Does this sound good to you?

[SpartaDog]

I've been looking to dive into the hobby a little deeper, and found a breeder/seller/rescuer not too far from me. Do you think I worded this well?

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Dear Mr. Smith,

I am 17 and just got into the reptile hobby about 2 years ago. It started out as just a pet, but before I knew it I was hooked. I've got a leopard gecko, a ball python, and a juvenile BCI at the moment, with plans for more. I've become so passionate about reptiles that I find myself reading about them in my spare time, drawing and painting them, and I am positive that I want to breed in the future.

The reason I am contacting you is that I have a feeling it will be hard to get started down that path without some help. I would be forever grateful if I could help in your facility. I am willing to clean cages, feed animals, take records/inventory, and move males around for breeding. I would also love to tag along on one of your educational programs, as I've always wanted to do that myself (I came close this summer, but plans fell through). If you don't want me to handle some of the animals, I am perfectly fine with speaking while another staff member handles them. My teachers have told me on several occasions that I am very skilled at public speaking.

I am aware of the work that goes into keeping reptiles and a general knowledge of many species' specific requirements. My specialty lies with snakes, specifically pythons, boas, and the more common colubrid species (king snakes, corn snakes, rat snakes, etc), and I do not know many specifics on lizards, chelonians, and other animals, but I am willing and eager to learn. Additionally, I attend the Marine Academy of Technology and Environmental Science in Stafford Township, so I have a firm background in biology, ecology, and research, and a slightly more than basic understanding of genetics.

As supportive as my parents are in regards to my passion for keeping reptiles, they are unwilling to allow any more, for the time being. Therefore, it goes without saying that getting experience working with a wider variety of species is impossible without working with someone else's collection. I would also like to expand my understanding of herpetocultural technology, especially rack systems and heating equipment, as well as the breeding process for both colubrids and constrictors.

Pay would be appreciated, however low, but I would be more than willing to volunteer if need be.

I live in Manahawkin, so I will need to work out transportation with my parents until I get my own license, but I don't think this should be an issue at all.

Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.

Yours truly,
Christina Jacob
Young and hopeful herper

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Also, if you guys know any breeders in Ocean County, NJ that would be willing to lend me a hand, please, have them contact me! Thank you!

[llovelace]

I wish someone would send me a letter like that lol, I'd love to have someone else around on cleaning days . I hope it works out for you

[SpartaDog]

Well I may or may not be going to college in Florida next year, so who knows!

[zach_24_90]

Sounds good. Where at in Florida?

[SpartaDog]

Either Tampa or St. Petersburg. Looking at University of Tampa and Eckerd College.