We’ve been busy with matings but it looks like we may get a little bit of a lull soon, fingers crossed we’ll have a little breathing time and maybe even get to take a full day off!! Until then, you guys can read up on our final intern introduction blog, here’s Haley:

“Hello world! Name is Haley Graf and I’m a third year student at Humboldt State University studying to get my bachelors degree in Wildlife Biology. As someone who shares the vision to protect and restore species and their habitats in a quickly changing world, I was lucky enough to be selected to work as an intern for this 2017 Winter season with PDXWildlife. My significant interest in wildlife conservation, especially in Giant Pandas, is what brought me to apply for this internship. In addition to being passionate, I’m hardworking, dependable, and friendly.

Feeding birds at Sea Life Park in Oahu, HI

To me, having the opportunity to travel the world is one of the most appealing things about a career in Wildlife. My experiences traveling all throughout California as well as places like Oregon, Texas, Hawaii and Mexico have sparked a taste for adventure that I seek to incorporate into my future career. Despite not having previous experience living and working in developing countries, I feel that my independence and curiosity give me the tools I need to successfully immerse myself in a different country’s culture. Being born and raised in the United States, my first language is English; I look forward to learning Chinese to participate in this internship.

Paddle boarding down the Deschutes River in Bend, OR

Hiking with a friend in the Ramona area of San Diego, CA

Although I am newly entering the scientific workforce, my time working at a sandwich shop and the University food court has given me the skills needed to work well with a team in a fast-paced environment as well as the tools to be self-sufficient. As a responsible member of a team, I use my great communication skills to stay in tune with co-workers and management. Additionally, my time in the Wildlife program at Humboldt State University has helped to prepare me for a career working with and handling animals.

My first catch!

Through courses such as Zoology and Biology, I have become familiar with various lab procedures and equipment. In my Wildlife Policy and Animal Welfare class, I learned to articulate knowledge of ethical and political issues related to the “use” of wild vertebrate animals in teaching, research, and management. Other courses like Introduction to Wildlife Conservation and Administration gave me opportunities to learn about and handle some of the animals housed in our campus Game Pen.

I look forward to learning more and sharing our adventures with all of you!

Best Regards,

Haley Graf”

Haley’s one of our young’uns so be particularly warm and welcoming to her!