Hannah Dicken, VG23

Hannah Dicken, VG23

Biography

Illinois

BS, Biology, Eastern Illinois University, 2022
Certification in Environmental Sustainability and Carbon Capture/Sequestration

Why did you choose to pursue this program degree?

When I was looking for a graduate program, I was looking for something focused on animals, but I also wanted something unique that would also get me out of my comfort zone. This program definitely does that.

I am incredibly interested in working for an animal shelter one day, but I am also very intrigued by the ability to learn more about wildlife in captivity. I worked at Scovill Zoo for two years so I have a lot of interest in that particular area and this program is the best place for me to explore these interests! I was able to further my love of wildlife during that time at Scovill and was able to get some hands-on experience with some pretty interesting animals. I have also been working in different vet clinics on and off starting when I was 17 years old, so I have a lot of experience with small animals as well!

Why did you choose Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine to pursue your degree?

I am 15 hours away from my hometown, and the program is unlike any of the other animal related Master’s programs I have seen. I am also very interested in shelter work as a potential career when I graduate so this is a great step in that direction.

What are your career goals after completing the program?

Ideally, after finishing the MAPP, I would go to a DVM program (hopefully here). From there I want to pursue options in Shelter Medicine, Exotic Medicine, or researching zoonotic diseases.