Freeman was working as a summer intern for a University of California, Davis doctoral researcher, studying otter behavior. Though I became proficient at locating otters, it always amazed me that I could put three otters in one view of the scope, and many tourists who peered through couldn't pick an otter out. It was definitely one of the greatest experiences of my life and it confirmed in my mind that working with otters is what I truly want to do. Freeman's summer working with sea otters did more than help him find his true calling. He also satisfied an important new requirement for the Bachelor of Science degree in fisheries and wildlife at OSU-participating in an intensive internship with professional responsibility and independence.
Most students complete both internships before or during their junior year.
Many students who become fisheries and wildlife majors are unsure of their interests and career plans. They enter the program not knowing what they want to do professionally. They just know they want to work with or 'save' fish or wildlife. They've seen a lot of nature shows on TV, but don't know how that translates into a career. So the internship is one of the best ways to give students an experience that allows them to synthesize the skills and theories learned in class.