For me, my personal top 3 criteria for selecting a college were my major, the environment, and a different dynamic than I was used to. I knew I wanted to distance myself from my hometown, which is a very small town, and experience different dynamics. But I was also prioritizing many other factors above that so it’s just kind of the way the pieces fell. Colorado State has a good zoology program and it’s also less oriented towards pre vet and agriculture than many schools nearby. So, their program is better suited to my interests and career plans than schools like Texas A&M, which is much closer to my hometown.

I chose Colorado State University, because it really seemed like they had the best environment for me. Everyone I meet that is familiar with the school has nothing but good things to say about it. I visited Fort Collins once to tour the campus, and I absolutely loved it. The area itself is beautiful. Brick sidewalks, plants, and flowers everywhere. All the people we met were very friendly. Plus, it’s an hour away from Estes Park as well as Denver so you get the best of both worlds. Knowing how far I was going from home was a little scary because I really rely on my family. But I will have a really close friend nearby in Wyoming and we tend to be a really good support system for each other. At Colorado State University, I am majoring in the degree of zoology because this degree most closely aligns with my goals of protecting wildlife. This program will allow me to develop a specialized set of skills geared toward ecosystems, conservation, and biodiversity.

Ensuring that I have the knowledge I need to truly protect and care for these creatures as well as their homes properly. some things aren’t always as easy for me as they would be for others. I am diagnosed with Familial Mediterranean Fever. Some of my symptoms are fever, fatigue, arthritis, and nausea. I need much more sleep than my peers. And on top of this I’ve struggled with anxiety and depression but the one thing that’s always helped me is nature and living creatures. I think that’s why I want to major in zoology and work in conservation. I guess I just want to protect the things that have always protected me. Due to my disease working while attending school could be difficult although I do take jobs when I am able. And by receiving the Wiingy Future Stem Leaders scholarship, I would more easily be able to pursue my education in a male dominated STEM field where I could work my hardest to show women can excel in STEM, as well as advocate for other women.