About
When Weslee Nehl graduated from Carroll College in 2021 with a degree in Anthrozoology, she knew she wanted a career working with animals. Today, she's living that dream as the Animal Ambassador Supervisor at a nonprofit zoo and wildlife rehabilitation center, where she oversees more than 70 permanent resident animals and helps educate the public about wildlife conservation.
For Weslee, choosing Carroll felt like coming home.
"My grandpa coached women's basketball, my mom played basketball, and several of my aunts and uncles attended Carroll," she said. "On top of that, the Anthrozoology program was exactly what I was looking for. It's such a unique degree, and I was also fortunate to receive a golf scholarship, allowing me to continue playing the sport I love."
That combination of family tradition, academics, and athletics made Carroll the perfect fit.
One of the most influential parts of Weslee's education came through the hands-on experiences offered in the Anthrozoology program. During her junior year, she trained shelter dogs in basic obedience, an opportunity that became the foundation of her career.
"The animal training I learned at Carroll was the ideal starting point for everything I do now," she said. "Since graduating, I've trained grizzly bears, bobcats, bald eagles, owls, crows, and many other species. Without the fundamentals I learned at Carroll, I definitely wouldn't be where I am today."
Carroll's small class sizes also helped Weslee build confidence in another essential skill: public speaking.
"As a wildlife conservation educator, public speaking is a huge part of my job," she explained. "Because Carroll is a smaller college, I was able to build confidence speaking to smaller groups before presenting to larger audiences. That experience prepared me in ways I didn't fully realize until after graduation."
One connection at Carroll changed the course of her career in an unexpected way.
During her senior year, biology professor Brandon Schaefer encouraged Weslee to apply for a position at ExplorationWorks caring for a colony of live fruit bats featured in a traveling exhibit. While she had previous experience volunteering with rehabilitated black bears and ambassador birds, she had never worked with bats.
That opportunity sparked an unexpected passion.
"I fell in love with bats," Weslee said. "Learning about them, caring for them, and educating the public completely changed my perspective. They're now my favorite animal and one of my favorite topics to teach others about."
She also credits Professors Molly Sumridge and Marie Suthers for supporting her throughout her time at Carroll, especially during the challenges of her senior year.
Looking back, Weslee says the relationships she built are just as meaningful as the education she received.
"My first day at Carroll was overwhelming, but I'd do it all again," she said. "The friends I made are lifelong, and the education I received through the Anthrozoology program became the foundation of my career."
When asked what she would tell prospective students considering Carroll, her answer is simple.
"Carroll is small, but mighty," she said. "Because of the small campus and class sizes, you truly get to know your professors. That makes it easier to ask questions, seek support, and build meaningful relationships. The campus is beautiful, the community is welcoming, and it's an incredible place to grow, especially if you're looking for a supportive environment."
From training shelter dogs in Helena to caring for wildlife and inspiring future conservationists every day, Weslee's journey is a testament to the lasting impact of a Carroll education.
