Latest News: LTW Students Explore Careers in Animal Care and Conservation at the Columbus Zoo

Last Thursday, fourteen Lead the Way students stepped into a world of wildlife, conservation, and behind‑the‑scenes teamwork during a full‑day career exploration visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. What many guests simply experience as a fun day at the zoo became, for our students, an opportunity to dive deeper into the many careers that keep one of the nation’s top zoos running.

From the moment they arrived, students were immersed in the daily operations that support animal care, guest engagement, veterinary science, conservation initiatives, culinary services, education programs, and so much more. Guided by passionate zoo staff, they learned how dozens of teams coordinate to care for animals, maintain habitats, and create memorable experiences for millions of visitors each year.

Throughout the day, students asked thoughtful questions, made connections between their interests and the zoo’s work, and discovered career pathways they hadn’t considered before—from wildlife conservation and animal nutrition to storytelling through education programs. For many, seeing the behind‑the‑scenes dedication was both eye‑opening and inspiring.

Lead the Way is deeply grateful to the Columbus Zoo staff for opening their doors, sharing their expertise, and giving our students a firsthand look at what it takes to keep such an extraordinary institution thriving.

Experiences like this remind us how powerful exposure can be. By stepping into real workplaces, students gain clarity, confidence, and curiosity about their future paths. We’re proud to support every moment of that journey.