Externship - Veterinary Student (Jan - May 2028)

About the role

The Texas State Aquarium (TSA) provides an exciting opportunity for veterinary students to gain experience in clinical medicine and rescue/rehabilitation medicine of aquatic species. The Texas State Aquarium, located on the Corpus Christi waterfront, is an AZA-accredited facility that focuses on species found in the Gulf and the Caribbean Sea. The animal collection consists largely of aquatic species but also includes terrestrial birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a few terrestrial mammals. The Wildlife Rescue Center operated by the aquarium serves to rehabilitate mostly sea turtles and on occasion marine mammals.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with the TSA's veterinary staff (two full-time veterinarians and two licensed veterinary technicians) in the medical management of a large captive display collection
• Assist with stranded animals presenting to the wildlife rescue center
• Be flexible with schedule, as procedures may be scheduled outside of regular hours depending on medical needs
• Be available to help on weekends if asked

Qualifications

• Open to students that will be in their 3rd, or more preferably, 4th year of veterinary school at the time of their stay at TSA
• Each position is a minimum of 2 weeks and a maximum of 4 weeks depending on the student's availability
• Preference given to those with previous experience in aquatic animal medicine and/or those interested in pursuing a related field post-graduation

Schedule

• Generally Monday through Friday, 8a-5p
• Positions available from January to May 2028
• Externship blackout dates include the IAAAM conference week in May

Application information

• Application period: September 1 – December 1, 2026
• Applicants will be notified of acceptance by December 31, 2026
• Parking at the aquarium is provided

Required application materials

• Curriculum vitae/resume
• Letter of intent reflecting the applicant's externship goals, future career goals and any prior zoo/aquatic/exotic experience
• Proof of enrollment in a veterinary school through an electronic copy of a veterinary school transcript (unofficial is acceptable)
• 2 letters of reference
• 3 sets of available dates in order of preference during the period between January 1 - May 31, 2028

For additional questions or inquiries, please e-mail to vet@msaquarium.org.