SANFORD, Fla. — Finding the right job can be difficult for anyone, but for people with disabilities, that task can be even tougher. A Lake Mary High School student is thriving thanks to a job where she can teach people about the wilder side of Central Florida.

What You Need To Know

  • Sophia Smith has autism and faces some cognitive challenges

  • Smith works at the Central Florida Zoo where she educates guests about animals  

  • Her job is part of a partnership between the zoo and EmployU, an agency that finds the right employment opportunities for people with disabilities  

  • It’s work that’s not only helping Smith now, but it’s also giving her experience in what could become a lifelong career

Sophia Smith has autism and faces some cognitive challenges. On a typical walk with her to her work assignment at the Central Florida Zoo, she’s on a mission, and all about focusing on the work at hand.

Her job is part of a partnership between the zoo and EmployU, an agency that finds the right employment opportunities for people with disabilities. That includes young people like Smith who are still figuring out what work they’re interested in.

“They’re building those skills, whether it’s communication, time management, problem solving, and then they can take that into their forever dream job,” said Amy Garner, an employment specialist with EmployU.

Once set up at her workstation, it’s easy to see how much Smith thrives while teaching zoo guests about animals.

“I was so impressed. I literally started to tear up because to see her just blossom and talk to people,” said Garner. “Where she’s usually so reserved, and now she’s animated and communicating. As soon as she gets behind that cart, she’s like, let me share what I know. And I’m so proud of her.”

Just a couple of months in, Smith’s opportunity at the zoo has helped her realize why she likes this type of work.

“I want to teach them how to work with animals too. I want to be a teacher when I’m older,” said Smith.

Emilie Alfonso, who works for the zoo, also helps connects teens with opportunities.

“When we’re talking to her, yes she’s friendly and all that, but the second a guest walks up to her and starts talking to her it’s like a whole switch turned back on and she’s completely all lit up and excited to talk about the animals, and I think that connection with the animals is what helps teens like her get really excited,” said Alfonso.

It’s work that’s not only helping Smith now, but it’s also giving her experience in what could become a lifelong career.

“Here she is blossoming,” said Garner. “She has a passion for animals. She can remember facts about animals that I even struggle with, and it’s so impressive.”