Hailing from Brazil, meet Felipe, animal care intern extraordinaire, who spent more than 2 months helping with health checks, barn cleanings, and animal feedings. See what he has to say about his time spent at the sanctuary.
How did you develop your interest in vegan lifestyle?
I had been vegetarian for almost 7 years before going vegan. I went vegan after discussions with my friends and doing internet research. Being at Animal Place offered an environment with like-minded people supporting my choice to be vegan, which was helpful. I’m about to complete my first year being a vegan!
Is there a particular animal on the farm that you connect with?
I have a lot of favorite animals at the sanctuary, but I connected with Cornelius, one of the goats. He is so friendly and interested in people, so it was easy to develop a good friendship.
Besides animals, what else are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about all things music. I play drums and love to play music with my friends. I also like bicycling and other outdoor sports.
What advice would you give people interested in transitioning to a vegan diet?
My advice is to do the transition from omnivore to vegan as you feel comfortable with, but never forget your goals and why you started. Being vegan is a good opportunity to learn more about food, being creative in the kitchen, and finding out new foods that helps you to eat healthfully.
Have you learned anything in your internship at Animal Place that you can apply to a future career or your home life?
I know I’ll be able to take what I learned at Animal Place and apply it everywhere! Most importantly though, in both my personal and professional life, I’ll always think about how every action has an impact. Our actions impact the environment, animals, and people and we must live with respect for everyone.
What has been your most memorable experience in the Animal Place internship program?
My most memorable experience was the rescue of 1500 hens. What I saw and felt being in that egg farm solidified why I am vegan. It was hard to be at the farm, but the moment was so valuable as we literally saved lives. Being a part of that experience and seeing the conditions that those hens are confined to for their shorts lives will make me a better activist wherever I go. It’s definitely something that I will never forget.
Do you have any advice to anyone interested in applying to the Animal Place internship program?
First, congratulations, you’re special! Volunteering your time and efforts on behalf of farmed animals is something most people don’t do. My advice for those interested in Animal Place’s internship program is to ask former interns about their experience, as well as visit the sanctuary. It’s hard work, but interning can be one of the most incredible experiences of your life, as it was to me.
Interested in interning? Apply for a life-changing residential internship with Animal Place!
