I'm lucky to go to a high school with a Veterinarian CTAE pathway. When I graduate, I will have completed both the Veterinary Science and Small Animal Companionship pathways. 

I've been in FFA all 4 years of high school. My leadership roles have included Historian (Sophomore), Barn Manager (Junior) and Vice President (Senior). My favorite role has been Barn Manager because I got to lead a group of more than 100 of my peers, and I was responsible for the care of miniature horses, miniature cows, rabbits, pigs, goats, chickens, and guinea pigs. I had to learn to care for all of these animals as part of the program, because I did not grow up on a farm and had never had exposure to them before. 

As a freshman, I placed first in state in FFA's Junior Veterinary Science CDE competition. This year, as a senior, my team won FFA's National Championship in Veterinary Science! Individually, I placed third in the country. This is a really tough competition and our team spent many hours studying and practicing with the support of our great advisors. As described by FFA, it's "... a competitive event that tests the participant's ability to apply veterinary science knowledge and skill in practical settings as well as identify breeds, parasites and equipment. Participants also complete a written exam and respond to scenario questions about current topics in the veterinary industry. Teams present to a panel of judges about the roles and responsibilities of the veterinary team in a variety of situations involving patients from companion animal to large animal." 

I also applied to and have served as an Atlanta Zoo Volunteen for the last two years. This program "... promotes the personal and professional development of teenagers so that they become leaders in animal science and conservation education." In my second year I've been promoted to Outback Station Husbandry Aide. In that role I help zookeepers with daily tasks and learn about the maintenance and training of ambassador animals like goats, tortoises, and Patagonian maras which come into direct contact with guests.

These are some of my top accomplishments. I hope they show I've committed my time to animal care and learning as much as I can about animal science. 

I also make sure I have balance in my life and spend time doing other things I really enjoy. I love to knit and crochet. As someone who enjoys structure, I love that I can be creative while still following rules and patterns. I use knitting/crocheting as a way to relax. I am also a MASSIVE Harry Styles fan; I have been to seven of his concerts. And I'm very lucky to have been able to travel to 19 different countries, which has allowed me to experience the world beyond my town and daily life. I love getting out of my comfort zone, which has included ziplining in Costa Rica, hiking a volcano in Ecuador, and mountain carting in the Swiss Alps.  Also? I love cheese, Formula 1 racing, my 3-legged rescue dog Arizona, and my comfort show "Friends."