My name is Gabrielle Mickle. I’m a 19-year-old sophomore at Prairie View A&M University, majoring in Agriculture with a concentration in Animal Science and a minor in Chemistry and Veterinary Medicine. From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with animals, and now I’m fully committed to turning that lifelong passion into a career as a veterinarian. Throughout high school and college, I’ve remained focused on my academic and personal growth by staying active in organizations like Top Teens of America, National Honor Society, Black Student Union, and the Pre-Vet Club. I’ve also consistently earned Honor Roll recognition for my academic performance. These experiences have helped shape who I am today—a dedicated, passionate, and community-minded young woman working hard to make a difference. Growing up around dogs and helping care for them since I was nine years old sparked my interest in animal care. They weren’t just pets—they were family. Over time, I developed a deeper understanding of how important it is to provide proper care and attention to animals, especially when they can’t speak up for themselves. That early exposure led me to begin volunteering at animal shelters, where I’ve helped walk, feed, and comfort animals in need. These hands-on experiences showed me the power of compassion and the real-life impact veterinarians have, not only on animals but also on their owners and communities. My goal is to become a licensed veterinarian and one day open my own animal clinic in a community where access to affordable veterinary care is limited. I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for families to get proper care for their pets due to financial or transportation challenges. I want to change that by providing affordable services, offering educational workshops for pet owners, and being a resource for people who want the best for their animals but may not always have the means. I want to make it easier for families to keep their pets happy, healthy, and at home. Beyond running a clinic, I also plan to give back through education and outreach. I hope to work with local schools and youth programs to introduce students—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—to careers in animal science and veterinary medicine. I believe it’s important for young people to see someone who looks like them pursuing a career they may not have considered. If I can inspire just one student to follow their dreams, I’ll consider that a success. Everything I’ve done so far—from academics to volunteering to campus involvement—has been with a purpose: to serve, to learn, and to lead. I’m not just chasing a career; I’m creating a life built on compassion, impact, and dedication. Becoming a veterinarian is my calling, and I am ready to continue working hard to make it a reality—not just for myself, but for the animals and communities who need someone to care for them.