Hometown: Hershey, Nebraska
Major: Veterinary and Biomedical Science
Anticipated Date of Graduation: Fall 2021
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I decided to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln because of the veterinary program with Iowa, offering residency rates and the first two years in Lincoln. It is a wonderful program, which I am excited to apply to.
What is your favorite thing about University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
My favorite thing has been the many amazing advisors and instructors I have been fortunate to learn from thus far. They give individualized guidance and work hard to offer opportunities for students to succeed. UNL offers many services, but I have been blessed to receive a wonderful advisor and passionate professors, which make all the difference for me.
How has diversity and inclusive excellence played a role in your CASNR experience?
I believe it is the reason I have had such wonderful professors and advisors. I receive instruction from individuals of different walks of life, all of which have a high standard for themselves and their students. I am challenged but supported to meet that challenge. I receive learning opportunities that further expose me to new experiences, while learning with a diverse student body, so I get to interact with many different people, giving me the opportunity to build relationships which might not otherwise occur. CASNR offers quality education and learning experiences, which requires diversity in order to teach from all perspectives and equip their students for the world they will go into.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
Genetics is my favorite course so far because it was well organized, the instructors were fair and challenging, my lab group was amazing and the course itself was intriguing! I have always enjoyed understanding how the body works and genetics is central to that. My favorite part was the research grant proposal we had to write. It was very challenging and extremely time consuming for me, but we were allowed to pick any reasonable disorder and then use techniques we learned in class to build this paper over the semester. Through this paper, I was introduced to a new side of research. It stretched my understanding of the vastness of research and the role I could possibly play. I am seeking more research opportunities, and I plan to incorporate research into my career because of this class.
What are your plans post-graduation?
I plan to become a military veterinarian. I plan to serve my country and honor those who have protected me and given me so many opportunities, by using the skill set and education this country made possible, so others may continue to receive the same blessings.
What’s life like outside of school?
Outside of classes, my life moves quickly as I am learning with my 6-year-old son, caring for our two dogs, volunteering at a therapy horse center and filling out my veterinary school application. I am currently in a very exciting season, so I keep busy prepping and planning for the next steps of vet school and military applications in order to keep on top of the deadlines. Whenever possible, I enjoy reading, riding and just relaxing with my family.
Niki has received the following scholarship: Richard and Marion Rumbolz Leunis Van Es Memorial Scholarship