The week was going pretty smooth, until after work last night I nearly ripped off my right thumb nail from my finger. OUCH! That’s pretty unrelated to the fellowship, but it felt like it was something to share to demonstrate how my day went yesterday. I’m not sure where this bad luck is coming from, but I’m hopeful it will turn around next week!

At Ohio Wildlife Center, we have been combating the heat and animal-escapees. With the record-breaking temperatures come challenges with animal care, wildlife day camp, and walking outside in general. It gave me a new appreciation for the wildlife we care for and that they find their own shelter and survive semi-comfortably in the wild by finding shelter and other biological ways they are able to cool themselves off. In terms of animals getting out, I have learned that raccoons are experts at escaping! The staff at our pre-release facility had to round up raccoons that had gotten through the fences before they were ready to be released, and some of our Animal Ambassador raccoons decided to try to dig their way out of their enclosure.

In terms of work I’ve been able to get done, I have been very fortunate to work on a variety of projects from social media, event planning, photography, marketing, fundraising and more. It keeps the days interesting and allows me to see all sides of working for a nonprofit organization and all of the hard work that goes into making it function.

I can’t believe there is only three weeks left in this fellowship! I have met so many passionate people and learned about the workplace and handling conflict while getting regular work done. I am looking forward to the next three weeks!