Britney M.

Free
Address ● Number ● Email

EDUCATION
Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, MO Anticipated Graduation: December 2023
Bachelor of Science
• Major: Biology
• GPA: 3.78

WORK EXPERIENCE
Zookeeper Intern Summer 2023
Dickerson Park Zoo, Springfield, MO
• Assisted in the daily care and husbandry of a diverse collection of animals within the
bird, primate, and reptile exhibits.
• Developed and implemented behavioral enrichment activities to promote naturalistic
behaviors enhancing animal welfare and visitor engagement.
• Monitored animal health by maintaining detailed records of behavior, diet, and any
notable changes to assist the veterinary staff in providing comprehensive animal care.
• Contributed to Dickerson Park Zoo’s conservation mission by engaging with visitors and
providing insights into the importance of conservation efforts for the species under care.
• Collaborated with the events team to set up for the 'Ball of the Wild' fundraiser.
• Assisted in the maintenance of enclosures and habitats to meet the highest standards of
cleanliness and to mimic natural environments, thereby improving the quality of life for
the animals.
Ice Cream Server Summer 2022
Cabana Ice Cream, St. Joesph, MO
• Delivered exceptional customer service in a high-volume ice cream shop, serving up to
300 customers daily during peak summer months, ensuring a friendly and welcoming
environment.
• Managed financial transactions with accuracy using POS systems, maintaining
accountability for cash drawer contents and credit card transactions.
Pet Sitter 2019-2021
Self Employed, Joplin, MO
• Provided in-home pet care services for over 4 repeat clients, including feeding, walking,
and medication administration, ensuring comfort and health of pets while owners were
away.
• Managed scheduling and client communications to coordinate service dates, special care
instructions, and emergency contact information, resulting in 100% customer satisfaction
rate.
• Created and maintained detailed daily logs for each pet, documenting all activities,
behaviors, and any incidents to ensure transparency and trust with clients.

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SKILLS
Proficient with
• Microsoft Excel
• Google Suite
• 5S / Lean Principles
Familiar with
• ArcGIS Pro
• Gel electrophoresis
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Microscopy (Light)
• Pipetting
• Past4 Software
• PCR
• Microsoft Visio
• Antiseptic Techniques
• AutoCAD
• Western blotting

PROJECTS AND COURSEWORK

Herpetology Spring 2023
Missouri Southern State University
• Gained practical experience in herpetofaunal survey techniques using coverboards, hoop
nets, and direct observation methods.
• Developed skills in herpetological taxonomy, identifying various species and contributing
to the curation of a comprehensive collection.
• Participated in field excursions, enhancing understanding of reptile and amphibian
ecology, behavior, and conservation needs.
Mammalogy Spring 2022
Missouri Southern State University
• Conducted fieldwork involving small mammal trapping using raccoon and Sherman
traps, acquiring skills in ethical trapping and handling techniques.
• Learned the process of preparing and preserving mammal specimens, including skinning
and mounting for taxonomy collection.
• Curated and maintained a collection, gaining insights into mammalian biodiversity,
systematics, and morphological adaptations.
Principles of Biology II Spring 2021
Missouri Southern State University
• Engaged Collaborated effectively with classmates in experimental design and execution,
gathering empirical data on plant interactions in various competitive environments.
Conservation and Community Engagement Fall 2020
Missouri Southern State University, Honors Service-Learning Project
• Orchestrated a conservation initiative in collaboration with the Missouri Conservation
Department, concentrating on the preservation of monarch butterflies and their habitats.
• Acquired and applied practical skills in graphic design and communication by crafting
informative posters and an engaging slideshow presentation to enhance public awareness.
• Leveraged online platforms and digital tools to navigate and overcome the challenges
posed by COVID-19 restrictions, ensuring the project's outreach and continuity.
• Investigated the characteristics of effective team structures, identifying key factors that
contribute to both team success and common challenges.
Essential Professional Skills Fall 2020
Missouri Southern State University
• Applied Lean Principles and the 5S methodology in practical scenarios to enhance
workplace safety and operational efficiency.
• Investigated the characteristics of effective team structures, identifying key factors that
contribute to both team success and common challenges.
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PRESENTATIONS
Free, B. 2023. Keeper Talk: Aldabra Tortoises. Dickerson Park Zoo, Springfield, MO. Oral
Presentation.
Free, B. 2020. Monarch Butterfly Conservation in Missouri. Joplin School District, Joplin, MO.
Oral and PowerPoint Presentation.
Free, B. 2019. Roundup, Glyphosate, and the Rise of Modern Disease. Missouri Southern State
University, Joplin, MO. Oral and PowerPoint Presentation.

AWARDS AND HONORS

• Evans Trust Honors Tuition from MSSU (Fall 2019-Spring 2023; $26,000)
• Study Abroad Travel Grant from MSSU (Spring 2023; $1,000)
• A+ Scholarship (Fall 2019; $1,000)

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE
• Missouri Southern State University Trash Clean Up, 3+ hours, 2023—present
• Ball of the Wild Dickerson Park Zoo, 6+ hours, 2023
• Missouri Southern Trail Restoration Project, 15+ hours, 2020-2022
• Missouri Conservation Department Trash Clean Up, 2+ hours, 2021
• Monarch Waystation Project, 25+ hours, 2020-2021
• Joplin High School Band, 120+ hours, 2019-2021
• Royal Heights Elementary, 2+ hours, 2019
• Missouri Conservation Department Trash Clean Up, 4+ hours, 2019
• NHS Volunteer Activities, 30+ hours, 2017-2019
• Salvation Army, 16+ hours, 2017-2019
• Joplin Humane Society, 120+ hours, 2017-2018

INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE
Belize (2023)
• Participated in biodiversity surveys focusing on both terrestrial and marine ecosystems of
Belize.
• Engaged in hands-on learning about local conservation efforts, understanding the
challenges and strategies used in preserving biodiversity in Belize.
• Developed a comprehensive understanding of the impact of human activities on natural
habitats and the importance of conservation efforts in maintaining ecological balance.
France / Spain (2018)
• Explored diverse regions across France and Spain over a two-week period, gaining a deep
appreciation for European cultures, histories, and languages.

CERTIFICATIONS
• CITI Program Certifications in Working with the IACUC, Working with Amphibians
in Research Settings, Working with Mice in Research Settings, Working with Rats in
Research Settings, and Wildlife Research.

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PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Kansas Herpetological Society (2022–present)
National Wildlife Society (2021–present)

PORTFOILIO
A more in-depth look at my experiences can be viewed at: https://britneyfree.weebly.com/