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Shayley Jones

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Finalist

Bio

Hi! I’m Shayley, I’m a biology/pre-veterinary student. My passion lies with less fortunate animals. I’m committed to getting my small animal veterinary degree and aim to open my own clinic and in the future, a non profit. I grew up on the reservation, where I rescued any and every animal my mother would let me. I currently have three rescues of my own and I’ve rehomed numerous others. I aim to help as many companion animals as possible off of the streets and provide affordable and adequate care around the reservation for those in need so pets and their owners can thrive.

Education

Northeastern State University

Bachelor's degree program
2024 - 2028
  • Majors:
    • Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences

Northeast Technology Center-Kansas

Trade School
2022 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other

Kansas High School

High School
2010 - 2024

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and Related Fields, Other
  • Planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Veterinary

    • Dream career goals:

      My long term career goals consist of receiving my veterinary degree and opening my own non profit.

      Research

      • Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and Related Fields, Other

        Northeastern State University — Author
        2025 – 2025

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Cherokee County Humane Society — Dog walker
        2024 – Present

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Philanthropy

      Entrepreneurship

      Pet Pals Pack Compassion Award
      Growing up on a reservation, I've witnessed a large amount of poverty and numerous stray animals. I’ve always felt an urge to help animals, especially those who are neglected or homeless. At a very young age, I started rescuing animals off the streets. This passion has stayed with me throughout my life, and I currently have three rescues of my own. They’ve been abandoned, neglected, or both, and it brings me immense joy to provide them with the compassion and hope they deserve. The reservation presents challenges when it comes to providing adequate veterinary care for pets. Limited funds often mean that many animals do not receive the medical attention they need. This has only fueled my determination to make a difference in the lives of these animals. I aspire to open my own clinic, where I can offer exceptional care to animals in need. By partnering with local rescues and shelters, I hope to create a network of support that ensures every animal receives the care they deserve. My passion for animal welfare is deeply rooted in the environment I grew up in. The sight of stray animals struggling to survive was a common occurrence, and it left a lasting impact on me. I realized that animals, despite their inability to speak, form profound relationships with humans. Their silent companionship has taught me the importance of empathy and kindness. Each rescue animal I've taken in has shown me the remarkable resilience and capacity for love that animals possess. By pursuing my career as a veterinarian, I aim to bridge the gap in veterinary care on the reservation. I want to provide accessible and affordable services to pet owners, ensuring that no animal suffers due to a lack of resources. My clinic will focus on preventive care, emergency services, and rehabilitation for abused and neglected animals. I see a community where animals are treated with the respect and care they deserve, and where pet owners are educated about responsible pet ownership. I also want to develop relationships with pet owners, ensuring I’m providing the best care possible. My experiences growing up on a reservation have shaped my passion for animal welfare. The challenges I've witnessed have inspired me to pursue a career as a small animal veterinarian, with the goal of opening a clinic and down the road, a non profit! Through partnerships with local rescues and shelters, I aim to provide exceptional care for animals and create a compassionate community where every animal and pet owner has the chance to thrive.
      Andrea N. Santore Scholarship
      Veterinary Medicine is a major factor in animal welfare. I chose Veterinary Medicine because I’ve always had a deep passion for helping others. Seeing animals distraught, neglected, or hurting has always made me think, “I need to do something, now!” I cannot bear to think about or see our companion animals suffering. Companion animals are truly man’s best friends. I know the pain of losing a furry friend all too well. I want more than anything to provide comfort to animals and their pet parents through any type of situation. I believe it’s important for pets and their owners to have an empathetic and supportive Veterinarian. Veterinary care can be tough on animals and their owners, it’s not easy. With a compassionate and caring attitude I can make a difference for these pets and their pet parents. However, I chose this career because I want to be the light in the dark for all of the neglected, abandoned, or sick animals without an owner. Suffering animals have always struck me in the heart. When I encounter animals that suffer from a lack of nutrients, medical care, and companionship my heart feels as if it twists and turns. I immediately try to do what I can to help the suffering animal. For example, I always try to get them food, water, and medical attention. Immediate action can save an animal’s life. With a veterinary degree I know I’ll be more successful in caring for the suffering animals I encounter. Achieving my degree in Veterinary Medicine would mean the world to me. I would be able to provide for my family while doing something I’m deeply passionate about. I would no longer have to worry about my dog’s veterinary care, because I would be their veterinarian. I would feel more confident in my actions when it comes to helping my own fur babies and suffering fur babies. It’s truly heartbreaking to see the state some of these animals are in, but knowing I can make a difference in their lives keeps me moving. With my veterinary degree I could work closely with rescues, shelters, foster families, and more. I know this will be such a rewarding career for me. Seeing once suffering and neglecting animals get to thrive is truly the most amazing feeling. One day after veterinary school I hope to open my own non profit such as a rescue, Humane Society, or shelter. I hope to save as many animals as I can and provide the appropriate medical care and companionship they deserve.
      Shayley Jones Student Profile | Bold.org