Isabelle Gapen

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

I always knew that I wanted to be a veterinarian. When choosing schools, I knew Penn State had one of the highest-ranked pre-veterinary programs in the country, as well as a highly-ranked College of Agricultural Sciences. When it came time to choose a major at Penn State, I thought Animal Science would give me the chance to learn about food animal production and gain vital skills in the large animal sector of the industry.

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

THON is an extremely important organization to me, and this year, I have the privilege of being the Pre-Vet Club's THON chair! Also, I had the opportunity to create a new club, One Health Club, in the College of Agricultural Sciences. Being a co-founder of that club and now the club president has not only brought forth a major extracurricular learning opportunity but has also brought me an amazing group of friends.

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

As a new student, I wish I had been more open to trying new experiences. Don't say no to something just because you think you won't like it. It is just as important to find things that you don't like as exploring what you do like. There are a lot of internships and experiences that I would never have had if I hadn't opened my mind to the idea of trying new things, from research with dairy calves to becoming an Ag Advocate.