Send Olivia to CostaRica with Vets Without Borders

Hey everyone!

I'm now entering into my fourth semester at Iowa State University (halfway done with undergrad!) and I thought I would post a little update on what I am up to! For those who don’t know, I am an Animal Science major on the Pre-Veterinary track, and I hope to become a large animal veterinarian.

I am not really sure where to start, but I truly never thought that I would be this busy. One of the first things that I got involved in here at ISU was Salt Company which is one of the student ministry programs here. My relationship with Jesus has grown so much and through Salt I have met some of my best friends and current roommates! I also am involved in Block & Bridle, an animal science club here (and the biggest one in the nation). A few months ago I was selected to become an ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, also known as CALS, so my duties there will start this month. I also recently joined the Iowa State Vets Without Borders Club. Overall, I don’t have much free time, but when I do get time to relax I love spending time with my sweet roommates and getting ice cream from Culver’s!

There is so many opportunities presented to CALS students, and it can be very overwhelming at times. Over the past few semesters I have been to lectures by the Iowa Secretary of Ag, Temple Grandin, and many more influential people in agriculture. All of the professors are so knowledgeable and I learn something new everyday, just ask my mom who I send random (and probably gross) fun facts to regularly! The classes aren’t easy by any means (looking at you organic chemistry!), but they sure are interesting. My favorite class so far has been Domestic Animal Physiology and the accompanying lab, but I am really looking forwards to Microbiology this semester!

I feel like I just moved into my freshman dorm, but now I live in an off-campus apartment, time is moving so fast. I will be applying to veterinary school soon which is exciting and terrifying all at the same time!

In March 2024 I have an exciting opportunity to travel to Costa Rica to work with Vets Without Boarders. The trip was originally set for Guatemala, but due to some unrest there ISU has decided to change locations to Costa Rica (which raises the cost a bit). I’ll be helping in their mobile clinics which offer high-quality spay/neuter services and animal welfare education. This volunteer opportunity will help me acquire extensive and valuable hands-on clinical experience, and assist in controlling animal overpopulation in the community, all the while helping hundreds of animals. This 9-day, culturally immersive, trip will happen during ISU’s spring break week, and will cost approximately $3,500.00, due January 2024.

I’m hoping that you’ll please consider sponsoring a portion of my expenses! This trip will expose me to veterinary outreach which I hope to continue participating in well into my future career, as well as setting me up to network alongside other veterinary professionals.

Thank you soooo much for checking this page out and I'd love your prayers when I travel in March!!