Which animal best describes YOU?

By Casey Smith, Naturalist
Much like the Patronus from Harry Potter, we all have an animal we associate with our inner self. Picking a cat means you work well independently. A dog is intelligent, friendly, and loyal. Some people go with a horse to show they are hard workers. And others pick an ant because they work well as part of a team.

We are currently conducting interviews for our seasonal education staff. My favorite question during interviews is “Which animal best describes you?” It always tends to be a question that stumps people. Most people really must give it some thought, though there are some who know their animal right away. I love this question because it can give us insight into how people perceive themselves. I used this question when I worked for another park district, interviewing candidates for a camp counselor position. One interview was going horribly. This person answered the phone during the interview, and I already knew this candidate would not be getting the job. Then I asked my favorite question, “Which animal best describes you?” and the answer was: “Oh I don’t know, something nocturnal and predatory.” That was the wrong answer for a camp counselor position.

So which animal best describes me? When you come to a program at Preservation Parks, you expect it to be engaging, fun, and educational. You expect the person leading the program to be friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. So as a Naturalist, I must be a performer of sorts. But when I’m not at work, I would prefer to spend time at home with my family. I’ve been told I’m an introverted extrovert. I will be the center of attention at work, but I avoid crowds when not working. That’s why when asked my favorite interview question, my answer is the Leafy Sea Dragon. The fact that it’s an unconventional animal and a little weird is already one look into my personality. Leafy Sea Dragons are adept at blending in with their surroundings, but take them away from the seaweed, and they stand out. I love my job as a Naturalist. I love that I get to be one of the people who provide public programs, talking to new people, educating, and entertaining. But it’s still nice to have that camouflage time at home.

Now it’s your turn, click here to go to our Facebook page, find the picture of the Leafy Sea Dragon, and tell us which animal best describes you!