“[The placement was] perfect. I have nothing but compliments to make. I loved my job, my boss, my co-workers, everything. They trusted me and gave me a one lifetime opportunity.”

I have got hands-on experience in working with gray wolves, gray and red foxes, coyotes and American bison. All this benefits me directly for my academic research about human-animal relationships and will be a great benefit for my upcoming scientific article on socialization of wolves. This internship will be a great addition to my CV and it grew my professional network significantly. Personally, it taught me a lot about people (as well as animals), relationships and cultural differences.

Professionally, the program has exposed me to new winemaking techniques that have allowed me to better understand wine-making. Most importantly, it has opened networks with experienced winemakers who can play a major role in career advice and advancement.

"My host gave me responsibility, trusted my opinion and listened to new ideas; they gave me the freedom to do my own project for my university work. They treated me like an equal and pushed me to further my studies in coral restoration."

"The past 18 months have been incredibly valuable to me. Not only have I developed my skills in animal husbandry, I've also gained a tremendous knowledge of the admin and managerial side of the field.  When I search for work in the future, I will now feel confident in applying for higher level, curator or manager positions, due to the experiences I have gained with my host."

“The biggest part that I’m going to take home with me is the American openness and persistence. The American people are made for customer service, with their super positive attitude and this is something that Finland needs.”

“This program has been outstanding at allowing me to learn from professional hunt staff and hounds men in all aspects of traditional fox hunting. I come away with a vast amount of knowledge on hound care, hunting training, breeding as well as expanding my current knowledge on horse care, and training. Also, many wonderful friends for life!”

“This journey has made me a more confident person overall and has encouraged me to push myself, open up and speak to strangers a lot more easily. It’s also made me re-evaluate farming techniques and how to use them in a positive way."