Student Spotlight
Hometown: Manteno, IL
Major: Biology, Animal Ecology
Why did you choose Iowa State University?
I chose Iowa State University because I loved the small town, big campus feel to it. I knew going into college being pre-veterinary medicine, I would get the opportunity to partake in impactful experiences to prepare me for graduate school.
How did you become interested in your major?
In high school, I took AP biology and I loved learning about cellular biology! I figured biology would be the best major to prepare me for veterinary school. I learned about animal ecology through an animal behavior class I took, and I quickly learned I had a passion for exotic animals!
What are your current goals following graduation?
I am attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine this fall! I hope to one day specialize, but I’m still learning what I’m most passionate about!
Campus Activities: While my time at ISU, I participated in a number of clubs and organizations like, Biological Sciences Club, Pre-Vet Club, Sigma Kappa Sorority, Order of Omega Honor Society, Tri-Beta Biological Honor Society, Dance Marathon, and being a peer mentor for the BEST learning community. All of these have taught me about what it’s like to be a leader, stay organized, and be a better communicator. I genuinely wouldn’t be the same person had I not taken advantage of every opportunity that came my way in my undergraduate years, and I became a better person because of it.
Work experience: I have worked at a small animal veterinary clinic back near my hometown since the summer after freshman year. I am a veterinary assistant, and have learned so much about how a clinic works, as well as the fundamental skills needed to know going into the field of veterinary medicine. Not only that, this opportunity made me realize I picked the best career path and am confident for my future.
Study abroad experience: I participated in BIOL 3940- the trip to Roatan, Honduras for the Caribbean Marine Biology Field course. This was such a life-changing experience, and I learned so much about the Mesoamerican Reef System and how the oceans are changing. I also became scuba-certified for this trip, and had a blast diving with a great group of people. I also traveled to Guatemala through a study abroad program through ISU’s College of Veterinary Medicine for a Wildlife Rehabilitation course. I had the opportunity to learn how veterinary medicine is practiced in a different country, and work with exotic animals while building my skills in the field. I think this was such an eye-opening experience that exposed me to the illegal pet trade, and gave me insight into what organizations like the one I volunteered at do to re-release injured animals.
What are a few things you love about your major and department?
I love how there are so many resources and staff members that are there to support you in any way they can. Being a peer mentor for the biology department, I love how the department works from the first day of your classes to build a community within this major and make you feel most at home!
How would you fill in the blank for high school students interested in your field?
“You’re going to love studying the sciences at Iowa State because ….”
There are SO many opportunities for you to learn what you are most interested in or prepare you for graduate school as long as you take advantage of them!
Do you have an example of how a professor or staff member has supported you at Iowa State?
Dr. Sakaguchi- I’ve gotten the chance to get to know him since freshman year throughout various organizations, and he has given me endless support in preparing me for graduate school and just overall being a friendly face on campus to talk to!
Last comments
My best advice for new students is... to ensure that you give yourself enough you-time. Classes can be exhausting and burn-out is very relevant for this major, but a good work/life balance and setting time aside for yourself definitely helps relieve that stress. Also, having a good support system to help that is very important too, so make sure to lean on your friends when you need them!