At Franklin & Marshall College, Corina Curry ’29 isn’t just studying marine life — she’s finding her voice as an educator. 

Aiming to gain practical skills in animal care and enrichment, Curry embarked on a summer internship with Ocean Connections at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pa. While she works directly with pinnipeds, a family of semi-aquatic marine mammals that includes seals and sea lions, it was among the guests that Curry discovered an unexpected joy in leading educational conservation-based programming.

“I have always had a passion for marine science,” Curry said. “I have found educating the public on this incredible species to be highly rewarding. Every day I’m at Ocean Connections, I am learning something new about pinnipeds, which I can share with guests who may have never seen or interacted with this species grouping before. It’s incredible to see the public light up and get so excited about something I am passionate about.”

Curry, who plans to major in animal behavior studies, credits her time at F&M for helping her bridge the gap between scientific study and public outreach.

“My education at F&M has not only shaped my biological foundation of knowledge, but also prepared me for the public speaking aspect of this role,” she said. “F&M’s interdisciplinary approach has developed me into a well-rounded educator.”

Corina Curry ’29

Intended Major: Animal Behavior Studies

Summer Experience: Animal Care Intern at Ocean Connections in Hershey, Pa.

Funding Support: Schapiro-Cadwell Internship Endowment

Hometown: Mechanicsburg, Pa.

What type of work are you doing with Ocean Connections?

My responsibilities include cleaning and maintaining all animal habitats, preparing diets, providing environmental enrichment, and conducting animal observations. I also host daily shows and speak with guests about the animals and our conservation efforts.

How did your F&M studies or personal interests impact your decision to do this internship?

In the spring of 2026, I decided to get more involved on campus by volunteering at the F&M Vivarium. This experience shaped my decision to apply and guided me toward this opportunity. I have always had a passion for marine science, and my many summers SCUBA diving and learning as much as I can about wildlife and their environments strengthened my fit for this position. It felt like the best next step for my career goals.

What has been the most fascinating aspect of your experience so far?

I have found educating the public on this incredible species to be highly rewarding. Every day I’m at Ocean Connections, I am learning something new about pinnipeds, which I can share with guests who may have never seen or interacted with this species grouping before. It’s incredible to see the public light up and get so excited about something I am passionate about and have the privilege of sharing.

How do you feel your F&M education prepared you for this opportunity?

My education at F&M has not only shaped my biological foundation of knowledge, but also prepared me for the public speaking aspect of this role. F&M’s interdisciplinary approach has developed me into a well-rounded educator and prepared me for future opportunities.

How did you locate this internship?

This internship was recommended to me by two people. West Shore SCUBA Course Director Ron Willis first recommended me for this position years ago, when I began looking at schools on the East Coast for marine science. Additionally, after attending an F&M Vivarium information session, Lillian Basom ’08, the program’s director, provided me with all the skills and resources I needed to be a successful candidate.

How has this internship helped you along your chosen career path?

This internship has opened my eyes to the inner workings of animal care and the excellent work many organizations are doing to care for and conserve marine species. I have found great satisfaction in providing young children with opportunities to experience the joy of learning and interacting with our ambassador animals, and I hope to continue sharing my knowledge and exploring more career opportunities in marine policy and conservation.

Why did you choose F&M?

I chose F&M for its interdisciplinary approach, which aligns with my diverse interests. Pursuing both the arts and biology has helped me become a well-rounded student and community member who values new perspectives and believes in the impact of diverse communities.