Exploration of Poetry, Captivating Photography, and Birds of Prey at Carlton Marshes
Emma Goodyear, a recent graduate with a passion for photography and a degree in Zoology, is currently in her second week of an internship with the Suffolk Wildlife Trust. On her first day, Emma attended a learning team meeting, where she met many people who work for the trust and assisted with a school visit to the reserve.
The internship offers Emma numerous opportunities and experiences that align closely with her academic background and career aspirations. One of the key advantages is the practical application of her zoological knowledge. While the role is primarily administrative, it opens up paths to more field-based roles, such as Assistant Conservation Officer, Reserve Officer, or project coordinator positions, which are frequently advertised by wildlife trusts and similar organizations.
As a Membership Assistant, Emma is responsible for maintaining accurate records in the Trust’s CRM system, handling payments and Gift Aid, and responding to member enquiries. These tasks develop administrative, data management, and customer service skills that are valuable in any conservation or wildlife career. Furthermore, Emma is supporting the Philanthropy and Fundraising team, gaining exposure to the fundraising side of wildlife conservation, an area that is increasingly important for zoology graduates seeking roles outside field research.
In addition to skill development, the internship provides Emma with opportunities for networking and career exposure. Working within a dedicated Philanthropy and Fundraising team allows her to collaborate with diverse professionals, learn about different aspects of conservation, and build a network within the sector. Experience with Suffolk Wildlife Trust can act as a stepping stone to more field-based roles, broadening Emma's career options.
Emma is also gaining valuable experience in community engagement and public outreach. The role emphasizes ensuring members feel valued and connected to the Trust’s work, which can involve helping with public events, outreach, and education. Opportunities to assist with volunteer coordination or participate in events can further enhance Emma’s experience and employability.
The Suffolk Wildlife Trust is currently undergoing exciting developments, with new visitor centers and hides being added to the reserve, expected to attract more visitors. Emma is looking forward to attending and meeting visitors at various events over Spring and Summer. Moreover, the Trust is receiving funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for various projects at Carlton Marshes.
Emma's experiences during her university years have prepared her well for this internship. She spent a year abroad in Sweden, where she immersed herself in a new culture, completed research projects, and participated in multiple field trips. Emma's love for photography, particularly taking photos of insects with a macro lens, has also given her insights into the world of insects, complementing her academic knowledge.
Over the next six months, Emma is excited about the opportunities and experiences her internship will provide. She will complete a Forest School Level 1 course and continue to learn from the diverse team at Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Emma's journey exemplifies how internships can provide invaluable experiences and opportunities for zoology graduates, bridging the gap between academia and a career in wildlife conservation.
[1] Suffolk Wildlife Trust (n.d.). Jobs at Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Retrieved from https://www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/support-us/jobs-at-suffolk-wildlife-trust [2] National Careers Service (2021). Zoology. Retrieved from https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/advice/planning/jobprofiles/Pages/zoology.aspx [3] Conservation Careers (2021). Conservation Jobs Board. Retrieved from https://www.conservation-careers.com/jobs [4] The Wildlife Trusts (2021). Volunteer with us. Retrieved from https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/support-us/volunteer-us
- Emma's internship with Suffolk Wildlife Trust, focusing on community engagement, public outreach, and education, aligns with her interest in photography and Zoology, providing a unique blend of home-and-garden and lifestyle experiences through practical wildlife conservation work.
- Committed to expanding her learning opportunities, Emma is set to complete a Forest School Level 1 course, furthering her education-and-self-development and broadening her skills in the realm of nature and the outdoors, which resonates with the home-and-garden and lifestyle communities.
