Where did you co-op and what was your role?
My co-op was at the Wildlfie Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota (WRCMn), working as a Meds Help Intern with their medical team.
Why did you pursue this opportunity?
I pursued this opportunity because I was interested in learning more about wildlife veterinary medicine and wanted hands-on experience with diverse species after working in small animal medicine.
Can you describe a typical day?
A typical day for me started with drawing up and administering medications for our patients, who ranged from avians to mammals to herptiles. Then, I would perform a variety of tasks as needed, including admitting new patients, working on husbandry and enrichment, and performing diagnostic laboratory work.
What new skills did you learn?
I learned how to handle and work with many different types of wild animals, ranging from white-footed mice to snapping turtles. This consisted of administering oral and injectable medications, giving subcutaneous fluids, and restraining them for exams.
Shayna Gordon ’25, Biochemistry
I also got to learn so much about disease and injury in wildlife as well as what measures rehabilitators and veterinarians can take to help.
Were there any challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge for me during this co-op was the learning curve. I had no prior experience working with exotic animals, and I was trying to absorb so much information while also managing the difficulties of moving to a new city. Fortunately, I had so much guidance and support from the staff, who were always willing to answer my questions and provide feedback.
What is something you worked on that you are particularly proud of?
Interning at WRCMn, I had numerous opportunities to release patients back into the wild, the ultimate goal of any wildlife rehabilitation effort. It was so rewarding getting to see a patient I had worked with over weeks or months finally set free, and I was proud to play a role in that process.
Was there anything you were surprised by?
I was pleasantly surprised by just how many animals we admitted and treated. Most of WRCMn’s patients are brought in by Good Samaritans who want to help an animal in need, and that was amazing to see.
How has this experience impacted your education and/or career path?
This experience further solidified the fact that I want to become a veterinarian. Although I still don’t know what I want to specialize in, I now know that I love working with exotic animals and practicing medicine in a way that contributes to conservation efforts.
What advice would you give to a fellow student embarking on their first co-op?
My advice would be to go in with an open mind. Most people have very specific expectations for what their co-op might look like, and it can be distressing to find out that the experience isn’t exactly what you anticipated. Make the most of it, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself! This is your time to explore.
Is there anything you would like to add about your co-op experience?
Self-developing a co-op was extremely rewarding for me and I feel very grateful that I had the support of my advisor during that process. While it was stressful to deal with the uncertainty of cold emailing and applying to internships, I am so happy that I pushed myself out of my comfort zone.
