Tyler Diels, who grew up in Beaver Dam, WI, is graduating this spring with a bachelor’s in Animal and Veterinary Biosciences. In the below Q&A, he talks about his passion for veterinary medicine, his involvement in the Pre-Veterinary Association, and the connections he made with faculty and professors. After graduation, Tyler will be attending veterinary school at UW–Madison with plans of becoming a small animal veterinarian.
What’s your hometown? / Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Beaver Dam, WI (about an hour north of Madison). I have lived there my entire life.
Why did you choose your major? What was the most interesting or the coolest thing you learned in your courses?
I chose my major because I wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. The coolest thing I learned in my courses is how every part of the body works together in a delicate balance to function properly. My favorite part is how the cardiovascular system adjusts based on movement and exercise.
What student organizations, groups, and other activities were you involved in?
I was heavily involved with the Pre-Veterinary Association. I was on the board for 3 years, working my way up to president this year. I am also very physically active and have competed in marathons, triathlons, and ultramarathons.
What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduation, I am attending vet school right here at UW-Madison. I plan to become a small animal veterinarian and move back to my hometown to operate a veterinary clinic.
What were the most valuable and/or meaningful experiences you had in CALS?
The most valuable experiences I had in CALS were becoming active in a club focused on what my future aspirations are and forming connections with professors, advisors, and mentors.
When you think about your time here as a student, what are you proud of?
I am proud of the personal growth I accomplished during my undergrad years. I have accomplished many academic goals that I did not think were possible. Seeing all of my hard work come together was a truly enriching process for me.
Do you have any advice you’d like to share with CALS students?
My advice would be to find activities and topics that you are truly passionate about, something that motivates you to be better every day. The joy should not just come from the end result, but from the journey you took to get there.
What do you like most about being a CALS student?
The thing I like most about being a CALS student is the amazing faculty and mentors that I have formed relationships with. They have encouraged and helped me through the last four years and greatly aided me in my academic journey.
If you had to eat one Babcock ice cream flavor for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
If I had to eat any Babcock ice cream flavor, it would be Blueberry Swirl because I love blueberries and I love ice cream, so when you put them together, magic happens.
What’s your favorite thing about the city of Madison?
My favorite thing about the city of Madison is that there is something for everyone to enjoy. There are always activities going on and anyone can find something to do anytime of the year.