Tristan Copley-Gallagher

Volunteered with a nonprofit marine conservation organization in Costa Rica in Summer 2023. Participated in conservation projects and learned about the local ecosystems. Projects included beach cleanups, species identification hikes, and dolphin monitoring. Worked with a turtle conservation project untangling turtles from nets, tagging them, collecting data, vet checking them and removing parasites.

• Supervised daily activities, ensuring safety and engagement among campers of many different ages.
• Worked in small and large teams with other counselors on daily activities and field trips.

• Year-round zoo volunteer starting at 13. Selected as one of about 60 after going through an application and interview process. Worked as a Naturalist, interacting with Zoo guests to teach them about both animals and conservation. Helped design the conservation teaching station for new exhibits. Learned about many different ways to aid in conservation efforts, and taught those skills to guests, gaining much in the area of public speaking skills, Volunteered 6 weeks a year each summer, for 40 hours a week, plus weekend volunteer time during the school year.