When you ask a child what they want to be when they grow up, you just might get any answer, ranging from "astronaut!" to "president!" Mine was and still is, a veterinarian. Since I was little, animals have gotten me through some of the most challenging times of my life. My parent's countless fights, their divorce, and my great-grandmother's death are all instances where my animals inspired me to keep going. During all of those times, my animals always seemed to know when things were wrong, and just how to make me feel better. They were there to heal me when no one else was, and now my dream is to do the same. When our family cat was diagnosed with diabetes, I was the first one to step up and learn about the disease and its care. I have always been fascinated with all things pertaining to an animal's health and general well-being. I love how each body part works and cooperates with others to form a greater whole and ultimately demonstrate the miracle that is life. Today, I am able to give back to the creatures that have given me so much through both volunteering and working. I volunteer for a local animal rescue organization, Pound Puppies N' Kittens, where I find homes for homeless cats and dogs. I also work at a veterinary office. There, my main job includes taking care of the animals boarding at the clinic. Additionally, I assist the veterinarians with anything they might need. This includes holding animals during appointments, drawing up vaccines, running tests, restocking supplies, and helping to maintain a clean working environment for everyone. After vet school, I plan on working at a clinic until I have enough money saved up to open my own clinic. Through my volunteer work and experience at the clinic, I am able to see ways that I can run my own practice to better benefit the animals under my care. My clinic will have both regular and emergency hours. Just like twenty-four-hour care is available to humans, I believe that animals deserve the same right. I also plan to ensure all of my prices are affordable and fair because I have seen firsthand how expensive vet bills can affect families who are just trying to care for their pets. I also plan to continue to volunteer whenever possible, as well as foster animals until they find homes. I want to make regular donations to rescues in my area and work closely with them to provide the best care possible for any animals rescued. I strongly believe that the best way to bring about change in my community is to be the change itself. Through my Veterinary Clinic and volunteering, I will be able to reach my community and hopefully inspire more to do the same.