Elephant keeper education

[gorgeousingray]

I'm a Junior in High School, hopefully on the path to becoming an elephant zoo keeper. I know I need at least a bachelor's degree in zoology/wildlife management/wildlife biology but I was wondering what programs were available to train you specifically to be a elephant keeper outside of college...
The international conservation center in Pennsylvania is said to be in the process of developing an elephant keeper training program. Are there any programs in the U.S. or Europe that take in college graduates to give them experience in elephant care?

 

[DavidBrown]

Have you looked into the possibility of doing volunteer keeper work at your local zoo in your senior year of high school (or before if they'll let you)? Developing contacts at your local zoo (Dallas?) could be extremely valuable in your ele keeper career pathway.

 

[gorgeousingray]

Thanks David, I have been volunteering at the Dallas zoo since 8th grade, and am acquainted with the elephant manager as well as several keepers in Dallas I'll be sure to keep those connections strong!