Pre-Veterinary Opportunities

Students are encouraged to work with a variety of animals in preparation for veterinary medical school. The opportunities listed below are examples of the variety of experiences one could have to gain knowledge and insight to the profession of a veterinarian and working with animals.

Anti-Cruelty Society

The adoption center is located at 510 N. LaSalle Drive in Chicago, Illinois. There are a variety of programs to which students can choose to volunteer.

Animal Welfare League

Students can volunteer in areas such as: animal groomer, health care specialist, humane education department, greeters, office assistants, and special events. Volunteer Information

A.R.F. - Animal Rescue Foundation

A.R.F. is an all-volunteer foster-based organization in Wheaton that rescues cats and dogs from high-kill shelters and places them in forever homes. Volunteer needs include animal intake and medical review and treatment, taking care of the cats in the Wheaton or Darien PetSmart adoption centers, attending adoption events, and various administrative and fundraising opportunities. For more information visit A.R.F.'s website and fill out a volunteer application.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Brookfield Zoo Chicago's internship program is one of the nation’s best, giving students the chance to work side-by-side with animal care experts and learn what it takes to support amazing species every day. Interns can dive into everything from animal care and conservation to education, veterinary tech, environmental quality, and marketing. You’ll gain hands-on experience, learn from passionate mentors, and take on a project that matches your interests. It’s a chance to build real skills, explore different career paths, and make a meaningful impact — all in a dynamic zoo environment.

C.A.R.E. (Community Animal Rescue Effort)

This organization is comprised of all volunteers that desire to find homes for unwanted and abandoned animals. It also serves as an educational and counseling resource to the community. C.A.R.E Volunteer Information

Cosley Zoo

Cosley Zoo in Wheaton is home to farm animals and native wildlife. The zoo is a center for animal education and conservation, offering programs that teach young and old how to care for the world around them and give back to the communities in which they live, work, and play. Cosley Volunteer & Internship Opportunities

Disney Sciences and Zoology Internships

Interns are responsible for the care and welfare of the animals at many of the theme parks and other park experiences. Internships available in areas such as: Animal Nutrition, Animal Behavior, Aquarium and Marine Biology, Aquatic Vet Hospital, Marine Mammal and Reproductive Biology.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Positions are available in many different areas such as Education, Guest Experience, Horticulture, and Events.

Shedd Aquarium

Students can choose from a variety of opportunities such as guest engagement, aquarium collections husbandry, marine mammal husbandry, water-quality laboratory, library sciences, Caribbean reef diver and marine mammal diver (prior experience is required).