Shark Conservation Internship Program

We transform passion into impact.

We empower the next generation of ocean leaders to turn their passion into lasting change. Through hands-on experience, career-ready training, and global mentorship, young college students gain the tools, confidence, and connections to thrive in marine biology and conservation—fields where every voice and action counts.

We create pathways and real results.

By combining education, advocacy, and innovation, we open doors to diverse conservation careers and amplify the reach of those determined to make a difference. From shaping legislation and advancing research to leading citizen-science projects and global campaigns, our students and mentors work together to create measurable impact that protects our oceans and inspires millions.

We fill the void missing from traditional education.

Most structured internships emphasize fieldwork like tagging and sampling. Yet only 30–40% of conservation jobs are field-based; the majority involve policy, advocacy, analysis, and fundraising. Most other internship programs train students for the 30% they learn in school. Shark Angels focuses on the overlooked 70%.

Volunteering with Shark Angels has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I gained hands-on experience in policy research, communication, fundraising, and collaboration while contributing to projects like Shark Laws and Loopholes. Most importantly, I felt empowered to turn my passion for protecting sharks into meaningful action. Shark Angels is unique because they not only protect sharks but also invest in their volunteers and inspire future conservationists. I’m proud to be part of this community and will carry these skills with me as I continue my journey in marine conservation.

Xenia Anagnostou

University of Plymouth, Masters in Marine Conservation, graduated in Dec 2025.

Growing up on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, Xenia developed a strong connection to the sea and its diverse marine life, sparking a lifelong passion for conservation. From an early age, she was drawn to the ocean—spending countless hours as a Sea Scout, diving, and rowing. This deep-rooted love for the marine environment led her to pursue a career in conservation, beginning with an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences and continuing with a Master’s in Marine Conservation at the University of Plymouth.

Early in Xenia’s journey, she recognized that policy offered the greatest opportunity to drive meaningful change. With a focus on addressing critical marine issues, her goal is to advocate for stronger, science-based conservation measures. Through her work with Shark Angels, she contributes by analyzing existing policy frameworks, uncovering regulatory loopholes, and writing articles that raise awareness about the urgent need for effective shark protection.

Outputs: Environmental Policy Articles, research on shark laws in the US, Shark Laws & Loopholes

I already knew I wanted to work with sharks but this is a great step into the conservation charity industry! I have made many connections through Shark Angels, which I’m sure will benefit me in the future.

Louison Keppenne

University of Plymouth, Masters in Marine Conservation, graduated Dec 2025.

From a young age, a deep love for the sea shaped her path. Taught to sail by her father, she developed an early and lasting connection to the ocean. But it was a life-changing experience diving with sharks in South Africa during her gap year that truly ignited her passion. Mesmerized by the encounter, she knew then that her future would be dedicated to protecting the ocean and its incredible wildlife.

She pursued this calling by studying Marine Biology at the University of Aberdeen and is now completing a Master’s in Marine Conservation at the University of Plymouth. Her work with Shark Angels has allowed her to give sharks a voice and contribute to meaningful conservation efforts. By running the organization’s TikTok platform, raising awareness, and leading outreach initiatives, she’s seen firsthand the power of connecting people to these often misunderstood animals.

Her internship with Shark Angels marks just the beginning of her journey in shark conservation—and she’s committed to continuing to speak up for sharks and inspire others to do the same.

Outputs: Shark Fact Videos for Tiktok and Instagram

This experience has been validating and has shown me that this is the type of work that I want to do in the future.

Anna Keefer

University of Virginia, Echols Scholar, Undergrad studying Environmental Sciences and Environmental Thought and Practice, graduating in May 2027.

Anna has been fascinated by the ocean—and especially sharks—for as long as she can remember. Her favorite species is the scalloped hammerhead, a passion likely sparked by her family’s frequent trips to the North Carolina coast. As she’s grown, that love for the marine world has become a guiding force in both her personal and professional journey.

In high school, she interned at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, Maryland, where she shared her enthusiasm for sharks and conservation with the public. Now a college student, Anna is fully immersing herself in marine conservation and ecology. Her goal is to make a meaningful impact and inspire others to appreciate the incredible creatures she’s loved all her life. She is thrilled to be joining Shark Angels and working toward a future where sharks are understood, valued, and protected.

Outputs: Monthly Chomps, After Bites Quizzes, Shark Videos for Social Media

Shark Angels is helping to grow the next generation of scientists.

Kendall Traiser

Florida Gulf Coast University, Marine Science graduating in the Spring 2026.

Kendall Traiser joined Shark Angels as an intern in Spring 2025. A lifelong shark enthusiast, Kendall grew up in Naples, Florida, spending countless hours at the beach. At just ten years old, Kendall earned a PADI scuba diving certification and went on to complete approximately 400 dives, along with certifications in Advanced Open Water, Enriched Air Nitrox, Rescue Scuba Diver, and Divemaster.

A pivotal moment came at age twelve during a shark diving experience in Jupiter, Florida, which sparked a deeper fascination with these misunderstood predators. Currently pursuing a degree in Marine Science at Florida Gulf Coast University, Kendall is committed to a future in shark conservation. Through the internship with Shark Angels, Kendall has had the opportunity to gain valuable experience, deepen their understanding of shark species, and share that passion with others.

Outputs: Outreach for Auction, Monthly Chomps, After Bite Quizzes, Policy and Legislation Articles

I believe this internship has been a valuable experience for several reasons. It has given me the chance to practice presenting scientific information in a way that is easier for others to understand, especially for those who may not be familiar with science. Before this, I didn’t have much experience presenting to younger audiences or people outside of the science field. Additionally, the internship has helped me gain more experience reading scientific articles and learning how to summarize them clearly and simply.

Greer Jessie

University of Florida, Marine Biology with an Anthropology Minor, May 2025.

Greer has lived in Florida her entire life, with easy access to the state’s beautiful beaches. Her love for the ocean began at a young age—whenever she’s at the beach, you’ll likely find her diving into the waves. A few summers ago, she became SCUBA certified, and that experience transformed her relationship with the ocean. Beneath the surface, Greer found a sense of peace and connection unlike anything she had ever felt, deepening her passion for marine ecosystems and igniting a desire to help protect them. Eager to get involved in marine science and conservation, she discovered Shark Angels—a perfect match for her interests and her love of writing.

Outputs: Monthly Chomps, Shark Science Articles

Emmanuel Ballif

University of Plymouth, Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology, Dec 2025.

Emmanuel is a French marine biology and coastal ecology student at the University of Plymouth in the UK, with a deep fascination for all things ocean-related—particularly shark and ray ecology, fisheries, and behavior. He is passionate about building a career in these fields and is actively involved with several marine-focused charities in both the UK and France, including the Rock Pool Project and Devon Wildlife Trust. Through these organizations, he engages the public in marine conservation efforts, raising awareness about ocean ecosystems. Emmanuel also contributes to eggcase data entry for ELMO and collaborates on scientific publications with GPER, a French shark research group. As part of his role with Shark Angels, he writes articles that not only enhance his science communication skills but also allow him to dive deeper into researching the species he loves.

Outputs: Monthly Chomps

“Through this experience, I learned how to translate complex science into messages everyone can understand—a skill that’s guided me ever since. Today, I work as a Sea-Going Biological Technician, collecting vital data for the groundfish industry. Shark Angels reminded me that science isn’t just about research—it’s about people, communication, and inspiring action.

I’m forever grateful to Jamie and the Shark Angels team for giving me purpose, perspective, and a path to make an impact.”

Hannah Palladino

University of Maine, 2022 Graduate, B.S. in Marine Science with a minor in Fisheries Science, currently pursuing her master’s degree in Fish and Wildlife Administration with a concentration in Fisheries Management at Oregon State University. 

As a Sea-Going Biological Technician aboard NOAA’s research vessel Henry B. Bigelow, she contributes to critical fisheries surveys that inform marine resource management along the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic coasts. A former Shark Angels intern, Hannah helped create educational campaigns advocating for mako shark protection—an experience that strengthened her ability to translate complex science into public action and inspired her continued work bridging research, conservation, and community engagement.

Outputs: Shark Conservation Articles and Videos

I recently had the opportunity to collaborate with Shark Angels by making TikTok videos, and it was an incredibly rewarding experience! The team was passionate and knowledgeable, providing valuable insights into shark behavior and conservation efforts. They made the creative process seamless by offering engaging content ideas and supporting with stunning visuals. I enjoyed using the platform to raise awareness about the importance of shark preservation and the urgent need to protect these incredible creatures. The campaign not only educated my audience but also inspired many to take action, making it a truly impactful partnership. I hope to return to Shark Angels as a content creator, or any other volunteer in the future. Thank you Shark Angels! 

Kirsten Careccia BSN, RN

Kirsten Careccia was raised in Tampa, Florida, where her fascination with sharks began in elementary school. While others preferred to stay on the sand, she was always eager to be in the water, drawn to the ocean and its incredible wildlife. Now living in Georgia, Kirsten volunteers at the Georgia Aquarium and creates educational content for Shark Angels. A certified SCUBA diver, she hopes to one day join the aquarium’s dive team. Professionally, Kirsten works as a Neonatal ICU Nurse, caring for the most vulnerable patients. Just as she strives to make a difference for her tiny patients, she is equally passionate about making a difference for sharks—helping others see them as the beautiful and misunderstood creatures they truly are.

Outputs: Friday FinFact Shark TikToks

This experience had a major impact on my education and career goals. It helped me realize that outreach and policy were areas where I could make the biggest difference, and it gave me the confidence to pursue them. I’m still deeply passionate about marine conservation and will continue to advocate for sharks and healthy ocean ecosystems.

Liel Shachr

University of Florida, Natural Resource Conservation Graduate 2025 with a goal of getting a law degree to advocate for marine and environmental protections.

Liel Shachr grew up on the Florida coast and fell in love with sharks at the age of two after receiving her first shark book. What began as a childhood fascination quickly developed into deep admiration and a lifelong commitment to protecting sharks and the ocean. Liel first discovered Shark Angels in fifth grade and dreamed of one day being part of their mission—a dream that has now become a reality. She is currently pursuing degrees in Natural Resource Conservation and Political Science at the University of Florida, with the goal of advocating for sharks and other marine wildlife through research, education, and policy.

Outputs: Monthly Chomps, Shark Laws and Loopholes Resource Protection Guide

This experience showed me career paths I could take regarding shark conservation, specifically education and policy. I feel proud to have contributed to an organization that holds the same values as I do regarding passion for sharks.

Golda Stewart

Unity Environmental University, Master of Professional Science, Marine Science, August 2023. Nova Southeastern University, Bachelor of Science, Marine Biology, May 2022.

Golda Stewart was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and has been living in South Florida since the summer of 2018. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Biology from Nova Southeastern University and a Master of Professional Science degree in Marine Science from Unity Environmental University. Currently, Golda works as a Parks Naturalist at a nature center, where she teaches children about science, animals, plants, and the environment, while also caring for the resident snakes and turtles.

From an early age, Golda was deeply fascinated by the ocean. The blue water, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life always captured her attention. Among all sea creatures, sharks stood out as the most captivating. The power and grace of these apex predators inspired Golda, and over time, that admiration evolved into a lifelong dream of working with sharks.

I am grateful to Shark Angels for letting me combine my interest in writing and journalism with my passion for sharks! 

Riya Kannon

Georgetown University B.A. Computer Science, Ethics & Society

Riya Kannon is a student at Georgetown University, where she is studying Computer Science. Growing up in North Carolina, she spent much of her life near the coast, developing an early love for the ocean and its diverse marine life—especially sharks. Her passion for marine conservation has driven her to become actively involved in protecting ocean ecosystems. Through Shark Angels, Riya is grateful to combine her love for writing and journalism with her dedication to shark conservation, using storytelling to inspire awareness and appreciation for these remarkable animals.

Outputs: Shark Fact Graphics

Shark Angels helped make understanding shark and marine legislation more approachable and easier to grasp. This experience gave me the confidence to take a Marine Policy course in graduate school, where I felt more prepared and less intimidated by the material thanks to my foundational knowledge of existing laws. It also strengthened my ability to communicate complex scientific topics to the public in a clear, engaging, and accessible way.

Sarah Shannon

Lafayette College B.A Biology and Environmental Studies 2021, Hawai’i Pacific University Masters Degree M.S. Marine Science 2025.

Sarah recently completed a role with the Department of Natural Resources in Forks, Washington, as a resource biologist focused on stream and forest health. With a Master’s in Marine Science, she’s passionate about making conservation accessible and hopes to pursue a Doctorate to become a professor, while potentially working as a park ranger. Sarah joined Shark Angels after reaching out to Jamie to gain hands-on shark conservation experience. As a volunteer, she helped review shark finning and bycatch legislation, managed social media outreach, and led educational presentations for marine science camps. The experience deepened her understanding of marine policy, strengthened her science communication skills, and inspired her continued dedication to ocean conservation.

Outputs: Outreach and Policy Initiatives, Social Media, Educational Presentations

My internship with Shark Angels has been a great experience! It’s my dream to work with sharks, and this opportunity gives me the ability to help raise awareness about how important sharks are, not only for our oceans, but for our planet. This internship is beneficial for my career because it gives me real-world experience working with a shark conservation organization, it allows me to showcase my research and writing skills, and it allows me to network with others in the field. I am grateful for this opportunity, and excited to help educate others about why sharks need to be respected and protected. It’s an honor to work with an organization which does so much for sharks and conservation, and I hope to continue this relationship well into the future!

Candace Drabeck

Everglades University, Marine Resources and Management, 2024.

Candace’s lifelong fascination with sharks deepened into a true passion after a surface cage-diving experience with great white sharks at Guadalupe Island, Mexico. Inspired by this transformative encounter, Candace decided to return to school to pursue a degree that would allow her to work in conservation—protecting sharks, the ocean, and other endangered species. Dedicated to environmental stewardship, she volunteers regularly in local creek, marina, and park cleanups and will soon assist with water quality testing efforts. Now pursuing her dream of working with sharks, Candace was thrilled to contribute to Shark Angels’ mission. Believing that sharks are not only extraordinary but also essential to a healthy planet, she was committed to helping others understand and appreciate these vital animals exactly as they are.

Outputs: Auction, Science Articles, Marketing, Social Media, Research

Jetty Porter

University of Miami RSMAS Bachelor of Science in Biology and Marine Science, 2021.

Jett (they/them) is from Margate, Florida, and is a graduate of the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, where they earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Marine Science. Their passion for studying and protecting sharks began at a young age while growing up near the beaches of South Florida. This early fascination developed into a lifelong commitment to marine conservation as Jett volunteered with several organizations, including shark tagging programs at both the University of Miami’s Shark Research and Conservation Program (SRC) and Nova Southeastern University. In addition to their research interests, Jett is an avid SCUBA diver, lifeguard, and active participant in local environmental and social advocacy efforts.

Outputs: Monthly Chomps, Infographics

Taylor Jagolinzer

University of Miami RSMAS, Marine Science and Biology, 2022.

Taylor (they/them or he/him) graduated in May of 2024 from the University of Miami with dual degrees in Marine Science and Biology and a minor in Chemistry. As an undergraduate, they conducted research on shark feeding ecology and stress physiology, and completed a thesis on amino acid compound-specific isotope analysis of shark tissue. They presented this research at the Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists in 2024. After graduating, they taught at Teton Science Schools, where they connected students to the environment through exploration and place-based education principles. They are currently a Marine Education Fellow with the University of Georgia’s Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant. 

Outputs: Friday Facts, Tiktoks

Mckenna Hardie

Jacksonville University, Master of Science in Marine Science 2025, Florida Institute of Technology, Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology, 2021.

McKenna was born and raised in the small town of Thurmont, Maryland. Before heading to Florida for college, she earned her Open Water and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications through PADI. From a young age, McKenna has been fascinated by sharks and the ocean. Her passion for these misunderstood creatures inspired her to become an advocate for their protection. Recognizing that many people view sharks as dangerous or fearsome rather than beautiful and vital to marine ecosystems, she aims to change that perception through education and outreach. McKenna hopes to inspire others to appreciate and care for sharks, believing—as Jacques Cousteau once said—“People protect what they love.”

Outputs: Shark science communications, Monthly Chomps, Petitions, Legislation, Kids Corner, Outreach, Shark Personality Quiz

My internship with Shark Angels helped me land my first role as a Content Marketing Specialist. While my title was Research Intern, I was immediately trusted with real world marketing tasks, like researching and posting content for their Facebook page and researching facts for their “Monthly Chomp” emails. This hands-on experience meant I could confidently show employers that I wouldn’t require extensive on the job training. I was hired almost on the spot.

Carly Walker

Seminole State College student

What started as a summer interest turned into a lifelong passion. Carly’s been writing notebook after notebook of shark facts and at every opportunity explains their importance in the environment. She’s currently studying marine biology where she will specialize in sharks.

Outputs: Shark Science Communications, Shark Quizzes, Friday Facts

Sophie Maycock

BSc(Hons) MSc Specialist in Shark Behaviour & Conservation, Author

Sophie has been obsessed with sharks since volunteering for a great white ecotourism company in South Africa in 2008. Having completed her degrees at UEA in the UK, Adelaide University in Australia and Leiden University in The Netherlands, Sophie now lives back home in the UK, where she works as a free-lance scientific researcher. She specialises in shark behaviour and conservation, and has a flair for advanced statistical modelling. She is also passionate about communicating science to the general public and joined the Shark Angels in 2021, as a science communication writer. She also volunteers as a science writer for several NGOs and runs her own website, SharkSpeak. Her life goal is to change people’s perceptions about sharks, with the view to gaining public support for shark conservation on a global scale.

Outputs: 365 Daily Bites, Shark Facts for social media

Jackie Reuder

Nova Southeastern University, Marine Biology 2021.

Jackie is originally from Medina, Ohio where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Akron. She fell in love with sharks when she did an internship in Mossel Bay, South Africa working with white sharks. In her spare time she is an avid diver currently working on becoming an instructor to teach others of the beauty beneath the waves.

Outputs: Monthly Chomp, Shark Science Communications

As a passionate shark lover and researcher, I am ecstatic to join Shark Angels and promote awareness and conservation of sharks!

Jessica Schieber

Nova Southeastern University Marine Biology, 2021.

Jessica is a marine biologist from central Florida whose passion for fish and the ocean began in early adolescence. Her deep admiration for fisheries science and conservation inspired her to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology from Nova Southeastern University (NSU) and a Master’s degree in Marine Science with a concentration in Marine Fisheries. Over the past decade, Jessica has gained extensive experience in fisheries research, including her current work with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), where she continues to expand her skills and commitment to sustainable fisheries management. Her research has focused on the age and growth of the yellow stingray (Urobatis jamaicensis) in South Florida, reflecting her enduring curiosity about marine life. A lifelong shark enthusiast—especially fond of mako sharks—Jessica has even gone cage diving with white sharks and looks forward to her next adventure beneath the waves.

Outputs: Mako Shark Science Article

I am delighted to be joining the Shark Angels team and can’t wait to share my passion for sharks and inspire more people to love these amazing animals.

Caroline Lynam

University of Exeter MSc, Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation 2021, Marine Biologist.

Caroline Lynam is a marine biologist from Dublin, Ireland, with a deep-rooted fascination for marine life and a passion for shark conservation. She completed her undergraduate degree in Marine Biology at the University of Aberdeen and earned her MSc in Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation with Distinction from the University of Exeter. Caroline’s research has focused on the spatial and social ecology of sharks, including investigating non-random associations between white sharks off the coast of South Africa. She is particularly passionate about celebrating and protecting the diverse elasmobranch species found in Irish and British waters. An avid diver, Caroline thrives on exploring the underwater world and continues to dedicate her career to marine conservation. She currently works as a Marine Officer for the Marine Management Organisation in the South West of England, where she contributes to the sustainable management and protection of marine ecosystems.

Outputs: Basking Shark Science Communication Article