Christopher Lo Re is applying what he’s learned in biology classes at SJC Long Island to his internship at the Sweetbriar Nature Center’s Butterfly Vivarium.
“I visited Sweetbriar with my family regularly since I was a child,” Lo Re, 20, of Holbrook, New York, said. “I was amazed by the animals and plants, always wanting to learn more. To now have the opportunity to share my positive experiences with people of all ages is a great privilege.”
Lo Re began the internship at the Smithtown, New York, location June 8 during Sweetbriar’s Butterfly and Wildlife fair, and he will serve through the last week of August. He works with the butterflies in the vivarium, caring for them throughout their lifecycles. He also helps maintain the plants and hosts educational presentations.
“Sharing my knowledge with the public and watching their excitement as they learn is very rewarding,” he said.
A Dream (Job) Come True
A biology major with a minor in environmental studies, Lo Re became passionate about all living things at a very young age.
“I have always had a love for animals and felt a strong concern for their well-being,” Lo Re said. “As I grew, so did my passion for learning about all living things. When I took various science courses in high school, my passion for biology intensified.”
His two interests came together when Lo Re began volunteering at Sweetbriar five years ago. He saw college students serving as interns, looking forward to the day he could serve as one himself.
When Lo Re saw an internship opportunity at Sweetbriar posted on Handshake (an online job board), he jumped on the opportunity.
“Working at the Nature center in my current capacity is basically my dream job,” said Lo Re, who enters his senior year at SJC Long Island this fall. “I hope to find a paid position after graduation where I am able to apply knowledge I gained from St. Joseph’s College out in the field. I would love to take an active role in protecting and preserving the environment while working with animals.”
No matter where he ends up after St. Joseph’s College, Lo Re hopes to have a positive impact on the future.
“While awaiting a paid position, I fully intend to volunteer my time and take an active role in helping others — both humans and animals,” he said.
