Standing in the surgery room at Town and Country Animal Hospital, I prepared to be handed a puppy. Dr. Kyle Heasley was performing a C-section on an English Bull Dog. He dropped the first pup into my hands, and I began vigorously rubbing to stimulate it. Being responsible for this newborn creature was nerve wracking and exhilarating. As the mom recovered and the pups gained their strength, I felt fulfilled and grateful to have been a part of bringing new life into the world. This experience made me realize that I want to be the vet delivering newborn animals. Working at Town and Country solidified my drive to become a veterinarian. At this practice, I learned how to properly restrain animals, draw blood, take histories, and make pets comfortable. I have observed doctors diagnose and treat patients with compassion and efficiency. Dr. Phil Aquadro, the owner, takes the time to explain diseases, vaccines, and procedures to pet owners in a way they understand. Through Dr. Phil’s interactions his knowledge is evident, and I learn something each time I assist him. I have gained confidence in answering client questions and experience with common practices. Growing up in a rural area, I feel a drive to help animals of all species. Being a member of the FFA, I learned the importance of animal health and welfare. I had the opportunity to travel to a dairy farm with Dr. Deanna Trearchis. Here I learned about a cow’s reproductive cycle, and how an ultrasound is used to view a cow’s uterus. I had the opportunity to palpate a heifer and was thrilled to feel the “buzz” of the middle uterine artery which helped confirm the heifer was pregnant. I am excited to one day use an ultrasound myself to determine the stage of the estrous cycle of the cow. On a farm call with Dr. Kyle, I had the opportunity to help with five goat castrations during a severe thunderstorm. While making quick decisions, nothing distracted him from the animal’s welfare. I was fascinated by his use of a Newberry knife and Henderson castrating tool. As I helped prepare each goat for castration and handed the tools to the doctor, I learned the use of each tool and want to be precise and focused during procedures. As a member of the Schreyer Honors College, I am completing a thesis, with the help of Dr. Van Saun, on the transfer of colostrum from ewe to lamb. Taking the Sheep and Goat Production and Management class helped me learn the importance of colostrum. This knowledge was useful while I processed samples in the lab weekly. Contributing to the veterinary field, even if it may be in a small way, is rewarding. Although the process of becoming a veterinarian is demanding, I am prepared to take on the challenge. I have always been driven to help people and animals and want to continue doing that by becoming a veterinarian. Whether it be welcoming new life into the world, treating sick animals, or helping animals have a painless passing, I am eager to learn and care for animals and their owners.