Ashley Russo

Question #1: What inspired you to pursue the major you are in?

I have always had an affinity for animals growing up. I knew from a young age that I wanted to spend the rest of my life working with animals of any and all sorts. I didn't know exactly how I wanted to work with animals until I came to Penn State and found my calling through getting involved with the College of Agricultural Sciences.

Question #2: What has been the best part of your time in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences?

The best part of my time in the College of Agricultural Sciences has been working in multiple research labs on campus. Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences offers an abundance of opportunities for starting in research. I have found my passion for what I want to pursue through undergraduate research. I currently work in a veterinary entomology lab, which has sparked my interest in wildlife epidemiology and infectious ecology.

Question #3: What do you wish you would have known as a new student at Penn State?

As a new student at Penn State, I wish I realized how important it was to get involved on campus. I noticed a significant shift in my mental health once I started joining clubs both inside and outside of the College of Agricultural Sciences. Clubs are not only an opportunity to meet new friends but also improve your mental health and spark an interest in things you didn’t think you would enjoy.