Hi! My name is Kate. I'm an Animal Science major that transferred from a local community college and is loving UMD! I'm a commuter student but still integrate myself into campus life despite not living on campus. I grew up in Maryland on the corner of four different counties and can talk about all the different flavors of Maryland along with the best places to visit in DC and surrounding areas. My favorite thing about Maryland is how you can start in rural farm area and drive 15 minutes to bustling city and vice versa. There's truly something for everyone! I love biology and always love to talk about balancing a STEM workload and still thriving socially. I love running, reading, food, and coffee. I try to apply academics into everyday life and therefore always have some random biology tidbits to offer. I love to customize tours to fit in what is most applicable to the potential future terp. I always try to check in and make sure everyone's enjoying themselves. Tours are supposed to be fun! I'm am always happy to shift plans or take a break to give the best UMD experience!

Hometown

Mount Airy, MD

Major(s)

Animal Science

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Swing dance club, environmental clubs, ASL practice club, and the pride alliance.

Describe your college experience

I've come from a smaller school so it has been great to utilize all of the resources that a large school like UMD has to offer. For example, I appreciate the recreation facilities and campus farm.

Tip for future students

I think it is very important to build a good relationship with your faculty! I always recommend getting to know your advisors, faculty, and professors. Office hours are great for this. Building a good relationship benefits both your learning and career as faculty will think of you when work opportunities arise. I also would like to stress the value of creating your own opportunities! What I mean by this is putting yourself out there both in person and via email to search for jobs and internships.

Favorite class

I really enjoyed Genetics, I'm very interested in biological processes and all of the ties to evolution.

Career goals

I'm going into agriculture with a focus on animals. I'm not sure the exact role that I will end up in but I plan to work caring for domestic animals or overseeing agricultural operations that include animals.

Ideal way to spend a free night

Cooking or baking with my best friend, or going out and having fun.

High school or secondary school

Carroll community college

Previous college

Carroll community college

Favorite spot on campus

I love the upper floors of Mckeldin Library, there are just rows and rows of books on anything you can imagine!