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Seven students standing on a walkway outdoors, looking over a railing. The students are wearing matching gray or white t-shirts, some with lanyards, holding clipboards and pencils, appearing to be taking notes. The young woman in the foreground is smiling at the viewer. Tall, dense green grasses are on the left, and a few other students are seated on a wooden bench on the right, with a dirt path in front of them. The background is a mix of trees and foliage.

Zoo Futures

About the Opportunity

Zoo Futures is a ongoing summer program that supports middle school students each year through hands-on STEM research and career exploration. Students can choose to participate up to three summers. 

In the first year, participants meet at the Zoo to explore conservation science, environmental quality measurement, and a wide range of STEM careers connected to zoo operations. 

During the second year, students apply their skills in the field by monitoring the health of waterways within the Cape Fear River basin. 

In the third year, returning students step into mentor roles, using the knowledge and experience they gained in years one and two to lead activities and support new participants as they begin their own STEM journey.

The Zoo Futures program is a summer-only opportunity that runs from June 15 to August 13.

Group of masked middle school campers standing together looking at a masked woman in a blue NC Zoo uniform as she holds a small turtle during an animal encounter.

Who Can Apply

Students who are currently in 6th–8th grade (at the time they apply for the program) will participate on their own, without a parent or legal guardian.

Applicants should be:

  • Preference will be given to candidates who have a strong interest in biology, ecology, native wildlife, conservation, and habitats
  • Able to follow instructions accurately and perform basic calculations
  • Reliable, punctual, and committed to scheduled shifts
  • Strong in their teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills
  • Willing to work outdoors, get messy, and capable of working in all weather conditions
  • Able to bend, stoop, stand for at least 30 minutes, and walk on variable terrain

Time Commitments

The Zoo Futures program is a summer-only opportunity. This program will take place June 15 through August 13. 

  • This opportunity is 9 weeks (with week of June 29th off), two days a week, 8 hours a day.
    • Students who are currently in the 6th grade (at time of application) will participate Mondays and Wednesdays.
    • Students who are currently in the 7th and 8th grades (at time of application) will participate Tuesdays and Thursdays. For these students, attending August 13th session is required.
  • Participants cannot miss more than four days during the summer.

Zoo Pathways Series

The Zoo Pathways Series is made up of fun, interactive learning events for teens from all Zoo teen programs. These sessions are strongly encouraged, as they offer a great way to explore different career pathways, hear from Zoo professionals, and build skills for personal and professional growth.

It’s also a chance to meet other like-minded teens, make connections across programs, and learn in a relaxed, social setting. The goal is to help teens feel more connected to the Zoo community and more confident as they explore future career opportunities in a Zoo setting.

Dates: July 9, July 23, August 6, and August 13
More details, including location and times, will be shared closer to summer.

Steps to Becoming a Zoo Futures Participant

We’re excited about your interest in joining our team and being part of our Zoo community!

To participate as a Zoo Futures Teen this summer, all steps listed below must be completed within the required timeframes. Please review the timeline carefully to make sure you’re able to complete everything on time. 

If you’re unable to complete one of the required steps, we encourage you to consider joining a teen volunteer program that better fits your schedule.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Zoo this summer!

Step 1: Submit Application

Submit a Zoo Futures Application (the link will open on March 1). Please visit this page again during that time to apply.

  • The deadline for submitting the application is April 22 at 5 p.m.

Step 2: In-Person Interviews

Interviews will be conducted at the North Carolina Zoo between April 27-May 2. Each interview lasts about 20 minutes.

Think of this as a casual conversation where we get to know you, your interests, and why you want to participate in the Zoo Futures program. It’s low-pressure and fun, and it’s also a great way to practice skills you’ll use in the future - like talking about yourself, answering questions clearly, and showing enthusiasm. These are exactly the kinds of skills that help in college applications, jobs, internships, and volunteer opportunities!

Applicants will receive notification of program acceptance by May 8.

Step 3: Orientation

After you’re accepted for the position, orientation materials will be emailed to you. You’ll need to complete these materials on your own before your first day.

Step 4: Begin Your Adventure!

After completing all the steps above, you will join us the third week of June to kick off the program.