Looking for a career change to Zoology

K

kamchg

New Member
Hi everyone,
I am new to this forum. I am looking to make a career change.
I have been working as a graphic designer and a singer, and am looking to into some kind of zoology or wildlife work.

I love animals and know that these jobs are not just about petting and cuddling cute animals. I am wondering if anyone can offer some suggestions on where to begin as far as education.

I have a BA in Philosophy.

I was considering
-volunteering at a local zoo
-taking classes t be a veterinary assistant
-or maybe other classes in zoology or biology.

I think I am headed in the right direction, but would like some feedback from zoo keepers to see what they look for as far as education and background.

thanks
 
Hey,

In the U.S you need to have a degree in Biology (or in a related subject) to work as a zookeeper in most zoos. i am not sure where you can volunteer and work with the animals, from what i saw most of the volunteers in the U.S work in the education deparment.

Shai:)
 
Dunno if it works the same in the US but in the UK you have to volunteer or get as much experience as possible to do most animal work?
 
Honestly--as someone who has looked into this in the past and talked to a good many people about in the field--the best advice that I got was that you need to figure out what role you'd like to be in. Do you want to work in a zoo, period or do you want to work directly with animals? Do you want to work with animals in a keeper role, a research and conservation role, or an educational role? What type of animals do you want to work with. Big cats and larger mammals? Primates? Insects? Reptiles? Birds? You also need to think rationally. If you have your heart set on a keeper position--great! You'll need a BA at the very least in Biology or a related field and volunteer experience. You'll also be waiting a great deal: every zoo keeper opening at a zoo receives hundreds upon hundreds of applications from people far more experienced. Want to work in an administrative role--great! Be aware that you're going to be competing for positions not just with zoo/animal lovers but basic administrators looking for a job where they can get it best. One of the best things you can do before investing money in course (because if you're BA in Philosophy was anything like mine...you'll be looking at a good two years until you can get a degree in a scientific field...) and the like is volunteer. You're listed as New York--if your NYC local you have 6 institutions that would love to have you in a variety of different roles. Use the time to find out where exactly you best fit and work from there. You might find that is good enough for you.

Also, you mentioned your a graphic designer. Don't disregard this skill of yours! There are plenty of zoos and similar locales in need of those talents. Perhaps there's some way you can work to combine the job experience you DO have presently with your passion for zoology.

Best of luck!
 
I'd add this: these different careers are each different life styles. When I started my horticulture career, a mentor asked me "Decide if you want to be holding a shovel the rest of your life." And so I went into management and design. As a manager, someone asked me, "Do you want to be dealing with the Union and the higher ups forever?" And so I went into design. Liking that alot!
 
Why do you want to work with animals and what capacity do you expect to work with animals.

Do you realize that by working with animals you will most likely suffer a large paycut (I assume graphic designers make a decent wage?)?

Working with animals requires experience....often managers consider experience more valuable than education (mainly because the majority of applicants have educations). Your experience with animals is what will set you apart from the rest...

And how are long are you expecting to go back to school for? If working with animals at a zoo is what you want, this program offers you the quickest and most complete education for working with animals in a zoo:

Teaching Zoo | Santa Fe Community College | Gainesville, FL
 
Do you have any experience with animal keeping? I think it is not problem to make any requalification, to do any school and get degree in Zoology but how can you show you are really good?

You are absolutely right tigertiger. Use your actuall skills (designing) for your dream.

Good Luck
 
Hi Kamchg,

Just running out the door to work, but your post caught my eye, I work as principal of a singing school and as a counsellor specialising in working with performers so a bit of similarity with your background. I have spent the other part of my life working in animal welfare so will be in touch when returning from the world of work.

Good Luck with your search, it seems in this world today having lots of skills is a good thing and can be put to good use somewhere.
 
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