Testimonials

Amber is a professor at Michigan State University in the Fisheries and Wildlife department. She teaches marine conservation and management classes as well as genetics, evolution, and ecology.

Her previous research has taken her to Fiji, the Great Barrier Reef, Solomon Islands, Hawaii, and the Bahamas. She is most interested in helping students find ways to experience ocean ecosystems firsthand and teaching them about the importance of the keeping the ocean healthy.

Nick Wilson – Michigan State University
Internship: Marine Conservation
Major: Fisheries and Wildlife

“I attended the Marine trip in the summer 2023. Without a doubt, it was one of the most influential experiences of my life. My favorite parts of the trip was being able to gain experience scuba diving and seeing the underwater world for the first time. During our time on the ocean safari we were able to swim with dolphins, manta rays, and whale sharks which provided a sense of wonder that I cannot even put to words. The immense amount of marine knowledge I gained during the study abroad actually helped to land me a paid marine conservation job in the Florida Keys after graduation. If you are on the fence about doing a study abroad you should absolutely do it, it will change your life.”

Payton Michael
Internship: African Wildlife Conservation

“It was an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience! The guides were super helpful and would always walk us through how to track animals and how to differentiate signs of different animals as well! We also had the privilege of having lectured about different subjects as well, like how the animals behave and what they do on the reserve as a whole! Overall, a great experience!”

Madison Godfrey – Michigan State University Internship: Cheetah Rewilding & Rhino Rehab
Major: Zoology, Zoo and Aquarium Science

“I can not only put this experience on my resume but have added value to my future career due to the first-hand knowledge and skills I learned on this program.”

Myles Adams – Michigan State University
Internship: Cheetah Rewilding & Rhino Rehab
Major: Animal Science

“This experience impacted my passion in saving animals. After working with these animals, it makes it possible for me to continue pursuing wildlife conservation and veterinary conservation.”

“My self confidence in my abilities increased through each activity designed for our groups.” “My view of South Africa inspired me to want to travel more to place where wildlife exist.”

Gabi Sleeman – Michigan State University
Internship: Marine Conservation
Major: Environmental studies and sustainability

“I would tell my friends, peers and advisors that this trip is one of the best experiences you will have as a student. The fact paced energy of this trip is amazing for student wanting field experience, and the patience and life skills learned are something we all need as we venture into the professional world of marine sciences.”

“I recommend this trip to anyone that would like a field experience but also wants a summer job, it is a great balance of both to get in all you would want of a study abroad.”

“Do not sell yourself short! Being in this field can cause feelings of doubt and anxiety. You are capable! Just reach out, ask questions, and put yourself out there. There is nothing you cannot do, and anything you try is a new experience which will get easier with practice.”

Jamar – Michigan State University
Internship: Cheetah Rewilding & Rhino Rehab
Major: Animal Science

“I would tell my friends, peers and advisors that this trip is one of the best experiences you will have as a student. The fact paced energy of this trip is amazing for student wanting field experience, and the patience and life skills learned are something we all need as we venture into the professional world of marine sciences.”

“I recommend this trip to anyone that would like a field experience but also wants a summer job, it is a great balance of both to get in all you would want of a study abroad.”

“Do not sell yourself short! Being in this field can cause feelings of doubt and anxiety. You are capable! Just reach out, ask questions, and put yourself out there. There is nothing you cannot do, and anything you try is a new experience which will get easier with practice.”

Andrew – Michigan State University
Internship: Marine Conservation
Major: Zoology

“In all honesty, the idea of majoring in marine biology had always felt like a dream growing up. A dream and nothing else. I never thought I’d realize have what it takes to become one. Obviously, college has made me realize that with every path comes tons of hardships. Getting past these hardships, however, are what makes the path all the more fulfilling. It’s safe to say that coming on this trip solidified my direction on my path.”

“This trip only feels like the very beginning of a much longer trip. That trip of course being my journey to becoming a marine biologist.” “Ironically, the ocean grounds me.”

McKinleigh – Michigan State University
Internship: Cheetah Rewilding & Rhino Rehab

“I had an absolute blast and came home with the hope of returning to Running Wild in the future. The experience truly exceeded all expectations and I know I never would have had this opportunity if it weren’t for your guidance and encouragement."

"So In short, I just wanted to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your hard work as I know handling this many projects and students must be a whirlwind! I had the best time and wouldn’t trade my experience for the world and I know that other students would agree. I hope you have an amazing rest of your trip and if you ever come across Earl, Des, or Elizke please tell them hello from me and let them know of my deepest gratitude for all of you that worked so hard to put this experience together! Keep in touch! .”

Testimonials from our Interns