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High School Senior Projects
The N.C. Zoo is dedicated to offering a senior project opportunity that will be unique. The project allows students to gain knowledge, skills and abilities in an atmosphere that promotes conservation, education and environmental awareness. Seniors wishing to do projects with the Zoo must be willing to engage Zoo Visitors to present information about animals, their habits or behaviors and natural communities.
Purpose
Our program is designed to:
- Offer practical, hands-on experiences
- Provide opportunities that enhance academic training
- Demonstrate an aspect of new learning and growth
- Generate excitement and enthusiasm in pursuing conservation-related careers
- Encourage public interaction and discussion of each students' chosen topic
All senior project students work under the guidance of the Zoo Education Section. Senior Project students work as a peer group in a program that features ten hours of structured group activities. These activities include an orientation session, a two-hour training session, a facilities tour and participation in a park-wide special event. Following receipt of your application, you will be sent the schedule of events for the current semester. A general outline of the program follows:
| Spring Semester | Fall Semester | |
| Applications due | January 30 | September 3 |
| 1-Hour Orientation | Second Week of February | Second Week of September |
| 2-Hour Interpreter Training | Last Week of February | Third Week of September |
| 2-Hour Facilities Tour | Third Week of March | First Week of October |
| 5-Hour Park-wide Event: | Earth Day-Mid April | Third Weekend of October |
Application Process
Numerous requests are received each year. Because the process is very competitive, it is imperative that students put thought and effort into completion of the application packet. Students interested in applying for a senior project are required to submit a completed application. The completed application packet must be submitted per established deadlines (Fall – September 3 and Spring - January 30). Applications that are not received by established deadlines and/or incomplete application packets will not be considered.