ASUMH Keystone Spring 2018 ASUMH Keystone Magazine Spring 2018 | Page 9

JILL
ROACH
FACULTY - LIFE SCIENCE
KEYSTONE FACULTY
What path led you to ASUMH? I What led you to the discipline you teach? Math and science were
grew up on dairy and beef cattle farms
and had a love for animals. I showed
cattle and horses and made the decision to pursue veterinary medicine as my
career.  I graduated from Oklahoma State University School of Veterinary Medicine
and began working at a small animal practice. After a few years, I chose to teach
for 10 years at MHHS. I am currently in my fifth year at ASUMH. always my strengths, so I declared my major in chemistry at UCA.  After graduating
with my Bachelor of Science in chemistry with a minor in math, I completed my
Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine.  With these two degrees, I have taught chemis-
try, physics, biology, anatomy & physiology, and AP Biology at the high school level. 
With my background in veterinary medicine, anatomy & physiology, microbiology,
and animal science at ASUMH are a natural fit.
Did you run int o any obstacles along your path? I believe that events What can students expect to learn in your classroom? My goal is that
students have the knowledge laid out into specific course objectives as they move
into the next steps toward their degree.  I hope they also walk away with time man-
agement skills, good study skills, self-discipline, and a sense of accomplishment. 
Q&A
in life happen for a reason. Obstacles often close doors, but if you are looking,
another door will open.  I believe that these events are what led me to ASUMH. 
The decision to leave veterinary medicine was hard, but I believe for me it was the
right decision. 
What kinds of jobs are available to students who are in your
discipline? For the students in anatomy & physiology and microbiology, many
What advice would you give students looking for their life’s
path? Education opens doors. Find something that interests you or that you en-
careers in the medical field are options. I currently have students interested in
nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, radiology, sonography and
chiropractic fields. I have also had students in my courses who pursued an
education degree to teach science.  For my animal science students, examples of
career opportunities include the areas of livestock/farm management, pre-veteri-
nary medicine, agricultural loan officer, and state or county extension agent.
joy and make the decision.  Investigate careers, search for opportunities to gain
some experience in your field of interest, and set goals.  Life may take you in a
different direction.  You may change your career path along the way or even after
you complete your degree. You take all these experiences with you, and they mold
you into who you are. I am a prime example. Whether you earn a two- or four-year
degree or complete a technical training program, you are more marketable in the
workforce.  An education is something no one can take away from you. 
Why is ASUMH a good choice for students? ASUMH is a great choice
for students for several reasons, including affordability, small class size and several
degree choices. 
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