Animal science senior pursues a lifelong passion for veterinary medicine through hands-on learning and global service experiences
Where are you from, and why did you decide to attend the Herbert College of Agriculture at the University of Tennessee?
I am from Knoxville, Tennessee, and I chose to attend the University of Tennessee because of the academics and atmosphere. I have always been a “Vol for Life,” and I knew UT was the place for me. When I stepped into the Herbert College of Agriculture, I was immediately welcomed by all the faculty and staff, which made a big school feel small. I love the close-knit and family-like aspects of Herbert.
What inspired you to major in animal science, and what do you enjoy most about this field?
I grew up wanting to be a veterinarian. I originally was a biology major, but that never felt quite right. Switching into animal science furthered my younger self’s dreams and revealed to me that I was on the right path. My favorite part of this field is being able to make an impact on both animals’ and peoples’ lives through care, conservation, and education.
Have there been any specific classes, internship experiences, or professors at Herbert that have had a significant impact on your academic journey?
Anatomy 220 was my favorite class! Dr. Daniel Mathew made learning a complex topic fun and interesting and fueled my passion for anatomy. This class created a foundation for some of the classes that followed, such as reproduction with Dr. Kyle McLean and health management with Dr. Paxton Parker, which were also very compelling!
Between organizations, teaching assistant roles, and ambassador work, you stay very involved on campus. What have you enjoyed most about being active in extracurricular activities at UT?
Through Herbert I’ve been able to be a part of organizations like the UT College of Veterinary Medicine Junior Ambassadors where I get to interact with the public interested in learning more about the Herbert College of Agriculture, The Pre-Veterinary Association where I have met so many like-minded friends that I have had classes and formed study groups with, bonded over vet school applications, and enjoyed each other’s company outside of school! Being a teaching assistant, I have met other students who have a passion for some of the same topics I do, such as anatomy, and connected with younger students who have asked me for advice as someone who has previously gone through the same classes.
Overall, the community at Herbert has allowed me to connect with students and faculty that I otherwise might not have. Everyone on the Ag Campus is supportive and understanding, and wants to see you succeed! Meeting new people and trying new things in these roles at first was uncomfortable, but the outcome has been so rewarding and has provided me with valuable skills I will carry with me beyond graduation.
How has being part of the Herbert community impacted your personal and professional development?
I have grown a lot as a person over the past four years. I have pushed myself academically and professionally to learn what all I’m capable of. Herbert has developed my skills in communication, teamwork, and accountability, just to name a few, and I’m so thankful for the ways this school has given me opportunities and allowed me to grow.
What have been some of the most memorable opportunities you’ve had outside the classroom while studying animal science?
I have been abroad three times, including trips to Nicaragua, Belize, and Africa, and I found a passion for helping those in lesser fortunate areas. The impact extends beyond the animal and often beyond the owner and into the communities. Being able to give something as simple as time and resources goes further than you would ever realize.
These experiences have taught me how to adapt culturally and appreciate the different backgrounds that everyone comes from. Every person I’ve encountered abroad has been so thankful for the impact the volunteers make, even if it’s small, and I’m so fortunate and grateful that I am in the position to be able to go and support these communities.
How has your experience in the Herbert College of Agriculture shaped your career plans and prepared you to enter the field?
Herbert has allowed me to gain the education and experiences to become a veterinarian! From hands-on labs in almost every animal science class to internships at the UT Extension office locations, I really would not be able to accomplish and achieve this dream without their support. Herbert has been such a backbone for my success at UT Knoxville, and I feel so blessed to have them in my corner.
You’ve gained experience with a wide range of animals, from dairy cattle to piglets to zoo animals. Which of those experiences stands out the most to you and why?
The experience that stands out the most to me is my trip to Africa. I was able to connect with other pre-vet students from across the world, gain hands-on experience with exotic animals such as baboons, lions, different avian species, and African rock pythons! I was also able to volunteer at a local school and visit a homestead to learn more about African culture and their practices. Every individual I encountered on this trip was thankful for our help and was so supportive of all of the students’ future aspirations!
What advice would you give to other Herbert students who want to gain a variety of hands-on experiences with animals?
I would tell them to get involved early! Start meeting with faculty to ask them about what research opportunities they have or if they know anyone who is looking for an undergraduate assistant. I would recommend the student-work program through UT, which allows you to work at any East Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center unit and start volunteering anywhere that will take volunteers. I think it’s important to get an abundance of hands-on experience with different species, not just the ones you’re most interested in. Participating in an internship during the summer semester is a great time to try something new!
Looking ahead, what are your career goals, and how do you hope to make an impact in the field of agriculture?
As a future veterinarian, I hope to be able to contribute in numerous ways, but especially in the public health sector. Working at the East Tennessee AgResearch and Education Little River Unit has instilled a passion in me for food animals and the importance of caring for them well. I would love to be able to contribute to their health through care and research to ensure everyone else who consumes their products stays healthy.
What are some of your hobbies or a fun fact about you that people might be surprised to learn?
A fun fact about me is that I love to run! I have run four half marathons and am currently training for a full marathon. I hope to be able to continue this passion throughout vet school to relieve stress and take a break from studying, as well as finding a community that feels the same! I also enjoy water sports and spend a lot of my time in the summer on a wakesurf board in the lakes around Knoxville!
