Major: Animal science
Hometown: Saratoga, New York
Why did you choose Cornell CALS?
I chose Cornell CALS for the opportunities in animal science. CALS offers hands-on learning opportunities through research, courses and internships, all while gaining real-world experience. Cornell also has a strong dairy program that connects students with countless opportunities for growth and development, allowing me to learn more from industry professionals, participate in cutting-edge research and receive more hands-on training with animals. These experiences will help me build the skills and knowledge I need to succeed in the future.
Looking back over your freshman year at CALS, which classes or experiences were most meaningful?
Several courses and experiences were incredibly meaningful to me. Courses like Domestic Animal Biology and Dairy Cattle Principles helped shape my understanding of animal science, and working in a dairy research lab gave me hands-on experience assisting with studies on dairy cattle health, which aligns with my interests. Additionally, I had the opportunity to participate in the dairy study trip to the Central Valley of California to learn more about various aspects of agriculture. This was a great experience that allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained in the classroom in a real-world situation.
What kind of research are you interested in?
I am particularly interested in dairy science research that focuses on nutrition during the transition cow period, which is the three weeks before and after a cow has her calf. During this time cows experience significant metabolic changes. Optimizing nutrition during this period can improve animal health, milk production and overall welfare. I’m interested in research that focuses on dietary strategies, nutrient balancing and improving metabolic health during this period because it can significantly reduce disease and illness risk during a cow's lactation.
