Hometown: Elkton, MD for the past 6 years (Oregon, Arizona and New Hampshire before that)
Major: Animal Science
I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian when I was in high school and was attracted by the first-class curriculum and the opportunities available at the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. I received a scholarship, which has allowed me to focus on my studies without worrying about how I’m going to pay for them. Vet school is extremely expensive, and this scholarship means that I will be better able to afford it.
I’ve been surprised by the number of students who do not come from a farming background. I thought everyone would be from a farm family, like me; however, that has not been the case. The students are very diverse, hailing from a wide variety of areas, with numerous experiences different than my own.
I haven't had the chance to take too many courses yet, but I do have a favorite: AREC250. I thought economics were not exactly thrilling, but this class is proving me wrong. The professor is very animated and involves the whole class. And because the class is very small, interaction readily occurs. I also really enjoyed the winter-term experience I had in Southeast Asia (China, Vietnam, and Cambodia) for GVPT389A. I had a great time and plan on studying abroad again soon.
But one of the best things about college is being away from home and making my own decisions. It's my future and I feel like the University of Maryland allows me to be firmly in control of it. And so far, my career plans haven’t changed; if anything they have been further confirmed by my enjoyment of the animal science courses I’ve taken.
Advice for prospective students: “I would recommend that students come visit the school and see what it is like for themselves. The campus has such atmosphere; it can only be experienced first hand.”
Advice for parents of prospective students: “I would recommend that you be supportive of your children’s decision no matter how much it will cost. In the long run, an excellent education is infinitely better than savings on tuition.”
For more information, contact
Elizabeth Weiss
Last updated:
03/9/2009