I was lucky to attend a high school with a Veterinary Science CTAE pathway. I graduated having completed both the Veterinary Science and Small Animal Companionship pathways.

I was in FFA all 4 years of high school. My leadership roles within FFA included Historian (Sophomore), Barn Manager (Junior) and Vice President (Senior). My favorite role was Barn Manager because I oversaw the operation of the high school barn and the care of our animals. In that role, I created volunteer and instructor schedules to ensure that the animals were always being cared for, and I instructed my peers in proper cleaning, care, feeding, and basic medical knowledge for miniature horses, cows, chickens, rabbits, pigs, goats, and guinea pigs. I had spent the two years prior learning to care for all of these animals because I did not grow up on a farm and had never had exposure to them before. 

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 my great advisor Dr. Jessica Kirk, DVM. 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 served as a Youth Conservation Leadership Volunteer at Zoo Atlanta. This program "... promotes the personal and professional development of teenagers so that they become leaders in animal science and conservation education." In my second volunteer year I was promoted to Outback Station Husbandry Aide. In that role I helped 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."