important lesson is learned when you realize that you are responsible for another being, for helping to bring them into the world, for their daily care, for their well-being. I believe it is this mentality, engrained from such a young age, that has helped me thrive throughout medical school. If it had not been for the sheep and the farm, I don’t think I would have developed the skill set necessary to be successful in the journey to become a doctor.
Another unique aspect of growing up in the livestock industry is the opportunity to take on leadership positions from a young age. Whether it is being the president of your 4-H club or serving on a state or national committee for your species or region, they familiarize you with being involved in the higher-level process and decision-making efforts of organizations. These experiences have made me comfortable, and driven my interest, in taking on leadership roles, and more importantly, giving opportunities to those in the next generation. This is one of the reasons that I felt that I would be a great fit to serve on the UNE Board of Trustees. This unique opportunity gives a student the experience to serve on, and give the student perspective to, the Board of Trustees regarding all aspects of the university. As someone who has always been an “ideas” person and who enjoys the long-term planning aspect of an organization, serving as the student trustee is a position that I have truly enjoyed. I constantly draw from my leadership and committee experiences in the sheep industry as a way to bring new ideas and viewpoints to the University. I see it is a great honor to serve the students, not only in COM but throughout the entire University.
Throughout my first three years of medical training, one thing that I have started to become interested in is cultivating rural talent and giving students from rural agricultural communities opportunities to pursue a career in the medical field. This feels like a natural pairing of the two largest aspects of my life, and a way to give back to the rural communities that need strong medical care. As I move through the different phases of becoming a physician, I know that this is something that will continue to play a part in my decision-making and will remain something I feel strongly connected to.
They say that agriculture is something that is just in your blood and for me, I know that is true. Raising and showing livestock has become an integral part of who I am and has sculpted many of my core values and made me who I am today. I know that I still have a long road ahead in becoming a physician and going through residency, however I know that I will always have sheep in my life as a way to decompress and return to my roots. Any chance I have to be out amongst the flock or in the barn is time well spent and reminds me of why I enjoy raising sheep. They remain my passion, my home base, and where I am most at peace. They take me back to that ten-year-old kid I once was who was proud to be able to take care of his little flock and win his first ribbons. I believe that having strong interests and hobbies outside your chosen career field make you a stronger worker and all-around person. I know that raising sheep isn’t the simplest hobby, or one that is always easy, but the joy and rewards that come from them is truly worth every minute.