Hello! My name is Sophie and I am a current Animal Science student concentrating in Animal Biology. I'm from the suburbs of Chicago and chose Michigan State because of its amazing opportunities in Animal Science and the welcoming community. I love spending time with friends, exploring campus, and taking advantage of everything MSU offers. I’m excited to share my experiences and help you make your own incredible memories.

Hometown

Arlington Heights, IL

Major(s)

Animal Science

Minor(s)

Environmental and Sustainability Studies (considering)

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Pre-Veterinary medical association Pre-Veterinary awareness and wellness support - E-board Outdoors club Journaling club

Describe your college experience

My college experience as an Animal Science major has been both challenging and rewarding. My classes have allowed me to combine scientific knowledge with hands-on experiences, which has helped me better understand the responsibilities involved in working with animals. I have also learned the importance of teamwork, communication, time management, and attention to detail. I have also met amazing people during my time here. Through my classes, organizations, and general gatherings, I have made lasting friendships that make college so much more worth it. Overall the relationships fostered have been amazing Although there have been challenging courses and stressful moments, those experiences have helped me grow academically and personally.

Tip for future students

I have may tips for students but here are the biggest one's in my opinion: -Spend as little time in the dorm as possible - I spent a lot of time in my dorm. It can be hard to get out when you're so tired from the day, but I recommend studying at the library, sending your free time outside, and hanging out with people somewhere different from you're dorm. It ends up making the days much more memorable and enjoyable! -Stay organized - it's so easy work classwork to pile up, so I highly suggest staying on top of things. I try to start studying for exams at least a week in advance and get assignments done well before the due date. This ends up giving me more free time and less stress -Finally, don't get too caught up with maximizing involvement - joining clubs is amazing, and I highly recommend. But, don't join too many and gt too involved, because it can end up making you less committed in general. I suggest becoming very active in one or two clubs and honing in on those.

Favorite class

My favorite class has been ANS 222 Intro Beef Cattle Management because it has provided me with many amazing opportunities to get hands-on experience working with the beef cattle at MSU.

Career goals

I came into school wanting to be a veterinarian, but after learning about other opportunities from my time here at MSU, I am also considering careers in research surrounding dairy science or sustainable agriculture.

Ideal way to spend a free night

If I had the ideal night, it would start off with my friends and I heading to Grand River Ave. to get dessert (probably ice cream) and then walking along the street and around campus to people watch. When we get tired, we head back so someone's place and turn on spotify on the TV, so we can watch music videos while we chit chat. Also, each of us would be engaging in our own type of craft, mine would be scrapbooking but my friends like crocheting and painting. The night would end after we order in some late night snacks and then head our separate ways. I like having a mix of going out and staying in all in one.

High school or secondary school

Rolling Meadows High School

Favorite spot on campus

My favorite spot on campus is the MSU Horticulture Gardens because it is a peaceful place where I can take a break from the fast pace of college. I enjoy being surrounded by nature, walking through and photographing the gardens, and appreciating all the different plants and flowers. It gives me a chance to relax, clear my mind, and enjoy the beauty of campus. I also like that it is a place where I can spend time with friends or just have some quiet time to myself.