Caitlin Hanley heads to veterinary school
Caitlin Hanley, who grew up in Watertown, Wisconsin, will be graduating this winter with a bachelor’s in animal science and a certificate in food systems. In this Q&A, she talks about her hands-on learning experiences, student organizations she is involved in, and her work as a CALS ambassador. She plans to attend vet school on the path to becoming a small/exotic animal veterinarian.
Why did you choose your major? What was the most interesting or the coolest thing you learned?
I thought it would be the best major to gain lots of animal experience before vet school. I’ve gained a lot of unique hands on experiences, but it was super cool to work with sea urchins in my reproductive physiology class.
What student organizations, groups, and other activities were you involved in?
CALS Ambassadors, Slow Food UW, Pre-Veterinary Association (PVA), Wisconsin Admissions Volunteer (WAV)
What are your future academic and/or career plans, short-term and long-term?
I’m hoping to attend vet school and become a small animal/exotic veterinarian!
What were the most valuable and/or meaningful experiences you had in CALS?
I have loved my time as a CALS Ambassador. It’s been amazing being able to connect with future students and introduce them to a lot of life-changing opportunities here within CALS and at UW–Madison.
When you think about your time here as a student, what are you proud of?
Last year I was the South Madison Chair for Slow Food UW and organized internships. There were a lot of challenges and knots to work out as we switched advisors, and I’m proud of how I was able to work with my team and take the program to the next level.
Do you have any advice you’d like to share with CALS students?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! It’s easy to get overwhelmed between academics, work, and other involvements. Reaching out to your community can really help manage whatever pressures you may have.
What do you like most about being a CALS student?
I’ve been able to form so many amazing connections within CALS, so I know I’ll always have people supporting me.
If you had to eat one Babcock ice cream flavor for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Mnookie Dough!!
What’s your favorite thing about the city of Madison?
All of the nature and hiking trails, like the Lakeshore Trails and the Arboretum. The magnolia season in the Arboretum is one of my favorite times of the year!