda feel like the half empty cup. Yes, I'm sad that I'm almost done but I'm also grateful for the time I have left. There are so many smiles to make, so many days to brighten and so many minds to intrigue to mope about it being over. Althought there is so much to miss, I'm really going to miss my girls (interns) the most. Each one of us brought something unique to the experience that cannot be duplicated. Keomba brought an amazing soft touch; Nijeeah brought her undoubtedly priceless fear factor moments; Rebecca brought her endless conversation; Helena brought her spunk and great sense of humor; Quinandria brought her heart warming smile; Jessica brought her knee-slapping "jokes"; Shantell brought her tiredless need for perfection; Maisa brought endurance and a compassion bearing friendship; Samia brought her brain and a need to learn. Last but not least, I like to think I brought the party!

-Kieontay

What Nijeeah will miss

2011-07-12T08:02:00.000-07:00

Wow, I guess the saying "Time flies by when you're having fun" holds true. I can't believe it's almost over. It feels like I'm just now getting in the zone. I really don't want the internship to end. When it is over, I will probably miss Ron Burgundy [Colombian red-tailed boa] the most (Monty is probably jealous). I feel like we have truly created a bond now, much like the polar covalent bond of the water molecule H2O. I will also missing the feeling of fear and overthinking before grabbing gators out of the big bin (only numbers 1 and 4 of course). Aside from the fun animal programs, I will miss the great stories I hear from visitors. If you know what I'm talking about, you're probably grinning, nodding in agreement and thinking "they're classic". But hands down the thing I will miss the most is all of my fellow coworkers, the volunteers, the other high school intern and of course Kathy and Kate. Everyone has been so nice and helpful. I will seriously miss the Aquarium.

-Nijeeah

What Jessica will miss

2011-07-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

It makes me feel sad :( I'm going to miss all of the new friends I made and I'm going to miss coming to the Aquarium everyday working with the animals and the wonderful staff here at the Aquarium. When the program is over, I will be very proud and happy that I got the chance to be a part of this program. I would like to thank my supervisors Kate and Kathy for giving me the opportunity to work at the Aquarium and for also teaching me everything I know. You both trained me well, I will miss you both. I will also miss teaching visitors and guests about everything here at the Aquarium. I can proudly say the internship has been a great experience for me!

-Jessica

What Shantell will miss

2011-07-12T07:45:00.000-07:00

Missing the internship is going to be very depressing. I can't bear to separate from this AWESOME place. The animals, the staff, the atmosphere.....sigh. I'm gonna miss this place. I am truly going to miss Orville, George, Louis, Monty, Inky (in a way), the baby box turtles, and the alligators. The Aquarium left a lasting impression on me. I will miss this place dearly. Ugh, I don't wanna leave! Keomba, Helena, Samia, Jessica, Nijeeah, Kieontay, Rebecca, Maisa and Quinandria all help make this placed filled with memories. Ms Kate and Ms Kathy (and the animals) all did their part in making this place AWESOME!! Where did the time go?! I'm still learning new things. I'm...having....the best...time EVER! This indeed has been an awesome first job. And when you think it's good, it gets even better. I'm seriously thinking about taking up college volunteering just for the love I've attained for the SC Aquarium. Sigh, I really don't wanna go.....

-Shantell

P.S. Time flies when you're having fun

What Keomba will miss

2011-07-12T07:35:00.001-07:00

Sigh, it's going by WAY too fast :( I cannot believe it's almost over. It makes me want to go back and fail junior year so that I can do the whole process over (wait, that's a lie - junior year was way too boring!). Anyways, you get the point. I have bonded with so many people and I have so many memories, like the time Rebecca put germex in my eye (which she claims was an accident) or all the interesting characters and awkward moments during break (you interns know what I'm talking about, LOL).

Anyways, I'm so sentimental that I can go on forever but I won't! I will really miss everyone here who always put a smile on my face even if they did it unknowingly. And I gotta give a shout out to my dawgs - Babe (alligator 1), Monty the ball python, the sea turtle costume (that thing has a mind of its own) and all the interns who be trippin' with me.

Even though the internship is almost over, I still plan on partying - oops, I mean working - very hard until I'm forced to give back my work things (which Kathy and Kate will have to pry out of my hands, LOL, I kid!) :)

-Keomba

What Maisa will miss

2011-07-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

It's really sad to realize that this internship will be coming to an end soon. I have really enjoyed my time here and plan to make the most of the days to come. There is so much I will miss once this internship ends. I will definitely miss interacting with all my co-workers and guests. Kathy and Kate have been terrific mentors and I will surely miss their guidance and support. I'll miss all of the fascinating creatures we have here, especialy our cute little sea turtles! Nevertheless, I plan to always come back for visits and volunteering opportunities.

-Maisa

The summer is going by so fast!

2011-07-07T07:07:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe but the high school interns are now halfway through their summer internship! Four weeks have just flown by!

I have been really proud of the girls and how well they work together and independently. They are always up for helping out and trying new things, even things that may have scared them in the past (like holding a snake - shout out to Nijeeah!). They are great with visitors and they are just having fun while they are here. As Maisa told me, she can't believe she gets paid to have fun :)
And it has definitely been appreciated how they have been helping with husbandry duties - from cleaning cages to making shrimp cups to changing water for alligators, the girls have a been a big help and the animals really appreciate it! (Even if they can't tell us). And if you read their blogs, they have some fun stories to share.

So GREAT job to Maisa, Samia, Shantell, Kieontay, Helena, Jessica, Quinandria, Keomba, Rebecca and Nijeeah!!! Let's hope the rest of the summer is just as good, if not better!

-Kathy

Keomba's husbandry duties

2011-07-07T06:56:00.000-07:00

It's pretty interesting! To be honest, ever since I've worked with Husbandry, I've gotten better at holding my breath! I don't like cleaning my doggy's poop so cleaning snake cages is 10 times worse! LOL! It's hard to clean it when it gets really hard. Plus, I have a mild OCD problem so trying to get every white piece of poop gets really annoying! But I like (weird, I know!). It gives me more time with my boyfriend, Monty Python [ball python]. He keeps a clean home so he's a keeper. (Sorry, all the snake waste is getting to me!)

Anyways, it's a good experience. When I get to make shrimp cups (although I'm 100% against animal death) I feel like Julia Child. But Julia wishes she could be a shrimp cutting-pooper scooper!

-Keomba

P.S. Sorry Mom, I know you hate it when I talk about snakes :)

Nijeeah's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T07:35:00.000-07:00

So I guess I'd consider myself rather lucky, being that I've only had one husbandry duty thus far. Perhaps I wouldn't consider myself that lucky because that duty was to clean the snake cages. At this point, I've sort of conquered my fear of snakes. It's actually my favorite thing to do now, handle the big snakes (but shhhh....let's keep that on the D.L.).

So with cleaning the cages, the plus side is also getting some snake time. The downfall being that the actual cleaning part. There I was on Monday afternoon in classroom A with my fellow high school intern Kieontay, as well as the almighty Kate. I was prepared to take down these snakes and their cages until we happened across George's [Eastern king snake] cage, which read "Some privacy please. It's time for me to regrow my skin." We took a peak in and there it was on one side, George, and the other side, his shed. It was pretty cool, that is until we opened the glass window of his cage. We were then bombarded by this wretched smell. I guess that's what you get when he's been fed and he's gone a few times. But I didn't let this stop me. I came with a purpose and a goal and I was ready to accomplish this task. Or so I thought. I preceded to reach me hand in (once George was removed) and take out the contaminated newspapers when my hand actually met a large chunk of the famous Eastern king snake's fecal matter. I was completely grossed out of course but Kieontay and I continued to tackle this cage, one piece of poop at a time. We felt quite accomplished when the mission was completed.

-Nijeeah

Quinandria's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T07:31:00.000-07:00

I enjoy helping out with husbandry duties because it's a sense of responsibility, especially because the animals and staff depend on my work and accuracy. The best part about cleaning gator and turtle bins is that I get to have a mini-water fight with the other intern! All together I love being responsible for certain duties at the Aquarium.

-Quinandria

Kieontay's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T07:14:00.000-07:00

I think it's something that should be done. The animals need to be taken care of, that is our job. No one wants to be bothered with a filthy, unhealthy animal so as Aquarium staff, it should be our duty to make sure all the animals are safe and healthy. The animals can't talk and tell us when they want the water to be changed or when they don't feel well. So when handling or watching them, we should look for these signs. It is because of these animals and plants that we are here. It is important that we take care of them.

-Kieontay

Shantell's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T07:04:00.000-07:00

I think husbandry duites are ways to show how well you can handle chores, responsibilities, and general maintenance for an animal's well being. My chore is gator bins and it is a personal achievement seeing an animal in fresh, clean water. It lets you know you got the job done and in a way, the animals do thank you for it by showing you a toothy grin.

Husbandry duties are AWESOME!!

-Shantell

Jessica's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T06:57:00.000-07:00

It's very fun! I enjoy cleaning gator bins, feeding the birds in the Saltmarsh and collecting bird pans in the Mountain Forest. It's a process that you have to go through and it feels good to know that I have helped care for the animals. You have to use your strength to scrub the gator bins but I know the gators are happy to be swimming in clean water at the end of the day.

It's always a joy to feed the horseshoe crabs and stingrays at the Touch Tank. Husbandry duties may sound gross and dirty but it's fun to get your hands dirty sometimes. I even stepped on a dry, dead fish that the birds didn't eat in the saltmarsh.

I will continue to help out because it is an awesome job to do.

-Jessica

Maisa's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

Helping out with hsubandry duties is an amazing experience! It gives me the opportunity to take care of different animals and their little homes.

As of now, I get to sun the turtles on Monday mornings (both greens and loggerheads). I also get to clean up after Liberty (our bald eagle) and after our turkey (out in the Mountain Forest). Cleaning out the gator bins is another duty I get to do.

I love to help out the animals in any and every way possible! I never imagined doing some of these things but I'm glad that I can say that now.

-Maisa

Rebecca's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T06:47:00.000-07:00

I love helping out with husbandry duties. It's fun to do the thing most people don't get to see. Cleaning out Liberty's [bald eagle] cage is really cool. I was a little scared at first that she was going to attack me but it turned out to be ok.

In the Saltmarsh, it's fun to go up into the exhibit. We have fun picking up all the old food when they start to smell really bad. The only thing I don't like is working with the turkey. He always tries to come right up to us.

I think the shrimp cups are my favorite part. I love peeling and cutting them up. So far, working to help with husbandry duties have been really fun and I hope it keeps getting better and better.

-Rebecca

Samia's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T06:41:00.000-07:00

The husbandry duties are really interesting! It's sometimes funny to see a visitor's reaction as I'm cleaning up. As I was cleaning the Saltmarsh exhibit, guests were watching in awe. I laughed and picked up a half-chewed fish up to my face before putting it in the tin plate to be thrown away.

Picking up the sea turtles and putting them in bins before they go outside is a fun experience! Waiting for their temperatures to rise, however, can be a little dull sometimes if I'm just sitting around. I'll be sure to bring something to read next time!

Working on husbandry duties were a lot more fun than I thought they would be.

-Samia

Helena's husbandry duties

2011-07-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

It's fun but not easy. For me, helping with husbandry duties involves sea turtles, a bald eagle and birds in the Mountain Forest and Saltmarsh.

My Mondays begin with sunning the baby sea turtles. Sounds easy, eh? After completing numerous tasks, I tend to come out with soaked clothes. For me, sunning turtles is not so easy. I'd say my Tuesday duties run a little bit smoother. I cut up shrimp for the stingrays, collect old food and put out new food for the birds, and hose down the floor of Liberty's [bald eagle] enclosure.

Preparing shrimp cups isn't so bad but bird food and poop is a totally different story. Putting new food out for the birds in the Saltmarsh doesn't create any problems, picking up the old food that's been sitting in the heat for hours does. I've been known to have a strong stomach but the smell from the old food seems to get me every time.

In the Mountain Forest, the smell isn't too bad so all my attention is on picking up the plates as fast as I can before the turkey comes around. Oh man, what an adventure in the Mountain Forest, especially when the mist is in full effect. The last task on my list is Liberty's poop. It's quite simple - all I have to do is hose down the ground while hoping Liberty doesn't decide to poop right where I'm standing.

Helping with husbandry duties provides me with a great "behind the scenes" experience. I LOVE IT!

-Helena

Samia's first week

2011-06-28T06:49:00.000-07:00

It's wonderful to be an intern at the SC Aquarium! I've had experiences that I probably wouldn't get anywhere else. As I've been warned, the first day was the hardest. I'm slowly getting used to it all as the days go by. I still wake up in the morning excited about going to work and I'm proud to say that I work as an intern at the SC Aquarium.

I'm looking forward to knowing a lot of informtaion about exhibits. Right now, there's still a lot to take in, but I feel competent enough to learn most of it. I know that my summer experience here will be a great one.

-Samia

Kieontay's first week

2011-06-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

The first week was a learning experience. Of course, the first day was a little nerve racking but as the days went on I could feel myself at ease. The week also was made better by all of the staff and co-interns who helped brighten our days.

- Kieontay

Keomba's first week

2011-06-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

It was great! I am having soooo much fun! I was really nervous my first day, like literally freaking out! My mom was giving my advice and saying that I was going to be fine. She was right (cause I'm awesome like that :)). But seriously, everyone was super nice to all of us interns and they made us feel right at home.

I soon started to get in the swing of things. I am having a blast wearing my super cool sea turtle costume!! It's like I was made to wear it. Plus, I look pretty cute!! I love learning and teaching people about the Aquarium and the environment. This is the best first job EVER!

-Keomba

Helena's first week

2011-06-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

Awesome! I enjoyed every single day. Although I got home exhausted, working at the Aquarium is an invigorating experience. I'm happy that this internship is my first job because it's fun and teaching me how to both work behind the scenes and on the floor. One minute I can be sunning sea turtles and the next I can be telling a guest all about stingrays or how to get to the restrooms.

I actually was nervous on my first day but as soon as I saw Kathy's and Kate's big smiles and the other interns, I knew everything was going to be fine. I really love the positive atmosphere the Aquarium has. Everyone seems to truly enjoy their job.

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep, I LOVE working at the Aquarium !!!

-Helena

Nijeeah's first week

2011-06-23T07:26:00.000-07:00

I have to say I was definitely pleasantly surprised. This is my second job and I know how jobs can be. So on the first day of work, I was extremely nervous. I guess you can say I had a few butterflies in my stomach as I walked from my car to the docking area of the Aquarium, now using my handy fob.

The nerves began to subside as I saw the familiar faces of Kathy, Kate, a few other interns and some unfamiliar but nevertheless friendly faces of a few volunteers at my first briefing. Later in the week, I began to find the briefings comforting as they were chances to meet new people and find out new information on the Aquarium.

Since the first day of work, I find myself growing tremendously. I have since taken out the alligators and the snakes out on the floor, handling them somewhat with confidence, ease and pleasure. Who would have thought?

-Nijeeah

Rebecca's first week

2011-06-23T07:21:00.001-07:00

My first week as an intern was great. The first day, I was a little nervous but as the day went on it got a lot easier.

When I started working at the touch tank, I fell in love with it. It's my favorite place to work at, besides holding the gators. On the first day, I started practicing picking up and holding the gators. At first, I was scared but as the week went on, I got a lot better at it and now it is so easy and I love it.

I'm still working on picking up the snakes. They still scare me a litte. While as an exhibit guide, I got many questions from visitors. The most common one is where is the bathroom. By the end of the week, I could anwser visitor questions very well.

I learned a lot this past week. I'm very excited to continue working throughout the summer.

-Rebecca

Shantell's first week

2011-06-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

My first week as an intern was a real treat. I accomplished many things in such little time. Working with the other interns and with staff is really helping me get a feel as to what work is about.

I currently have two favorite exhibits: the upper Great Ocean Tank and the Salt Marsh. They truly fill me with awe and wonder. My two favorite carts are the bird and shark carts. We ran out of teeth in the first week!

I currently have two (now three, LOL) favorite snakes: Monty (ball python), George (Eastern kingsnake) and Orville (corn snake). They're awesome!

I'm truly enjoying myself here at the Aquarium. I even got a chance to meet Mr. Kevin Mills! I can honestly say I will be spending my college summer here at the Aquarium.

-Shantell

Jessica's first week

2011-06-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

My first week was very fun and exciting. I had done a lot of cool things that I thought I would never do such as handling snakes and baby alligators.

While working I have also learned some new things along the way. I love working behind the touch tank, working at the Trading Post and doing cart programs and animal programs to educate and talk to visitors about certain animals here in the Aquarium.

My first week of work has been a blast and I hope that I can continue to make the rest of the summer fun and exciting also.

-Jessica

Quinandria's first week

2011-06-22T07:03:00.000-07:00

My first week as an intern was a joyful experience. I met people from various places like Jamaica, Africa, Sweden and Russia.

I'm getting the opportunity to handle animals I would never expect to handle, like the American alligator. The thing that makes interning at the Aquarium so fun are both the staff and the children who are visiting. The staff here are so welcoming and friendly. The children who visit the Aquarium are so energetic and amazed at everything.

I love working here!

-Quinandria

Maisa's first week

2011-06-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

My first week as an intern was even better than I anticipated. I had a great time meeting new people, our volunteers, and college interns.

Teaching our guests about the different animals we have at the SC Aquarium, handling different animals (like the American alligator) and learning new things each time I come are just some of the reasons I enjoy being a high school intern.

Time flies by every day, which shows how much fun I was having. I am so grateful that I got chosen as a paid high school intern!

-Maisa

The summer is underway!!!

2011-06-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

So this is the first official week of the High School Intern Program! All the girls are starting this week and are off to a great start! There is a lot to learn, from the animals in the touch tank to how to hold a baby alligator to teaching visitors about sharks and sea turtles.

Each girl will be working 4 days a week, either having an afternoon or morning shift. For many of them, this is their first job experience and I know it will be a great one.

So far, I have seen them working well with visitors and with each other. They are up for trying new things and it is great to see them laughing and having fun.

So next time you stop by the Aquarium, keep your eyes out for the High School Interns and say hello - they will be happy to meet you.

-Kathy

A fun day out at Camp St. Christopher

2011-05-24T08:29:00.000-07:00

So Saturday, May 21st was another training day for the high school interns. But this time, it was only the 10 interns that will be working here over the summer. Since they are a new team and will be working closely with each other, we went out to Camp St. Christopher on Seabrook Island to do some team building activities on their low ropes course. We did some fun stuff like pipeline and alligator alley - and even got to see a real alligator!

It was a new experience for everyone and they all had fun trying something new. The activities were a great way for the girls to understand the importance of communication, respect and trust, which are all things they will be using for a successful summer. And you definitely need to trust your team mates if you are blindfolded!

Thanks to David out at Camp St. Christopher for a great day!

When we got back to the Aquarium, we finished up with some training on what to expect on their first day and then something very special - a tour of our Sea Turtle Hospital! The girls got to see the turtle patients up close, learn their stories and better understand why conservation is so important.

The girls will be back one more time, on Saturday, June 4th for a final training day to get them prepared for the summer. Next up: learning the touch tank, learning the cart programs and learning how to handle a snake and baby allligator. I know they can't wait!

-Kathy

Welcome the intern class of 2011!

2011-05-17T12:25:00.000-07:00

It was a tough competition but we have picked our 10 high school interns for this summer. We had great kids go through the classes and going from 20 to 10 was not easy. But I am very proud of the kids we have selected and look forward to a great summer.

Of the 10 interns this summer. we have an all-female class and they represent 5 different local high schools. Congratulations to the following interns -

Maisa Amireh - Hanahan HS
Samia Anderson - Garrett Academy
Shantell Brown - Garrett Academy
Kieontay Desaussure - Garrett Academy
Helena Fulmore - Academic Magnet
Jessica Kent - Garrett Academy
Quinandria Lee - Garrett Academy
Keomba McNeely - Goose Creek HS
Rebecca Mohn - Summerville HS
Nijeeah Richardson - Academic Magnet

There are two more training classes to get the girls ready for the summer - May 21 and June 4. Everyone will start the week of June 13 and the internship will last through August 7.

Congrats again to everyone! And we will see some new smiling faces at the Aquarium very soon.

-Kathy

Crabbing in Old Village Mount Pleasant

2011-05-06T06:57:00.000-07:00

So our high school training classes wrapped up with classes in April going crabbing out at the Old Pitt Street Bridge in Mt. Pleasant. This was a great opportunity for the interns to be out in a very important habitat that we have been learning about - the salt marsh.

So we headed out with some crab nets and bait for a fun day in the sun. We caught several blue crabs and the interns got to learn about these unique animals and even how to tell the difference between a male and a female crab.

Bird watching was also part of the day - we saw laughing gulls, pelicans, egrets, great blue heron, oyster catchers and many more. We also learned about Spartina grass and why it can survive in the harsh environment of the marsh.

It is sad that the training classes are over! The time went by so fast. But the summer is fast approaching and now we have to pick 10 interns out of 20 to work over the summer. So we are doing 2nd interviews this week and will be making our picks very soon.

So check back soon to see which interns made into the summer class of 2011!

-Kathy

Canoeing at Francis Beidler Forest

2011-04-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

So during the training classes, the interns have been learning all about the different regions of South Carolina. Our canoe trips in March focused on visiting a key habitat in the Coastal Plain - the blackwater swamp. This was a fun trip to get the kids outside and see a habitat that they have been reading about - and they got a chance to go canoeing! For many of them, this was their first time in a canoe and so it took some time to figure the right way to paddle and steer - they quickly learned how important communication is with your canoe partner. Otherwise, you just end going in circles or running into trees :)

The weather was great both days that we went canoeing last month and it gave us a chance to see some of the wildlife in the area - we saw birds, turtles and even alligators! Luckily, the gators were seen from a distance but we probably scared them more than they could have scared us.

Our training classes are more than half way over! We only have one more class left, which is in April. We are finishing up by visiting a habitat in the Coast region - something very well known in Charleston - the salt marsh. We are going to head out to Old Village Mount Pleasant and go crabbing to learn more about the saltmarsh, why it is so important and the different organisms that live there. I'm sure it will be another great day and fun experience for all the interns.

-Kathy

Spirit of South Carolina sail was a blast!

2011-02-24T11:16:00.000-08:00

We had our training class for February on Saturday, February 12th. This was a very special day not only because all the interns were together but we took a sail on the Spirit of South Carolina! It was a beautiful, sunny day and although the weather was chilly, the interns had a great time. For many of them, this was their first time on a ship. Besides the beautiful scenery of the Charleston Harbor, the interns took part in some fun and educational activities.

First, we learned about the different areas and sails of the ship. Then the interns actually helped to hoist the sails! Everyone got a little workout with that. Then did three activities on the ship - we did a plankton tow and got to see some of the cool, microscopic critters that live in the water; we learned about watersheds and the importance of salt marshes; and we learned about navigation and how to use a compass and navigate using landmarks and maps. I think everyone appreciated GPS after that!

And it seems like everyone enjoyed silent sailing, where we all had a quiet spot on the ship for 10 minutes to just relax and listen to the sounds of nature for a little while.

So it was a great day! Good weather and good company! Thanks to the crew of the Spirit of South Carolina for such a wonderful experience!

Next up: training classes in March - we're going canoeing!

-Kathy

2011 Training classes have started!

2011-02-05T10:01:00.000-08:00

So the 2011 High School Intern Program training classes have started! I am so excited to work with another great group of kids! This year's applications gave us some more great students and 20 of them will be going through training classes January through April. Among our 20 students, there are 8 different high schools represented.

Congrats to our newest class of interns -
Maisa Amireh - Hanahan HS
Samia Anderson - Garrett Academy
Nichole Balmonte - Berkeley HS
Shantell Brown - Garrett Academy
Kieontay Desaussure - Garrett Academy
Erin Eckley - Garrett Academy
Helena Fulmore - Academic Magnet
Darius Gibson - Cross HS
Kahdijah Hamilton - Garrett Academy
Jessica Kent - Garrett Academy
Quinandria Lee - Garrett Academy
Jessica Litchfield - Timberland HS
Keomba McNeely - Goose Creek HS
Jarvia Meggett - Garrett Academy
Rebecca Mohn - Summerville HS
Nijeeah Richardson - Academic Magnet
Mirna Serrano - Hanahan HS
Jamaesha Washington - Garrett Academy
Lynette White - Hanahan HS
Barbara Woo - Academic Magnet

The interns are divided into two groups - Group A and Group B - for their training classes. Group A met at the Aquarium on Jan 22 and Group B met at the Aquarium on Jan 29. The kids had a great time to getting to know one another, learning about the Aquarium and meeting some of our animals friends.

Next up: training class on Feb 12th where we will be going for a sail on the Spirit of South Carolina in the Charleston Harbor. Can't wait!

-Kathy

Family & Friends Night

2010-08-19T05:45:00.000-07:00

Every summer we like to have a family and friends night at the Aquarium as a way to invite the families and friends of the interns to see what the interns have been doing during the summer. Really, it's a night for the interns to 'show off' what they've learned during the internship.

The part of the evening the interns like best, is handling the animals for their friends and family to see. Here are a couple pictures from the evening. Keep in mind that some of the interns are in regular clothes, so they may be difficult to spot :) - Jaime

Hillary's Funny Story

2010-08-05T06:28:00.001-07:00

This story is from the first time I got to take the sea turtles up to the roof with Erin, Jeremy and Caitlin. Once we got up there we sat down the watch them and Jeremy, Caitlin and I decided we were going to hug a sea turtle. So, we each grabbed their containers and gave our sea turtle a big hug!

There wwas another time when I first met penguin 138 (Squirt). I have to say, he is the funniest animal I have ever met. He spins around while he eats and makes noises that sound like he's yelling, "WHOA"!

Lastly, my weirdest experience would have to be then I witnessed 2 blue crabs eating another crab. It was definetly disgusting, but facinating at the same time. I remember I had no idea what to do. All these boys were saying, "Look! It's dead! They killed it!" I just thought, "Oh my goodness, I need a radio so I can call for help."

- Hillary Evans

(A picture of Caitlin, Jeremy and Hillary giving their turtles a "hug")

Jeremy's Funny Story

2010-08-05T06:14:00.000-07:00

It was Hillary, Erin, Caitlin and I who all met in one of the classrooms. We were in there to try on the penguin costume. It was funny because I have never had the chance to put on a body costume and when I did, it was most definitely satisfying. Yes, it is hot, but walking around in it was pretty funny. The best part is seeing someone else it it, especially when they jump around and dance. It looks so awkward. Putting pn that penguin suit was the highlight of my day!

-Jeremy Kitzmann

(Jeremy is the intern in the costume. Others in the picture are Caitlin, Hillary and Erin.)

Jalonna's Funny Story

2010-08-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

Wow...an exciting story from this summer woulf have to be "the Orville incident". It was quite terrifying atually. I was learning about the different snakes and decided to get to know a 'ne" one. Well, he wasn't really new, but I had never held him before. So...I got Orville out of his exhibit and he seemed calm, cool and collected at the time. But, little did I know he likes to move around A LOT. While I was holding him he started mixxing up a lot. Next thing I know he seems to jump when I tried to move him and it scared me. When he jumped, I jumped and after that, Orville and I have yet to meet again. One day we will meet face to face, but until then we shall remain out of each other's sight (LOL)!!

I will never forget the day "the Orville incident" occured :)

- Jalonna Robinson

(This is Jalonna with Rosie, not Orville)

Erin's Funny Story

2010-08-05T05:26:00.001-07:00

Sadly, I don't have an awesome stories to tell, but I have a bunch of small ones. One day while I was in the middle of bird rounds, Colby (a volunteer) came up to me and my partner Hillary. I was carrying a plate of fish for the salt marsh exhibit and I said, "Looks pretty yummy, huh?" Of course I was joking, but he saud, " You've got to try the foos before you feed it to the birds." Then he picked up a fish and swallowed it whole! For a second I didn't realize what he had done, but when I did all I could think for ten minutes was, "BLEEK!!" I think he should be on Fear Factor...

- Erin Peifer
(Erin is on the right in this picture. Hillary is on the left)

Caitlin's Funny Story

2010-08-05T05:18:00.000-07:00

It's funny how all the visitors never see the albino alligator move cause I can name multiple mornings where Oddom and I have sat at the Trading Post and watched him move, trying to get the fish.

I won't forget about the guy that told me to let the small gator bite him so he could have gator teeth marks on his arm. Then throughout the whole day he brought it up when he would see me.

Just the other day, Ka'la and I were doing the turtle cart and a girl ran off with the turtle puppet to show her counselor and when she came back she leaned on the table and with a ditsy voice complained about having to go shopping. What girl doesn't enjoy spending money? :)

None of my stories are really funny, weird or interesting but they were worth remembering. I forgot...a sting ray bit me and a box turtle peed on me!

- Caitlin Smith

(Caitlin is on the left in the picture. The other intern is Kaitlyn. How confusing!)

Carlee's Funny Story

2010-08-05T05:12:00.000-07:00

When I was doing the sea turtle cart one day, I was dressed in the sea turtle costume and everything. This girl came down the hall crying. She lost her grandparents so I called on the radio for help and while we waited for help, we gave her some free tattoos and stuff from the cart. When help came she was more excited about the stuff than the fact she couldn't find her grandparents!

- Carlee Hennemann

Angela's Funny Story

2010-08-04T08:57:00.000-07:00

A vital part of every day working at the Aquarium is lunch time. A lot of us, being the teenagers that we are, are too lazy to pack a lunch. So, that leaves us two options, get lunch fom the sea turtles cafe (which requires walking up and down the stairs) or getting food out of the vending machine (upstairs). I think the choice here is obvious, but every time we put money in the machine expecting a delicious treat, it gets stuck! Every single time! On more than one occasion I've had a staff member walk by, notice my plight, and expertly shake the machine despite the very large "do not shake" sign posted on the side. I owe the staff here quite a lot for starving off hunger on these long days at the Aquarium.

- Angela Liu

(Angela as a sea turtle with Jeremy and Oddom at the Sea Turtles Cart)

Oddom's Funny Story

2010-08-04T08:51:00.001-07:00

The first time I put on the otter costume. That's a story because all these little kids kept coming over wanting a hug and sometimes they are so excited that they run up to you and tackle you. Even the parents want a hug from the otter. Sometimes we have bad kids and the hit the otter. one time a kid punched me in the nose and eye. I still love being in the costume!

- Oddom Vong

This is Oddom in the Otter costume :) - Jaime

Kaitlyn's Funny Story

2010-08-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

A funny story to me would be when Oddom and I were working in the Trading Post and he got burned by the microscope. He was putting it away and I guess he grabbed the wrong part, because when he picked it up, his his arm flew backwards and he tried really hard not to scream.

I guess that's not really funny. It was mean of me to laugh, but when we left the Trading Post I ended up tripping on the stairs, the foot wash and even my own feet. Oddom got to laugh at me too!

- Kaitlyn Servello

(Kaitlyn and Hilary in the Trading Post)

Ka'la's Funny Story

2010-08-04T08:33:00.000-07:00

Attention Readers: Most of the events/stories that happened during this summer are inside jokes so you may not understand a word that I am talking about. Out of all the funny jokes, stories, events etc. that happened, I've narrowed it down to my top 3.

Most of the interns were in the kitchen area and we were making fun of Jeremy because he doesn't know all of our names. He said, "yeah, I know all of your names." As he was calling our names out he is reading our name tages one by one :)

My female sea turtle song that all the children love because it has the tune to the itsy bitsy spider, but they don't understand the meaning of the lyrics.

The Aquarium Song. The college interns, Carly and Travis and high school intern Carlee and myself were talking about old time shows like Keenan and Kel and the Good Burger movie. We sat in the kitchen remixing the Good Burger song to "Welcome to the Aquarium. Home of the fishes. Can I show you to the Gata."

- Ka'la Drayton

(Ka'la at the Bird Cart with Oddom)

The Fred Factor

2010-07-29T08:29:00.000-07:00

The interns read "The Fred Factor" by Mark Sanborn this summer. It's a great book about making the most out of your job and turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. I feel that high school students are just beginning their work lives and should start with some great tools for success (even though this book would be great for anyone wanting to make the most out of their job).

We had them write down thoughts after each chapter. Here is what they had to say about different parts of the book:

Which Fred principle is you favorite and why?
"Success is built on relationships is my favorite because if you have good customer service you are more likely to have people visit you again and bring others. Good relationships bring good success!" - Ka'la Drayton

"Everyone makes a difference is my favorite. I love the line, "If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted." I agree! If someone did their job with dedication then he will stand out even if his job seems small." - Erin Peifer

"You can reinvent yourself regularly is my favorite because it allows you to show your creative and individual side." - Jalonna Robinson

"Everyone makes a difference is the one I like best. I feel like so many people don't believe this, but everyone affects things around them. No matter what you do, you make a difference. Whether that difference is good or bad, is your own choice." - Jeremy Kitzmann

"You must continually create value for others, and it doesn't have to cost a penny is my favorite principle because I don't ever spend a penny. To make a friend's day all I do is make them laugh." - Oddom Vong

Why would anyone want to be a Fred?
"Loving what you do, making other people happy, caring for others...all of those things will in turn make you happy and generally a great person to be around." - Hillary Evans

"To satisfy others and go to sleep at night thinking, Wow, I really impacted that person's life whether they know it or not. To share joy with others that may need it and not know they need it." - Jalonna Robinson

"Why would anyone NOT want to be a Fred? People should want to be a Fred to not only better themselves, but to better the people around them. Becoming a Fred will make people have the best times at work and at home. People should want to be a Fred to make a change." - Kaitlyn Servello

"For self satisfaction, to feel important, to make a stranger smile, to live a more positive life." - Jeremy Kitzmann

Everyone Makes a Difference (chapter 4)
"Because making a difference makes life sweeter. When you do something nice for someone, a smile or a thank you is the biggest reward." - Carlee Hennemann

"Every little thing you do to or for someone else affects their life and ultimately your own." - Angela Liu

What do you think of the 7 B's of relationship building? Do you think they work?
"I do think they work. In all, he is saying that honesty and having interest is most important in relationship building. I agree because my best relationships are based on that." - Erin Peifer

"I like the 7 B's a lot. I think they are so true. My favorite one would have to be, "be real". I think you have to be real so everyone knows who you are and not somebody you are trying to be." - Oddom Vong

How can you add value to your position here?
"Entertain mostly. Nobody likes to hear facts read straight from a book so you have to add fun and people will listen and at least walk away knowing one new thing." - Carlee Hennemann

"I could be more enthusiastic and give people strange facts toremember. With children, I can give small prizes to reward them. While working, just greeting someone could create value." - Caitlin Smith

Why is it important to reinvent yourself? How can you do so at the Aquarium?
"It is important to reinvent yourself so that you are able to have a more enjoyable life and to help become a better Fred. At the Aquarium I can reinvent myself by acting on my ideas because like the book says, if you don't act they will just be ideas, not actions." - Kaitlyn Servello

"So you can constantly improve yourself. Since I'm shy, I could begin to be more engaging with staff and visitors (I don't think I'm really getting better with that!)." - Angela Liu

"You efforts inspire people, whether you know it or not. Reinventing yourself can give you more options. At the Aquarium, I can always help a visitor or listen to what they have to say. I can go out of my way and do more than my job requires." - Caitlin Smith

How can you turn the ordinary into the extraordinary here at the Aquarium?
"I can make sure that everyone is beyond satisfied with their visit by just listening and caring about what they say. I can also treat the visitors and staff with dignity, respect and kindness." - Ka'la Drayton

"Let everything you do come from the heart. If what you do is meaningful to you, others will see that and it will become meaningful to them also." - Hillary Evans

Hope you enjoyed those as much as I did :)
- Jaime

Oddom's Favorite

2010-07-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

My favorite animals to work with are the loggerhead and green sea turtles. They are my favorite because they are amazing and it is so much fun taking them out to get some sun. We have to sit and watch the sea turtles so they won't be attacked by birds. I'm going to really miss those little guys!

- Oddom Vong

Kaitlyn's Favorite

2010-07-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

My favorite animal so far would have to be the opossum. I really like working with her and getting her used to people and noise. I feel like I am getting a chance to teach an animal that humans are not all bad. Everyday when I work at the Aquarium, I get to tell kids that not all animals are bad and now I get to teach the opossum the same thing. She has her own personality and that makes her fun to work with. I never would have thought that I would be playing around with a opossum!

- Kaitlyn Servello

Ka'la's Favorite

2010-07-27T10:18:00.001-07:00

My favorite animal to work with is Orville, the corn snake. I like working with him because he is very calm and relaxed when he is out on the floor around visitors. His variation in colors and his Indian corn colored belly, immediatly trigger the guest's brains to what type of snake he is.

I like telling the visitors about where they can be found and allowing them to overcome their fear of being near a snake by letting them touch.

- Ka'la Drayton

I need to get a picture of Ka'la with a snake, but until then I like this one of her with Dante - Jaime

Jeremy's Favorite

2010-07-27T10:15:00.000-07:00

My favorite animal to work with would definitely have to be Orville, the corn snake. I like the snakes in general because they just slither around and it feels cool. They aren't complicated to handle, unlike the alligators, in my opinion.

I like Orville the best because he is the smallest and very active and cool to look at.

- Jeremy Kitzmann

Jalonna's Favorite

2010-07-27T10:12:00.001-07:00

The king snakes are my favorite. To be specific, Louis! By working with him, I have conquired my fear of snakes and I'm more comfortable with getting him out. He's my ultimate fav! Ya just gotta love Louis, the best king snake ever!

- Jalonna Robinson

I didn't have a picture of Jalonna with Louis yet, so I picked this picture because I love it! - Jaime

Hillary's Favorite

2010-07-27T06:49:00.000-07:00

Ides the Opossum:

She's probably my number one favorite animal. I didn't know opossums could be so cute! In the wild they've always seemed so nasty and scary, but up close, Ides is cute and cuddly.

Liberty the Bald Eagle:

I never thought a bird could be intimidating, but Liberty looks like she would not hesitate to kick my butt? I definitely have a healthy fear and respect for her and I very cautious not to overstep my boundaries when I'm cleaning her exhibit during bird rounds. I think she's extremely beautiful, but also crazy scary. I won't be picking fights with her anytime soon!

- Hillary Evans

Erin's Favorite

2010-07-27T06:46:00.000-07:00

My favorite animals to work with are the alligators. They are exciting even when they don't move because I know what they will grow to be as adults. The opportunity to handle them is very uncommon and I have a lot of respect for them. All of the visitors get excited when I come out with an alligator.

I wish they I had the chance to get closer to Liberty. If I did, she would be my favorite, I think.

- Erin Peifer

Carlee's Favorite

2010-07-27T05:30:00.000-07:00

My favorite animal to work with would have to be Inky. I think he and I have a connection. Although I have a connection with all the animals and I can tell they all love me. I think I might be an animal whisperer. The animals are my favorite part of working here!

- Carlee Hennemann

Caitlin's Favorite

2010-07-27T05:24:00.000-07:00

I don't exactly have a favorite animal to work with because I enjoy each animal for a different reason. For example, I enjoy feeding the stingrays because you can feel their teeth when they suck the food out of your hand. I also enjoy seeing then come to the top of the water surprising visitors.

I also like working with the penguins because of the way they walk. It's almost like dancing and it's very amusing along with their honking sound.

The more we get to handle Rosie (Columbian Red-tailed Boa), the more I think she will become my favorite of all beacuse most of the people I know wouldn't have the courage to handle a 6.5 foot long snake and let her hang around their neck. Also, she is a sweetheart and feels different to handle compared to the other snakes for some reason.

- Caitlin Smith

Angela's Favorite

2010-07-27T05:20:00.000-07:00

I love working with all the animals, but if I had to choose one, it would be Ides, the baby opossum. She's just 5 months old and no bigger than a kitten and just as cute. We don't get to take her out for visitors to see. She's still getting used to people so the staff and interns get to interact with her!

I think Ides can help change a lot of people's negative impressions about opossums because garbage digging aside, they are really interesting animals.

- Angela Liu

Alligators!

2010-07-18T12:38:00.000-07:00

The interns have steadily been learning how to handle many different animals. We started with the turtles and then moved on to the smaller snakes. Next was...the alligators!

The alligators are only about 2 years old which makes them about 15 inches long. Even though they are small, they can be fiesty. The interns are now alligator experts and can get them out and take them down for visitors to see.

It's a great oppotunity to educate our visitors about alligators. So many people are scared of them and with good reason since they are carnivores that average 12 feet. BUT, if we can teach people not to feed them in the wild OR help people understand that we should stay away from them when they are in their own habitat, then we've done our job!

I'm very proud of the interns for handling the little guys. It might have been a bit scary at first, but they've got the hang of it now :)

Next, the interns will handle Rosie, a Columbian red-tailed boa, that is 6.5 feet as well as two injured Eastern screech owls. Never a dull moment!!

- Jaime

The summer is half over - Hillary

2010-07-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhh! What!!

I didn't even know it was half over! I'm going to miss all the other interns, for sure, even the college interns. They are the best. I'll miss the penguins too! They're like my BFF's. I feel like I want to learn so much more before the summer is over so I'm going to make the most of everyday and make sure I always learn something new.

I'm going to go crazy with nothing to do. What in the world am I going to do without all my Aquarium friends (humans and animals)!?!

- Hillary Evans

The summer is half over - Erin

2010-07-18T12:15:00.001-07:00

I'm so sad that the summer is half over. I'm going to miss this job a lot, especially when I get my next job. I have a feeling it's going to be much less fun. Now that I have this job, I'm completely spoiled :) until August. Then school starts again and the best time of year is over. I'm already a little sad after writing this blog...

- Erin Peifer

The summer is half over - Jeremy

2010-07-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

I have enjoyed my summer very much so far. Both working at the Aquarium and staying at home or hanging out with friends has made my summer complete. I don't like the fact that the summer is already half way over because my fun will end and a new kind of "fun" will begin...school.

I will definetly miss working at the Aquarium and the summer freedom, but most of all I'll miss not having to think about school.

- Jeremy Kitzmann

The summer is half over - Caitlin

2010-07-18T12:06:00.000-07:00

This summer had been one of the most eventful summers yet. I can't believe four weeks have already passes by so quick. I have been enjoying my time at the Aquarium so much I didn't even realize the internship was halfway over.

I'm going to educating the children and all their crazy stories. I'll miss all the interns and employees as well as the husbandry duties. I don't know what I'll have planned for my summer morning when the internship is over and that seems disappointing.

- Caitlin Smith

The summer is half over - Oddom

2010-07-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that it's already half way through the summer. It went by so fast and I wish it wouldn't. This job is so amazing and I'm going to be sad when it's over. I don't think I'm going to find another job just like this one.

I'm going to miss the baby sea turtles the most!! I'm going to miss not being able to take them out every week so they can get some sunshine on their shell. Another thing that I'm going to miss a lot is the touch tank. Overall, I really wish summer would never end and that I could work here forever.

- Oddom Vong

The summer is half over - Ka'la

2010-07-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

I am really going to miss working here this summer. With the summer being half over means time for school and time to tell people about my experience working here. I'm going to miss everyone being together and taking pictures with visitors when they see an animal up close or at a cart program. This internship has given me a lot of knowledge and friendships that I will always remember.

- Ka'la Drayton

The summer is half over - Kaitlyn

2010-07-18T10:36:00.000-07:00

To know that the summer is almost over is kind of exciting because I want to go back to school and sad because it's awful that I am going to stop this internship. I love working here and I don't think I would be working anywhere else if I didn't have this job.

I am going to miss the people I work with and working with the animals. The other HSI's (High School Interns) are so awesome, it makes working here a blast. I am going to miss working with the animals the most because what other job an I going to have where I can work with animals and help them?!

- Kaitlyn Servello

The summer is half over - Carlee

2010-07-18T10:32:00.001-07:00

I'm definetly not excited that it's almost over! Of course I want to volunteer whenever possible, but the volunteer positions don't include the same stuff that our internship does.

This is hands down the best first job I could have ever asked for! I'm going to miss the animal handling and feedings as well as all the great people. This was obviously a great experience I will never forget and I'm glad I got the opportunity.

- Carlee Hennemann

The summer is half over - Angela

2010-07-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

This summer sped by so fast! I can't believe that it's almost over and the thought of it makes me sad. I'll miss everything about this job - working with the animals, the staff and my fellow interns.

Though I love all the animals here, the ones I'll miss the most are the birds. I can't believe I'll never hear the penguins squawk for food or see Liberty (the bald eagle) give the husbandry staff a hard time again after four more weeks. But, I'm sure these remaining weeks will be amazing and I'll enjoy it while it lasts!

- Anglea Liu

The summer is half over - Jalonna

2010-07-18T10:09:00.000-07:00

I don't want the summer to end anytime soon. It's been loads of fun meeting new people and trying new things. I'll probably miss being around the animals when the summer is over. I'll miss the reaction of people when they feels the stingrays move in the touch tank. Overall, I'll miss a little bit of everything.

- Jalonna Robinson

Week 4...

2010-07-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

...is over! I can't believe it. The summer is flying by and the interns have been wonderful. It's so great to have the extra hands on the floor with visitors and they are learning so much. This week we finished alligator training and started opossum training as well as Rosie (6.5 ft Columbian Red-Tailed Bos) training. They have mastered a new Cart Program, the Bird Cart and are continuing to read "The Fred Factor" by Mark Sanborn.Here is my favorite picture from this week. Jeremy and Oddom put Camp Carolina tattoos on as they were working at the Bird Cart and then showed them off while we were doing opossum training. Who would have known that 2, 16/17 year old boys would still love fake tattoos :)

-Jaime

Week 2 & 3

2010-07-03T12:57:00.000-07:00

The second and third week of our intern summer went so fast! Is amazing to think of all the things they have learned in such a short period of time. The past two weeks we've added several things such as:

Alligator handling

Trading Post training

Bird Diets

Bird Rounds

Waddle Wagon

Alligator bin cleaning

Sea turtle sun bathing

Bird Cart training

We like to add more and more things as the summer goes along so the interns don't get overwhelmed in the beginning and continue to learn new things all summer. As you could see from their blogs about their husbandry shifts, they really enjoying preparing food and feeding the animals (I have a couple more pictures to finish next week. Stay tuned for Ka'la, Erin and Carlee's thoughts on animal care).

The guests that visit the Aquarium have had a chance to interact with our interns on the floor and we've needed the extra hands (that's for sure!). It's been a busy summer and we still have so much more to do.

Here is my favorite picture of this week. It's of Ka'la, Jalonna and Hillary as we were getting ready for our Waddle Wagon program. That's Jalonna in the Waddle Wagon. Don't worry she's didn't really eat the penguin's fish :)

-Jaime

Carlee & Animal Care

2010-07-01T07:14:00.000-07:00

My husbandry duties...hmmmwell, they include Waddle Wagon (feeding penguins and pulling wagon for the show) and Bird Rounds (collecting bird food dishes), both are quite exciting. A face to face encounter dealing with the penguins is something a lot of people wish they could do, including me. It's quite amazing actually.

Bird Rounds are fun as well when you are on top fo the Mountain Forest exhibit and people are looking up at you and the otters are thinking it's time for food. These experiences are a good start for me. The duties give me a taste of what college will be like when I study zoology and begin college internships.

- Carlee Hennemann

Erin & Animal Care

2010-07-01T07:11:00.001-07:00

I really like being able to get closer to the animals by feeding and caring for them. Feeding a penguin is something I've been bragging about a little at home :) Making bird food won't be a problem at all with some practice and I like doing Bird Rounds. I just need to learn everything a little better before I'm completely comfortable.

- Erin Peifer

Oddom & Animal Care

2010-07-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

Husbandry duties are one of the best parts of this job. I love taking the sea turtles outside so they can get sunlight for their shells. I have to say that the baby sea turtles are so cute! Feeding the penguins is fun too. I was a little scared when I fed them, but it was fun. Making the touch tank food is a little smelly, but it's a good price to pay for the animals. Husbandry duties are a very cool thing to do while I'm here.

- Oddom Vong

Caitlin & Animal Care

2010-07-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

I haven't really been able to take care if the animals much since I only work in the mornings, but I have made food for the touch tank animals and oddly, I enjoy it. It seems like cutting up shrimp is my specialty. It was pretty intimidating cleaning the alligator enclosures since they sometimes hiss at you, but I get to give them clean, fresh water.

Aside from all that, I feel like I save the sea star's life when I get to remind children (and even adults) that they must keep them under the water at the touch tank.

I wish I had an afternoon shift though, so I could help feed the penguins and even have a chance to do bird rounds (though, just the name, doesn't sound too pleasant). At the end of the day, I enjoy everything I have had the chance to do.

- Cailtin Smith

Kaitlyn & Animal Care

2010-07-01T06:58:00.000-07:00

Our husbandry duties are so much fun! I love working with the animals and being able to care for them. I really like taking the sea turtles outside for sun. I makes me feel like I'm helping them because the sun is good for their shells and I get to make sure they stay healthy.

- Kaitlyn Servello