My name is Dawson Smith, and I graduated from Manson High School in 2023. Growing up, I was always interested in the field of animal science. I applied to WSU (Washington State University) as I knew it would be the best place to study and help me achieve my goal to become a veterinarian. When I arrived for my first year I wasn’t expecting to learn and go through so much, especially with so many hands-on learning experiences. WSU has not only offered direct pathways for me to learn through but has brought new ideas that weren’t provided before. I am now going into my junior year; and my interests are leaning towards animal nutrition as this I believe would be a great pathway for my career. Right now, in the local community I have taken up a job shadow at Lake Chelan Village Veterinarian. Going through this experience has allowed me to apply my knowledge of animal science and be seen in the real world. What I have learned from my experience is to take the risk that you are uncomfortable with. Understanding that failure is ok, and that learning from mistakes makes you a better person overall. WSU has not only given me the opportunity to try new things, but to take on challenges of farm work, studies, and dissections. As for now, if I can change one thing it would be nothing as I plan to move forward with my field of study and work.

Washington State University – Veterinary Medicine Student, 3rd year