The Start of a Lifelong Dream by Taylor

The Start of a Lifelong Dream by Taylor - April 2025 Scholarship Essay

"Look at that big doggy, Mommy!" said two-year-old me, pointing excitedly at a creature in our yard. To my and my mom’s surprise, it wasn’t a big dog; it was a full-grown cow that had wandered in from a neighboring pasture. That unexpected visitor became one of my earliest and most vivid memories, and also the first sign of what would become a lifelong fascination with animals.
From that day forward, animals have played a central role in my life. As a child, I spent hours watching Animal Planet and Nat Geo Wild, and I was fascinated with the shows Pit Bulls and Parolees and Animal Fight Night. Trips to the local pet store weren’t about buying anything, they were little adventures where I could visit the animals, watch them interact, and sometimes just sit quietly and observe. I’ve always gravitated toward animals, whether it’s holding baby chicks at the feed store, watching pig races and horse shows at the state fair, or spending time with my pets. There’s a sense of connection I feel when I’m around them, something that’s never gone away, and I don’t think it ever will.
As I’ve grown older, that childhood love has evolved into a deeper curiosity and a desire to understand animals on a scientific level. I want to learn how their bodies work, how they communicate, and how they heal. I plan to major in Animal Science because I want to turn that passion into a profession. This major will provide me with a solid foundation in biology, physiology, nutrition, and animal behavior, all knowledge that is essential as I prepare to apply to veterinary school after earning my bachelor’s degree.
Becoming a veterinarian has always been my dream. No matter how many times people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, the answer never changed. I want to be someone who advocates for animals, helps them when they’re sick or injured, and supports the people who care for them. Whether it’s a family pet, a farm animal, or wildlife in need, I want to provide the best and most affordable care possible.
From mistaking a cow for a dog at age two to now preparing for a future in veterinary medicine, my love for animals has shaped who I am and where I’m headed. I know the journey won’t be easy as Animal Science is a rigorous major and the path to vet school is competitive, but I’m more than ready for the challenge. This isn’t just a major to me, it’s the first big step toward the life I’ve always imagined. I’m excited to get involved in hands-on experiences like internships at veterinary clinics or working with livestock. Every new thing I learn will bring me closer to making a real difference in the lives of animals.