I’m Amelia. I’m in year 11 this year and starting to think about ‘where I’m heading’. I have a variety of interests but am not yet sure of my pathway. I love books, reading, writing, and many other creative interests. I could perhaps follow a career path in any one of those interests. However, I also have a strong and growing interest in animals and nature. Over the years I have occasionally helped my aunty who works with dogs and have loved joining her on walks, caring for and transporting animals and reading about animal psychology. I have lived in some amazing environments, in both regional and remote across two states, and have loved exploring and camping in those regions. After completing some camps for my Duke of Edinburgh Award last year, I have fallen in love with hiking too and realised, maybe, there is a career for me in this direction – either with animals, domestic or wild, or other environmental projects.
Two of my subjects for VCE are Outdoor and Environmental Studies and Psychology, both of which allow me to further my interests in the outdoors and learn more about how our minds work, why we do what we do and how we could do things better.
I love being actively involved in working towards sustainable environmental practices and healthier outcomes for people, especially youth and those who are disadvantaged. I have participated in local council initiatives learning about the local environment and how we can better look after it. These interests combined lead me to investigate working with animals. As I have plenty of experience in working with local, community-based organisations, I wanted my work experience to be more adventurous and different from my day-to-day life. I was looking at possibilities with my mum’s support, and she shared a link to Melbourne Zoo with me.
Once I realised that work experience there was possible, I was delighted to even apply. I had to fill out an online application, outlining my interest in animals and the zoo, if I thought I would be able to work on the dates available, if I could follow instructions, etc. The hardest part was choosing a location – Werribee, Healesville or Melbourne Zoo – I wanted to be at them all! I was accepted at Melbourne and could not believe it. I was ecstatic!
I understand that I am probably not going to handle any animals directly, but even being near them is a prospect I find exhilarating. I hope to better understand what is involved in the care and maintenance of the zoo, how so many different needs are managed, and I imagine I will be surrounded by other animal lovers, which will be fantastic.
I love that the zoos offer opportunities for people to better understand so many creatures that need protection, that people may otherwise not know about. This planet is shared with all sorts of species, and I think caring for them and working better with all of nature is not only better for the planet, but better for us as humans – for our health both physically and mentally. I hope to somehow contribute to improving the health of the world and individuals, whatever my career turns out to be.
To me, this opportunity is incredibly special and exciting, and means being given the chance to do something I have wanted to do for years. I cannot wait!
And we can’t wait to catch up with Amelie after her placement to find out more about it!
Opportunities like this remind us that learning does not only happen within scheduled online classes – but it also grows when curiosity is followed and passions are pursued. Whether through events, work placements, short courses, scholarships or competitions, we encourage all students to explore the experiences that spark their interest throughout the year. Taking that first step can open unexpected doors, build confidence and shape future pathways. If something excites you, lean into it — your next opportunity may be closer than you think.
Try these ways of pursuing your interests:
- Tell someone what you’re interested in. Let your teachers or Learning Advisor know what excites you – they often hear about placements, competitions and scholarships first.
- Follow organisations in your area of interest. Museums, universities, community groups, creative organisations and industry bodies often advertise youth programs and short courses.
- Start small. A one-day workshop or local event can build confidence before applying for longer programs.
- Keep a simple opportunities list. When you hear about something interesting, jot it down with dates and links so you don’t forget.
- Be willing to ask questions. If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, ask. Initiative is often viewed positively!
