Sophia Kutsaya

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

I have always had a love for animals, and I have wanted to be a veterinarian since I was little. Over the summer, I worked at a pig sanctuary, and I fell in love with pigs. Working at the sanctuary confirmed my love for the Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences major, and it made me realize that while the classes are difficult, it will all be worth it in the end.

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

Research! I wanted to try out all the different pathways I could take in veterinary medicine, so I got involved with research through the College of Agricultural Sciences and I love it. It has taught me to apply important concepts from biology and chemistry; it feels real. I enjoy interpreting the data and working through different problems to achieve better results.

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

There are so many resources and communities that are built to help you succeed. When I was a new student, I struggled with adjusting to a new environment, and I felt alone. It was not until I began going to review sessions and getting advice from other students that I realized that it got better. It took me a little bit, but I feel like now I am connected to the Penn State community.