Malott Family Zoo Intern Program (ZIP)

Learn and Share with the Malott Family Zoo Intern Program (ZIP)

The Malott Family Zoo Intern Program (ZIP) is an eight-week summer internship at the zoo for underserved Chicago high school students. Each spring 10–20 students between the ages of 15–18 are given the opportunity to work as interpreters on zoo grounds. Interns receive five days of training from zoo staff and scientists and then serve seven weeks as paid zoo interpreters.

During training, zoo interns learn effective informal-education techniques, public-speaking and customer-service skills, and information about animal science and conservation. They then use these skills to interact with guests at interpretation carts containing hands-on, animal-related materials.

Throughout their experience, ZIP interns interact with researchers and animal-care staff in behind-the-scenes tours and informal presentations. For many, these experiences provide a foundation for future environmental and community-building efforts.

Interns also take part in a variety of activities that enhance content knowledge, teambuilding skills and personal growth.

The application deadline for the summer 2013 program has passed.

For more information on this zoo internship, contact us at 312-742-2056 or ZIP@lpzoo.org.
Generously endowed by the Malott Family Foundation.