What is a $35-50k on average job where I can work directly with wild animals?

It would depend on how high of a degree you earn, experience, and WHO you work for. Yes, these jobs can be in that pay range..but it would depend on all of the above. Yes, as a zoology major you will have to take lots of chemistry and physics, which are both basically a lot of math. If math is not your strong point you may need a tutor to get through these. If you are strong at your science based classes..this should help your GPA if you don't get great grades in the "math" classes. General Ed is general Ed...same requirements for all majors. Once you transfer to a 4 year university is when you will take all your specialized classes. Do get all your general ed out of the way before then as it is a lot cheaper to do it at a community college.