From the time I was little, animals were more than companions, they were , my teachers, and a source of healing during times of change and challenge. Growing up in a military family, we moved often. Each new place brought unfamiliar faces, new schools, and new routines, but there was always one constant: the animals in my life. Whether it was a horse at a local stable or a stray dog I couldn’t resist wanting to take care of, animals grounded me when everything else felt unreal. My passion for animal care is rooted in those early experiences, the quiet moments brushing a horse after school, the joy of watching a rescued kitten learn to trust again, or the comfort of tending to animals who couldn’t speak, but communicated everything through their ways. Over time, I realized that caring for animals wasn't just a hobby—it was my purpose. Living in rural areas for part of my life introduced me to agriculture as more than a concept. I saw firsthand the hard work and dedication it takes to raise animals, grow crops, and manage land. I helped, fed livestock before school, and learned the rhythm of life to the land and the wellbeing of animals. There’s something humbling about that connection knowing that your care, your hands, your decisions directly affect the health of a living being or the productivity of a pasture. But my passion isn’t just emotional — it’s scientific too. As I learned more about animal health and agriculture, I became fascinated by the systems behind it. How nutrition affects growth and recovery, how soil health impacts feed quality, how diseases spread among herds; it sparked a hunger to learn more. My goal is to shadow veterinarians, volunteer at animal shelters, and enrolling in agricultural science programs to deepen my understanding which I have achieved by studying at NCAT under the Animal Science major. Being part of A&T has given me a sense of belonging, I feel comfortable here and enjoying every moment of being an Aggie. What motivates me the most is the opportunity to be part of something bigger — helping to ensure the humane treatment of animals, promoting sustainable farming practices, and contributing to a field that feeds and supports communities around the world. In a time when food security, environmental stewardship, and ethical animal treatment are pressing global issues, agriculture and animal care are more important than ever. For me, this isn’t just a career path it’s a calling. I want to be part of a generation that honors traditional agricultural values while pushing for innovation and sustainability. I want to help educate others on the importance of proper animal care, the science behind farming, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Whether through veterinary medicine, agricultural education, or farm management, I’m committed to making a difference. Most importantly, I believe that compassion is at the heart of agriculture and animal care. It's about more than feeding or housing animals it's about understanding them, respecting their needs, and ensuring their welfare. That belief has shaped who I am and drives everything I do. In every barn I’ve cleaned, every injured animal I’ve helped, every early morning I’ve spent tending to livestock, I’ve found joy and purpose. That’s why I’m pursuing a future in agriculture and animal care because it’s not just something I love; it’s something I believe in.

From the time I was little, animals were more than companions, they were , my teachers, and a source of healing during times of change and challenge. Growing up in a military family, we moved often. Each new place brought unfamiliar faces, new schools, and new routines, but there was always one constant: the animals in my life. Whether it was a horse at a local stable or a stray dog I couldn’t resist wanting to take care of, animals grounded me when everything else felt unreal. My passion for animal care is rooted in those early experiences, the quiet moments brushing a horse after school, the joy of watching a rescued kitten learn to trust again, or the comfort of tending to animals who couldn’t speak, but communicated everything through their ways. Over time, I realized that caring for animals wasn't just a hobby—it was my purpose. Living in rural areas for part of my life introduced me to agriculture as more than a concept. I saw firsthand the hard work and dedication it takes to raise animals, grow crops, and manage land. I helped, fed livestock before school, and learned the rhythm of life to the land and the wellbeing of animals. There’s something humbling about that connection knowing that your care, your hands, your decisions directly affect the health of a living being or the productivity of a pasture. But my passion isn’t just emotional — it’s scientific too. As I learned more about animal health and agriculture, I became fascinated by the systems behind it. How nutrition affects growth and recovery, how soil health impacts feed quality, how diseases spread among herds; it sparked a hunger to learn more. My goal is to shadow veterinarians, volunteer at animal shelters, and enrolling in agricultural science programs to deepen my understanding which I have achieved by studying at NCAT under the Animal Science major. What motivates me the most is the opportunity to be part of something bigger — helping to ensure the humane treatment of animals, promoting sustainable farming practices, and contributing to a field that feeds and supports communities around the world. In a time when food security, environmental stewardship, and ethical animal treatment are pressing global issues, agriculture and animal care are more important than ever. For me, this isn’t just a career path it’s a calling. I want to be part of a generation that honors traditional agricultural values while pushing for innovation and sustainability. I want to help educate others on the importance of proper animal care, the science behind farming, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Whether through veterinary medicine, agricultural education, or farm management, I’m committed to making a difference. Most importantly, I believe that compassion is at the heart of agriculture and animal care. It's about more than feeding or housing animals it's about understanding them, respecting their needs, and ensuring their welfare. That belief has shaped who I am and drives everything I do. In every barn I’ve cleaned, every injured animal I’ve helped, every early morning I’ve spent tending to livestock, I’ve found joy and purpose. That’s why I’m pursuing a future in agriculture and animal care because it’s not just something I love; it’s something I believe in.

From the time I was little, animals were more than companions, they were , my teachers, and a source of healing during times of change and challenge. Growing up in a military family, we moved often. Each new place brought unfamiliar faces, new schools, and new routines, but there was always one constant: the animals in my life. Whether it was a horse at a local stable or a stray dog I couldn’t resist wanting to take care of, animals grounded me when everything else felt unreal. My passion for animal care is rooted in those early experiences, the quiet moments brushing a horse after school, the joy of watching a rescued kitten learn to trust again, or the comfort of tending to animals who couldn’t speak, but communicated everything through their ways. Over time, I realized that caring for animals wasn't just a hobby—it was my purpose. Living in rural areas for part of my life introduced me to agriculture as more than a concept. I saw firsthand the hard work and dedication it takes to raise animals, grow crops, and manage land. I helped, fed livestock before school, and learned the rhythm of life to the land and the wellbeing of animals. There’s something humbling about that connection knowing that your care, your hands, your decisions directly affect the health of a living being or the productivity of a pasture. But my passion isn’t just emotional — it’s scientific too. As I learned more about animal health and agriculture, I became fascinated by the systems behind it. How nutrition affects growth and recovery, how soil health impacts feed quality, how diseases spread among herds; it sparked a hunger to learn more. My goal is to shadow veterinarians, volunteer at animal shelters, and enrolling in agricultural science programs to deepen my understanding which I have achieved by studying at NCAT under the Animal Science major. What motivates me the most is the opportunity to be part of something bigger — helping to ensure the humane treatment of animals, promoting sustainable farming practices, and contributing to a field that feeds and supports communities around the world. In a time when food security, environmental stewardship, and ethical animal treatment are pressing global issues, agriculture and animal care are more important than ever. For me, this isn’t just a career path it’s a calling. I want to be part of a generation that honors traditional agricultural values while pushing for innovation and sustainability. I want to help educate others on the importance of proper animal care, the science behind farming, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Whether through veterinary medicine, agricultural education, or farm management, I’m committed to making a difference. Most importantly, I believe that compassion is at the heart of agriculture and animal care. It's about more than feeding or housing animals it's about understanding them, respecting their needs, and ensuring their welfare. That belief has shaped who I am and drives everything I do. In every barn I’ve cleaned, every injured animal I’ve helped, every early morning I’ve spent tending to livestock, I’ve found joy and purpose. That’s why I’m pursuing a future in agriculture and animal care because it’s not just something I love, it’s something I believe in.

From the time I was little, animals were more than companions, they were , my teachers, and a source of healing during times of change and challenge. Growing up in a military family, we moved often. Each new place brought unfamiliar faces, new schools, and new routines, but there was always one constant: the animals in my life. Whether it was a horse at a local stable or a stray dog I couldn’t resist wanting to take care of, animals grounded me when everything else felt unreal. My passion for animal care is rooted in those early experiences, the quiet moments brushing a horse after school, the joy of watching a rescued kitten learn to trust again, or the comfort of tending to animals who couldn’t speak, but communicated everything through their ways. Over time, I realized that caring for animals wasn't just a hobby—it was my purpose. Living in rural areas for part of my life introduced me to agriculture as more than a concept. I saw firsthand the hard work and dedication it takes to raise animals, grow crops, and manage land. I helped, fed livestock before school, and learned the rhythm of life to the land and the wellbeing of animals. There’s something humbling about that connection knowing that your care, your hands, your decisions directly affect the health of a living being or the productivity of a pasture. But my passion isn’t just emotional — it’s scientific too. As I learned more about animal health and agriculture, I became fascinated by the systems behind it. How nutrition affects growth and recovery, how soil health impacts feed quality, how diseases spread among herds; it sparked a hunger to learn more. My goal is to shadow veterinarians, volunteer at animal shelters, and enrolling in agricultural science programs to deepen my understanding which I have achieved by studying at NCAT under the Animal Science major. What motivates me the most is the opportunity to be part of something bigger — helping to ensure the humane treatment of animals, promoting sustainable farming practices, and contributing to a field that feeds and supports communities around the world. In a time when food security, environmental stewardship, and ethical animal treatment are pressing global issues, agriculture and animal care are more important than ever. For me, this isn’t just a career path it’s a calling. I want to be part of a generation that honors traditional agricultural values while pushing for innovation and sustainability. I want to help educate others on the importance of proper animal care, the science behind farming, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Whether through veterinary medicine, agricultural education, or farm management, I’m committed to making a difference. Most importantly, I believe that compassion is at the heart of agriculture and animal care. It's about more than feeding or housing animals it's about understanding them, respecting their needs, and ensuring their welfare. That belief has shaped who I am and drives everything I do. In every barn I’ve cleaned, every injured animal I’ve helped, every early morning I’ve spent tending to livestock, I’ve found joy and purpose. That’s why I’m pursuing a future in agriculture and animal care because it’s not just something I love; it’s something I believe in.

Animal care and welfare are at the heart of modern conservation efforts, especially within the field of zoo medicine. Zoos have transformed from entertainment venues into critical centers for conservation, education, and species preservation. The role of veterinary professionals in these settings goes far beyond treating illness—they are guardians of endangered species, leaders in research, and advocates for ethical care. In the realm of zoo medicine, proper animal care supports long-term conservation goals. Zoo veterinarians provide preventive health care, assist with complex medical procedures, and help manage breeding programs for endangered animals. Through advanced diagnostics, nutrition planning, and behavioral monitoring, they ensure animals not only survive but thrive in human care. This is vital for maintaining genetically diverse populations that may one day be reintroduced into the wild. Additionally, zoo veterinarians often collaborate with conservation biologists and researchers to track diseases that affect wild populations, such as avian flu or chytrid fungus in amphibians. Their work helps prevent outbreaks and protect biodiversity on a global scale. Zoos also serve as public educators, and strong animal welfare practices build trust and teach visitors the importance of protecting wildlife and natural habitats. I plan to contribute to this field by becoming a zoo veterinarian dedicated to advancing both animal health and conservation science. My dream is to work with a diverse range of species in accredited zoos or wildlife parks, participating in breeding and rehabilitation programs, and contributing to international conservation partnerships. I want to be involved in fieldwork that studies how captive care can support wild populations and use my training to respond to emergencies like natural disasters or wildlife trafficking rescues. Equally important to me is public education. I hope to use my platform as a veterinarian to help people understand that zoos, when properly managed, play a vital role in protecting endangered species and ecosystems. By speaking up for animals and modeling compassionate, evidence-based care, I want to inspire the next generation to see animals not just as exhibits, but as lives worth protecting. Zoo medicine represents the perfect intersection of my passions: science, animal care, and conservation. I am committed to being part of a future where animals are treated with respect, ecosystems are restored, and every creature—whether in the wild or in a zoo—has the chance to thrive. In addition to my veterinary goals, I also plan to contribute to research that improves standards of care in zoological institutions. I want to study animal behavior, stress reduction, and enrichment to ensure the physical and psychological health of animals in human care. Long-term, I hope to mentor aspiring veterinary students and advocate for global conservation efforts through professional organizations and nonprofit work. I believe that true conservation begins with compassion, and I am ready to dedicate my life to protecting animals—one species, one patient, and one generation at a time.

My name is Kendall Shands, and I am a driven and passionate student with a deep connection to agriculture and a strong commitment to community service. Coming from a military family, I’ve had the unique experience of living in different places across the country. While each new location brought change and uncertainty, my love for animals and working with the land has always remained steady. Agriculture has become my passion, my purpose, and the foundation for my future career. This scholarship is a crucial step in helping me achieve my educational and career goals. Like many students, I face financial challenges in pursuing a college education. With rising tuition, textbook costs, and living expenses, scholarships such as this one are not just helpful, they are necessary. Receiving this scholarship would allow me to continue my studies without taking on overwhelming debt, and would give me the time and energy to focus fully on gaining the skills and knowledge I need to make a meaningful impact in the agricultural field. It would also allow me to continue participating in unpaid internships, volunteer opportunities, and leadership training experiences, that can often be inaccessible to students struggling financially. My long-term goal is to pursue a career in the agricultural or animal care industry, with a specific interest in becoming a livestock specialist or veterinarian focused on large farm animals. I’ve always believed that agriculture is more than a job it’s a service to our communities, our economy, and our environment. I want to use my education to help farmers improve animal welfare, promote sustainable farming practices, and ensure that rural communities especially those that are underserved have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. I am also deeply interested in agribusiness and entrepreneurship. One of my goals is to one day open my own farm-based education center where young people can learn about farming, food production, animal care, and sustainability. I believe it's important to bring awareness to the importance of agriculture, especially among youth in urban areas who may not have had the opportunity to interact with farm life. I want to be a bridge between tradition and innovation in agriculture, showing that this field offers not only hard work, but also hope, innovation, and opportunity. Community service has always been a big part of my life. Throughout high school, I volunteered at animal shelters, helped run youth agricultural programs, and supported local food drives. I’ve been involved in 4-H and FFA, where I participated in service projects like restoring community gardens, mentoring younger students, and helping distribute meals to families in need. Most recently, I helped lead a project to develop a school garden that teaches younger students how to grow their own fruits and vegetables, while also teaching them about soil health, composting, and food security. These experiences have taught me the true meaning of service and leadership. They’ve shown me that real change happens when we work together to support one another, especially in times of need. I plan to carry this commitment to service throughout my career by using my skills and education to support farmers, uplift rural communities, and advocate for sustainable practices in agriculture. In conclusion, agriculture is more than a career path for me it’s a calling. With the help of this scholarship, I can continue my education and one day return that investment by making a positive difference in my field and in the lives of others. I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered and hopeful for the chance to keep moving forward, one step closer to my goals.

From the time I was little, animals were more than companions, they were , my teachers, and a source of healing during times of change and challenge. Growing up in a military family, we moved often. Each new place brought unfamiliar faces, new schools, and new routines, but there was always one constant: the animals in my life. Whether it was a horse at a local stable or a stray dog I couldn’t resist wanting to take care of, animals grounded me when everything else felt unreal. My passion for animal care is rooted in those early experiences, the quiet moments brushing a horse after school, the joy of watching a rescued kitten learn to trust again, or the comfort of tending to animals who couldn’t speak, but communicated everything through their ways. Over time, I realized that caring for animals wasn't just a hobby—it was my purpose. Living in rural areas for part of my life introduced me to agriculture as more than a concept. I saw firsthand the hard work and dedication it takes to raise animals, grow crops, and manage land. I helped, fed livestock before school, and learned the rhythm of life to the land and the wellbeing of animals. There’s something humbling about that connection knowing that your care, your hands, your decisions directly affect the health of a living being or the productivity of a pasture. But my passion isn’t just emotional — it’s scientific too. As I learned more about animal health and agriculture, I became fascinated by the systems behind it. How nutrition affects growth and recovery, how soil health impacts feed quality, how diseases spread among herds; it sparked a hunger to learn more. My goal is to shadow veterinarians, volunteer at animal shelters, and enrolling in agricultural science programs to deepen my understanding which I have achieved by studying at NCAT under the Animal Science major. What motivates me the most is the opportunity to be part of something bigger — helping to ensure the humane treatment of animals, promoting sustainable farming practices, and contributing to a field that feeds and supports communities around the world. In a time when food security, environmental stewardship, and ethical animal treatment are pressing global issues, agriculture and animal care are more important than ever. For me, this isn’t just a career path it’s a calling. I want to be part of a generation that honors traditional agricultural values while pushing for innovation and sustainability. I want to help educate others on the importance of proper animal care, the science behind farming, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Whether through veterinary medicine, agricultural education, or farm management, I’m committed to making a difference. Most importantly, I believe that compassion is at the heart of agriculture and animal care. It's about more than feeding or housing animals it's about understanding them, respecting their needs, and ensuring their welfare. That belief has shaped who I am and drives everything I do. In every barn I’ve cleaned, every injured animal I’ve helped, every early morning I’ve spent tending to livestock, I’ve found joy and purpose. That’s why I’m pursuing a future in agriculture and animal care because it’s not just something I love; it’s something I believe in.

In the future, I plan to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, with a focus on large animals, especially horses. Growing up around animals and seeing the healing power they can bring to people's lives inspired me to dedicate my life to their care. I wish to open a clinic that provides affordable, accessible care to rural and underserves communities, especially those where veterinary services are limited or unaffordable. I hope to mentor young black students interested in animal science, showing them that representation matters in every field, including veterinary medicine. Being Black to me means carrying the strength, resilience, and creativity of my ancestors with pride. It means knowing that I stand on the shoulders of those who fought for freedoms I now enjoy, and that I have a responsibility to keep pushing forward, breaking barriers for those who come after me. Choosing to attend an HBCU was about more Thant just education, it was about community, culture, and belonging. HBCUs prove a space where Black excellence is not only expected, but celebrated. At my HBCU, I feel seen, supported, and empowered to be my full self. The legacy of Black scholars, leaders, and trailblazers that walk these halls inspires me daily. Being in an environment where I'm surrounded by people who share similar experiences and values gives me the confidence to pursue my goals with pride, knowing that I'm part of something much bigger than myself.

From a young age, I have always felt a connection to animals. Growing up in a military family meant we were moving constantly, but animals were the one constant thing in my life. Where it was a random animal in my classroom, my pets at home, or the horses that became my safe haven, I found comfort, companionship, and peace in caring for them. This bond sparked an early interest in animal health, which has grown into a clear and passionate desire to become a veterinarian. Through experience I have been taught that veterinary medicine is more than just treating sick animals- it's about advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves, supporting families through difficult moments, and strengthening the human-animal bond that means so much to so many around the world. Working in different animal fields, I have seen firsthand the dedication, knowledge and compassion that is required to thrive within this field. Each interaction confirmed that this is what I want to do. What draws me closer to veterinary medicine is the blend of science, service, and heart. I am fascinated by anatomy and eager to understand the complex systems that keep animals healthy. At the same time, I deeply motivated by the idea of being a trusted resource for pet owners and a protector of animal welfare. I want to be the person who can bring relief to a suffering animals and reassurance to a worried family. I am inspired by the diversity within the veterinary field, from general practice to wildlife conversation, from research to community outreach. I believe that everyone, regardless of income or even background, deserves access to quality care for their pets. I see myself not just as a veterinarian, but as a lifelong learner, a mentor, and an advocate for bother animals and the people who love them. Whether I'm working in a clinic, supporting rescue efforts, or contributing to community education programs, I will bring compassion, resilience, and strong ethical foundation to everything I do ahead. Ultimately, my decision to pursue a career in veterinary medicine comes from a place of love, commitment, and purpose. It's the only career that brings together every part of who I am: my curiosity for science, my desire to help others, m lifelong bond with animals, and my passion for giving back. Becoming a veterinarian isn't just a professional goal- it's a promise I've made to the animals who have always been there for me, and to the people who depend on them for love, support, and healing. This field will challenge me, push me, and ask for my very best- and that's exactly why I want to be part of it.

Caring about protecting the ocean is a deeply personal and passionate commitment for me. From the captivating beauty of its diverse ecosystems to its crucial role in sustaining life on Earth, the ocean's significance cannot be overstated. I was fortunate to witness the mesmerizing marine life during my visits to coastal regions and have felt a profound connection to the underwater world. These experiences have ignited a fire within me, driving my desire to study and contribute to the conservation and protection of our oceans. I recognize the ocean's pivotal role in regulating the planet's climate, providing sustenance to millions, and offering boundless opportunities for scientific discovery and innovation. Its preservation is not just an environmental concern, it is a moral and ethical responsibility that I am dedicated to. I am driven by the belief that my generation has a pivotal role to play in safeguarding the oceans for future generations. By pursuing a scholarship in a field related to ocean protection, I am to gain the knowledge, skills, and expertise needed to make a tangible impact. This scholarship represents more than just financial support for my education, it symbolizes an investment in the future of our planet and the preservation of one of its most precious resources. I am committed to using the knowledge and opportunities this scholarship provides to advance the cause of ocean protection, and I see my path forward as intertwining with the continued health and well-being of our oceans. My academic journey has been closely aligned with ocean protection. Through my studies in high school, I've delved into subjects like marine science, animal science, and environmental science, gaining a strong foundation in the scientific and animal aspects of ocean conservation. These studies have opened my eyes to the intricate web of life in the ocean the delicate balance that must be maintained. My care for protecting the ocean is both a personal calling and a response to the pressing environmental issues of our time. It's a commitment to preserving the beauty, wonder, and life-sustaining power of the ocean for future generations. In the end, my care for protecting the ocean is not merely a passing interest but a lifelong commitment. It is a passion rooted in personal experiences, a deep understanding of the ocean's significance, and an unwavering dedication to making a difference. I am eager to seize the opportunities this scholarship can offer to further my goals in contributing to the preservation of our planet's oceans.