Meet the 2025 Sanctuary Interns
Every year, we are fortunate to have an outstanding team of young people join our staff as summer interns. We are grateful to the federal government’s Canada Summer Jobs program for making this possible.
Earlier, we profiled the team who worked with the administrative staff this summer.
Now, meet the folks who worked hands-on with the residents at the RAPS Cat Sanctuary.
Katie Meister
What and where are you studying?
I’m studying Chemical and Environmental Technology at BCIT, going into my second and final year.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Richmond.
Why did you choose to work at RAPS?
I chose to work at RAPS because I volunteered at the Sanctuary off and on since 2013, and I have always enjoyed the cats and the people. I appreciate how much work it is to run the Sanctuary, and I wanted to be more involved in RAPS’ mission to give all cats (no matter how old, sick, or feral) a chance at a good life.
Do you have a pet?
My parents have a Black Lab/German Shepherd/Mastiff cross named Tobi who is a handful to say the least, but I love him with all my heart. I’m also hoping to adopt a cat once I move to a pet-friendly housing situation!
What do you do in your spare time?
In my spare time I like to read, crochet, and do outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and swimming.
What are you super passionate about?
I’m passionate about nature and learning about different species of plants and animals. As a result, I try to minimize my negative impact on the environment through participating in litter cleanups, cooking delicious vegan food, and thrifting and recycling.
Future plans?
I hope to work in environmental remediation, testing for soil and water contamination in oil/gas and mining sites. I would also love to work in agriculture to help improve soil quality for crops.
Anything else about you that you would like to share?
I love to dance, and I’ve tried everything from ballet to pole dancing and aerial silks. I am also weirdly passionate about soil science and will get very excited over soil colours and chemistry!
Catie McDonald
What and where are you studying?
I am studying Biology at the University of Victoria.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in South Surrey/White Rock.
Why did you choose to work at RAPS?
I have always been very passionate about animal care and welfare, and I love helping others. I believe that animals bring many mental and physical benefits to humans, and I wanted to be a part of an organization that helps so many cats no matter their background. Additionally, I love animal biology and have always been eager to gain more experience working with animals.
Working at the RAPS Cat Sanctuary has been an amazing first glimpse into the field of veterinary medicine. I have learned so much about different medical conditions affecting cats and how to care for cats’ complex illnesses.
Do you have a pet?
Yes, my family has a yellow Labrador retriever named Emiko and a Holland lop rabbit named Benjamin. I love them both so much- they bring so much joy to our family:)
What do you do in your spare time?
I love the outdoors! I like going hiking, running, or playing sports like basketball and soccer with my friends. I am also a huge Harry Potter fan so in the evenings or on rainy days I love to rewatch any of the movies!
What are you super passionate about?
I am happiest when I am in nature, whether that be running or taking my dog for an evening walk. My passion for nature and the outdoors along with owning pets sparked my fascination and love of wildlife and animal care. I love reading wildlife information books and watching David Attenborough Planet Earth documentaries. One of my dream scenarios would be to work with/care for wildlife in a remote location in BC. Besides nature and the outdoors, I am super passionate about helping others through volunteering with different charities, and most recently I have been loving coaching as a way to give back to the community.
Future plans?
I hope to finish my undergraduate degree in biology and apply to veterinary school in Canada or abroad. I also want to travel more and eventually visit Australia!
Anything else about you that you would like to share?
I actually have a twin sister; she visited the Cat Sanctuary recently and loved it! My favourite foods are coconut and raspberries. My mom has a big raspberry bush in her garden, and I love picking raspberries from it for my breakfast each morning!
Anna Sorokina
What and where are you studying?
I am going into my 5th year at the University of Victoria, majoring in Chemistry for the Medical Sciences.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Richmond.
Why did you choose to work at RAPS?
I love animals (especially cats!) and wanted to be a part of an organization that truly makes a difference.
Do you have a pet?
Yes! I have an orange tabby cat, hamster, fish, and budgies at home.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love spending time outdoors, including hiking and stand-up paddle boarding.
What are you super passionate about?
I’m passionate about caring for animals and connecting with nature.
Future plans?
I hope to continue my studies and eventually work in the healthcare field. Specifically, veterinary medicine or pharmaceutical science.
Anything else about you that you would like to share?
One accomplishment I’m very proud of is at the Sanctuary. I had a huge part in building the new wooden walkway between Pens 1 and 2. I learned many new skills (thanks to Ken!) including, operating a chop saw, air nail gun, and compact drill.
