Year: 2024

Animal science major Madison Petersen cares about animals and sees how supporting their health and autonomy can better help humans. In her two experiments as an Undergraduate Research Scholar, she tried to improve dairy cows’ health – and learned the value of being flexible in her research.

Makenzie Harrison had plans to travel a straight path to veterinary school when she enrolled in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences’ animal science program in 2021. But, during her four years as an undergraduate, her attention shifted, thanks in part to the Undergraduate Research Scholar Program and a unique breed of sheep.

Agricultural education major Ja’Quan Battle wants to help small-scale North Carolina farmers facing economic challenges. Overcoming challenges is something the 2024 graduate understands well; he is an overcomer himself.

Graduate student Erika Pearsall wants to make a long-term impact on the dairy industry. Her studies in bovine reproduction as an Undergraduate Research Scholar, in the Department of Animal Sciences, aim to help both people and cattle in the long-term.