PORT CLINTON, OH - For the fourth summer in a row, rising junior Abigail Lesniak, who is a part of the KWC Cross Country and Track & Field teams, has been working at the African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio. The African Safari Wildlife Park is one of a kind a drive through wildlife park in Port Clinton, Ohio, where visitors can get up close and personal with all sorts of animals such as giraffes, bison, zebras, and more. Along with the drive through, they also have a walk through option, which gives everyone the opportunity to learn and see even more animals, and even ride on a camel. 

 Originally working at the register four years ago, Lesniak, who is a Zoology major at Wesleyan, has   had roles at the park such as driving a golf cart and overseeing people to make sure they follow the   rules, helping on the education team, and now had more of a leadership role at the park. Currently,   Lesniak is an operations leader at the park, making sure everything at the park runs smooth                 throughout the day. 

  How did you get this job?
    "In high school I was taking a college prep class and we had a talk about looking for jobs. I went on   Indeed and, with the help of my mom, found a job for an African Safari. I had heard about it before,   but didn't really know a ton about it until I started working there."

What is your favorite part of the job?
    "I love the people here. I have met some many cool people in my four years, and it is a very supportive work environment. I remember how worried I was when I started about meeting new people, but everyone has always been so approachable and open. At the end of the summer season we have a big summer bash which is always fun."

What are you hoping this job will lead to in the future?
    "I'm really hoping to go with something along the lines of conservation and education. Maybe I won't be always in-person with the animals, but I really believe that you need to have worked with them to help educate people about them in the future."

How does being a part of a team in college help you in this job?
    "Both are really just a big family setting. It is all about working together, being honest with each other, problem solving, and communication to reach a common goal."

What advice to you have for anyone who wants a job like this?
    "Keep on moving forward. There will be bad days, but I promise there are many more good days than bad ones. Keep pushing and putting yourself out there. Things will get hard, but the more you do something, the more you will get comfortable at it. Talk to people, make connections, and go above and beyond."

If you are interested in visiting the African Safari Wildlife Park, it is located at 267 South Lightner Road in Port Clinton, Ohio. Feel free to visit their website HERE. 

Back to the Wild Wildlife Sanctuary Instagram: @backtothewildohio
African Safari Instagram: @africansafariwildlifepark

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