Fern was an Intern for Wildlife SOS during Spring 2025.
Briefly explain what you did and the result of your internship.
I traveled to India with Dr. Tom Smith and two graduate students to determine the feasibility of a future study abroad to India, working with Wildlife SOS. We stayed at volunteer housing (with lots of monkeys and toads!) and toured their elephant sanctuary as well as their bear rescue center where they care for injured sloth bears- most of them formerly 'dancing bears.' I learned about the conservation work being done abroad, how to creatively solve problems in a third world country, and how to raise money and attract volunteers to support your cause.
What did you learn on your internship that you were not expecting to learn?
I did not expect to learn just how much progress Wildlife SOS has made. They have effectively eliminated all dancing bear practices in the whole of India, and are tackling the 'begging elephant' problem. I was consistently impressed with how this relatively new organization has so many supporters, donors, volunteers, employees, etc.
How have your future plans changed because of what you learned from your internship experience?
My future plans have changed because now I see the possibility and power of dedicated people who come together under a common purpose to change the fate of such mistreated and miserable animals. Elephants, sloth bears, tigers, leopards, and snakes have all been blessed by the people who decided to put the work of conservation before their own lives.
Please share how your experience led to personal inspiration or insightful revelation.
I realized just how lucky and blessed I am. To see such poverty, people sleeping on mountains of trash with stray dogs and cows eating the plastics around them, and so many amputated limbs, missing teeth, skinny children, it was truly humbling. God gives them the strength to keep smiling amidst the turmoil of their country.
Would you recommend this internship to other students?
I would highly recommend this experience to others- everyone should be aware of the plight of the people and of the animals. It is our duty as stewards to care for, love, and support all of God's creations, and especially our spiritual brothers and sisters.
