5,000 Miles for a Dream
15 August 2007 5,000 Miles for a Dream
Jesse Ciletti 05 turned internship into job at Sea Life Park in Oahu, Hawaii
After graduation in the spring of 2005, Jesse Ciletti moved halfway around the world for the internship-turned-job of her dreams. As an intern at Sea Life Park, I assisted trainers with whatever help they needed each day, helped park guests get set up for kisses with dolphins and generally watched the day-by-day activities, explains the former biology major, who minored in international relations, and was a member of the Heron soccer team and enjoyed intramural basketball and hockey.
Fortunately for her, when her five month internship ended, the staff at Sea Life wasnt ready to let her go. Just as my time as an intern was up, there was an opening on staff. They offered me the job, and now here I am, working in beautiful Oahu, Hawaii, Ciletti says.
Now, she spends most of her time training dolphins, sea lions and penguins. I prepare them for the daily shows that we perform in, says Ciletti. Also, I am responsible for helping with our program that lets guests interact with the mammals.
Whats the best part of her Hawaiian internship? As a trainer, work is disciplined and challenging. Everyday I am coaching these animals, so its rewarding to watch them mature and know that I had a part in that process. It truly gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment to be doing this work, says Ciletti. On a more personal note, diving under the water with dolphins is one of the most beautiful and peaceful experiences Ive ever had.
Looking back on her journey to Hawaii, Ciletti has a word of advice for HWS students. Whether its for an internship during your HWS days or a job after graduation, just go for it! Move 5,000 miles for your dreams if thats what it takes.