From Classroom to dockside: Sydney Michael’s summer as a dolphin behavior intern

This summer, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, as part of its academic innovation and student success initiatives, inspired students to put their classroom knowledge into practice with experiential learning opportunities including internships. Sydney Michael, a fourth-year Ocean Science major, interned as an Animal Behaviorist at Island Dolphin Care in Key Largo, Fla., a place where ocean science meets compassion in the most inspiring way. 

While browsing through a list of internships provided by the department of marine sciences, Michael noticed Island Dolphin Care. Their Instagram video truly captured her heart. Since 1997, the organization has been providing dolphin-assisted therapy to children with special needs and veterans, combining classroom instruction and hydrotherapy with individually-tailored client programs.  

“Their mission...resonated deeply with me, so I applied immediately, submitting my resume, letters of recommendation, and a hopeful heart,” Michael said. “When I got the interview, I was ecstatic. Being selected felt like the beginning of something transformative.”  

As an Animal Behavior Intern, Michael worked alongside seasoned dolphin trainers to support the daily care and enrichment of dolphins with responsibilities, including: preparing food for  dolphin diets; assisting with husbandry tasks like tooth brushing and hydration; interacting with both dolphins and clients; attending educational lectures on marine mammal behavior; and collaborating with vet staff to train dolphins. 

Sydney captured videos of her day-to-day task working as a dolphin behaviorist. She describes the clean and healthy precautions, feeding routines, and her experience learning side by side with the dolphin trainers. Click here to watch.  

 “Every day was a blend of science, teamwork, and joy. Island Dolphin Care isn’t just a facility—it is a family, and I was honored to be part of it,” she said.

This internship bridged the gap between theory and practice as Michael was able to apply what she learned in Ocean Science courses at Franklin in real-world settings. Sydney’s Biology 1108 course came alive during Anatomy of a Dolphin lecture, and her understanding of marine ecosystems was deepened through this hands-on experience.  “The educational lecture series helped me connect academic theory with practical dolphin care, making my education feel more tangible than ever.” 

Being new to dolphin care and psychology, she initially struggled with the steep learning curve. But she learned to ask questions, lean on my mentors, and embrace the process. Every mistake became a stepping-stone, and every success felt earned.  “Two months ago, I couldn’t imagine hydrating a dolphin—now, it’s second nature,” she said. Michael learned more than science this summer. While she learned how to hydrate dolphins and brush their teeth, she also worked in a team with four other interns learning the values of positivity, adaptability, and collaboration. Michael says, “These soft skills, combined with technical knowledge, have equipped me for any future path I choose.”  

Working closely with Island Dolphin Care’s veterinary technician, Alex Hoagland, also became one of the most impactful parts of Michael’s internship. Under Hoagland’s guidance, Michael deepened her understanding of marine mammal healthcare and participated in the hands-on training of dolphins to voluntarily engage in medical procedures, such as ultrasounds, blood draws, and sample collection. 

Reflecting on his own path, Alex shared, “I’ve known I wanted to be a dolphin trainer since the second grade. After working at Island Dolphin Care for two years, I realized there was so much more than just training in the field. Working for such a small not for profit we all wear multiple hats, and I had the opportunity to learn directly from our veterinarians. Now I have the privilege to care for our dolphin's health as a veterinary assistant!” 

Beyond the science, this internship provided connection-building, friendships, mentorship, hands-on experience, resume building, and so much more. As Alyssa Courant, Intern Coordinator at Island Dolphin Care, put it, “My favorite part of being an intern coordinator is facilitating relationships between the animals and my interns and watching those friendships grow as my interns grow.”  

One of Michael’s proudest achievements was being the first intern to pass the Grayscale Training lecture quiz, which let her begin dockside dolphin training. Her first session with dolphins Bella and Tashi was unforgettable—feeling that connection and trust with the dolphins was a moment of pure magic. 

Michael gained a new perspective. Before this internship, she wasn’t sure what direction she wanted to take in marine science. Now, she feels more open and excited about the possibilities. Dolphin training is no longer just a vague idea — it’s a real, viable path that she’s eager to explore further.   

“This summer internship changed me — not just as a student, but as a person,” she said. “And I’ll always be grateful for the dolphins, the people, and the lessons that made it unforgettable an experience with every passing day, and the range of learning I have experienced will stay with me forever.” 

Her advice for future interns? “If you’re considering an internship in marine science, my advice is simple: follow your passion. Don’t let conventional paths or outside opinions steer you away from what excites you. Success looks different for everyone, and the most meaningful growth happens when you chase what lights you up.” 

If you are curious about learning more about Island Dolphin Care visit islanddolphincare.org to explore their incredible story.