Animal Behavior with Elena

Transcript

Let’s hear from Elena, a double major in Animal Behavior and Theater Arts hailing all the way from Kirkland, Washington. There are very few animal behavior programs in the country and Carroll’s is the fourth largest. But college education is more than just learning skills for a job. Friendship and belonging are a key part of the Carroll experience, especially for students coming from out of state. Tell us more, Elena.

– Hey, Alex. It’s great to see you on campus. Coming here from the West Coast, I never dreamed that I would come to a small liberal arts college in the Midwest. But knowing my love for animals, my mom urged me to apply, and I couldn’t be happier to call Carroll my home. Having an Animal Behavior Program is rare. There are just over a dozen in the country, and Carroll’s is especially unique. The Animal Behavior Program allows me to explore different career paths, all while taking classes that genuinely interest me, like animal welfare and cognition. I even interned at the Milwaukee County Zoo where I learned about the care and training of exotic animals. And through a special canine care and management course, I get to train and foster a dog as part of my curriculum. I’ve been able to do other things I enjoy too, like performing. I have a second major in Theater Arts and participate in many of our productions. Ready to have your funny bone tickled? Join me and Funny Bone Mafia, Carroll’s own comedy improv team. Coming here from across the country, I was a little hesitant about making friends. But through my program and getting involved on campus, I truly feel like I found my family here at Carroll. I’m even the president and vice president of two student organizations. I don’t know what my plans are for after graduation yet, but I feel secure in the knowledge and skills I have gained. I have an amazing group of people to support me, both my friends and family, and the staff and faculty who have helped me find success at every step in my journey. If you’re like me and animals are your passion, Carroll is absolutely the place for you. Take it away, Alex.

– Elena, thank you for sharing the many ways Carroll feels like home for you. And those Pio puppies are absolutely adorable. This program provides valuable dog training for future service dogs, and it’s obvious that Carroll is always pioneering new programs to match student interests with their future career goals. Thanks again, Elena.