Colorado State University

Hi! I'm Ainsley, a Professional Science Master's student at Colorado State University. After earning my Bachelor's in Zoology from Oregon State University, I continued my professional animal lover journey by joining the Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management program at CSU. I am now in my second and final year of the program. While the majority of my experience was very husbandry, training, and nutrition focused upon starting my degree, I have learned that I really enjoy the more "people-focused" aspects of the field like interpretation, exhibit design, and digital marketing. I currently serve as the co-lead for our programs social media committee which serves as a great creative outlet while helping me gain interpersonal and technical experience. I just completed my capstone project, Evaluating Environmental Enhancement at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, under the Director of Animal Care and Wellbeing, Rick Hester. Outside of academics I am an avid crafter, sports fans, and enjoy playing both video and board games.