The Exotic Animal Training Management (EATM) center is known throughout the nation as one of the best teaching zoos. But what is it like to attend EATM as a student for the first time?

EATM has one hundred students and fifty-two are accepted into each year for a two-year program. The first-years are mainly in charge of cleaning up the pens and becoming acquainted with the animals. Although jobs can be a little dirty, Kasey Crabb, a first-year EATM student, loves what she does.

“I always knew that I wanted to work with animals,” said Crabb.

The second years work more directly with the animals and train them.

“We really want to give honor to the second-years,” said Crabb. “They do so much work here. Everything with the animals has to do with trainers.”

EATM students come from all over the nation. Erin Stefanik, another first-year student, moved from Ohio to study at the EATM center.

“I decided to get my bachelor’s degree first in zoology and then came here after I graduated,” said Stefanik. “I really got to put a lot into it because I did move from Ohio.”

Even as first-years, the students really get to know the animals. Crabb introduced us to Denny the Scottish Highland Cow and Walter the Water Buffalo.

“Whenever Denny goes out for shows, Walter cries out because he doesn’t want to be alone,” said Crabb.

“He’ll only be gone for twenty minutes and Walter will be whining the entire time,” added Stefanik. “You can hear it from across the field.”

Other than being open to the public from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., EATM hosts special events throughout the year. Their largest fundraiser of the year called the Spring Spectacular is coming up on March 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, and 30. Spring Spectacular will feature up-close animal presentations, VIP tours of the zoo and even a kid’s zone for the children.

“It’s a big family event and it’s going to be super fun so please come,” said Crabb.

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids and seniors.