Mariana Pavia, VG26

From: Georgia

B.S., Animal Science with minor in Public Health, University of Georgia, 2020

Why did you choose to pursue the M.S. in Animals and Public Policy (MAPP) degree, and why did you choose Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine to pursue this degree?
Approximately one year ago, I decided that I wanted to further my education and pursue my master's degree. After looking into various master's programs at other universities, I decided that this program is best suited for my interests. At the University of Georgia, I studied both animal science and public health, and I found that the MAPP program perfectly combines both of those fields of study. I want to become an agent of change for animals, and I strongly believe that this program will provide me with the tools and skills I need to do so. After I spent some time looking further into the program, it became evident that the Cummings School was the ideal place to pursue this degree due to its curriculum and the vast opportunities it provides to the students. In addition, I have lived the majority of my life in Georgia, and I have heard great things about the Northeast, especially Massachusetts. All of these factors combined solidified my decision to pick Cummings School to pursue the M.S. In Animals and Public Policy.

What are your interests and/or experience related to the MAPP program?
Working with animals in order to improve their quality of life has always been an interest of mine. During my time at UGA, I realized that the public health field was becoming a great interest of mine, as well. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about policymaking because it showed me how we can make a direct impact on the lives of these animals, most of them helpless and in danger. Over the past few years, I was working as a veterinary technician at an animal shelter back in Georgia, and it further solidified my need and desire to dedicate my time and effort in order to help animals.

What are your career goals after completing the program?
I would love to work with wildlife rescue or rehabilitation centers whether it's as an animal caretaker or an advocate in education. I would also love to work with policymakers in order to draft and introduce policies that would help endangered animals all around the world. I'd be interested in performing the adequate research for such policies, as well.