I chose to pursue a degree in animal science and animal welfare because I wanted to learn more about the scientific concepts that govern animals. The following reasons inspired me to venture into a career in animal science and animal health:
- The desire to assist society in recognizing the issues associated with animal production and management efficiency.
- Opportunity to help the food industry, which is the largest industry in the economy, efficiently produce, acquire, process, and consume high-quality meats and dairy products.
- I love companion animals; I am passionate about companion animals’ diet, treatment, and health, among other aspects.
- The variation in animal science and animal health fields helps me to learn more. For instance, with recent research to ensure food security, several advancements have been made, including use of robotics and drones to replace labor demand (Spaventa, 2020). The technological advancement has significantly increased production in dairy and livestock farming.
The first step in planning my working career is to develop a career mentality and say yes to new opportunities that come my way. I will concentrate on being goal-oriented and using the skills I gained at university to my benefit. I will demonstrate my work ethic, passion, uniqueness, and approach to working with others. I am eager to learn more about the organization where I will be working, and I can quickly adjust to and resolve any difficulties that might arise. I can also plan for my professional future in a way that will make me employable by obtaining a master’s degree while still working part-time to provide me with consistent experience and knowledge. I would be employable with satisfactory pay benefits if I had a detailed and deep understanding of my subject.
Empathy, especially the ability to commiserate with animal or pet-owning families, deep intuitive expertise, and practical conversation skills are among my most important skills. I also possess the ability to recognize and interpret empirical information associated with animal science. However, I need to work on the following aspects:
- How to stay up with technical advancements both within and outside of my profession. Keeping updated will help me be aware of the new skills I need as an animal scientist.
- How to deal with emerging challenges such as pandemics. Since the outbreak of animal diseases are common, equipping myself with skills to deal with such a situation is essential, and I am looking forward to acquiring such skills.
With each passing year of my academic study, I can use it as an environment for skills growth by learning new things. Animal science education and training will prepare me for difficult career prospects in livestock production, breeding, animal health, disease control, and many other areas. Working as an intern or assistant to supplement my knowledge with practical experience will allow me to develop my abilities, knowledge, and expertise more efficiently.
To achieve the study/life balance, which can also serve as a method for attaining a balanced work/life ratio, I would get involved in leisure activities. The most important measure to take first is to spend this quality time with my family members and friends. The main activities I am targeting include visiting animal parks and orphanages. I am also motivated by volunteering to save animals at the edge of becoming extinct by creating community awareness and capacity building. The aim of the abovementioned activities will be to maintain my sense of well-being while still effectively managing my studies and personal life.
Reference
Spaventa, S. (2020). Agriculture’s digital transformation. FarmTogether. Web.