The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences takes great pride in recognizing the outstanding students in our program, and we are excited to showcase some of our amazing freshmen. Throughout the rest of the school year, we will feature these remarkable individuals through our “Student Spotlights” articles and social media posts.
This week, we’re excited to spotlight Julisa Lopez, a freshman majoring in Animal & Veterinary Biosciences from Cudahy, Wisconsin. With UW-Madison as a lifelong dream, she was drawn to its challenge and prestige. Now, she’s involved in research in Dr. Wiltbank’s lab and plans to join the Pre-Veterinary Association on campus. Passionate about reproductive health, Julisa aims to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and educate others in the field. She enjoys time at Memorial Union and is embracing the independence and growth that college brings.
Why did you choose to attend UW–Madison?
I chose UW-Madison because it had been my dream school since I was little and because I was always told by others that it would be a challenge to get into and that only the best would get in. So, I guess I chose it for the shock factor as well as the dream.
What clubs/organizations/activities are you involved with or plan to be involved with?
I am currently involved in research in Dr. Wiltbank’s laboratory and plan to join the Pre-Veterinary Association this semester.
Do you have an exciting class that you are taking/have taken and why?
I have taken Ansci 200 and ANSCO 102 lab. I’m currently taking Ansci 320 as well as the Ansci 114 lab in the poultry research center. I loved Ansci 200, as it reminded me of my AP biology class in high school that motivated me to choose my major in Veterinary Med, overall, it is just an enjoyable class where you do grow a greater appreciation for animals.
What are you looking forward to most about being a student at UW-Madison/the city of Madison/or college in general?
I look forward to seeing who I become as a person and a student. Ever since I left my hometown and my family, I really feel like I’m becoming more confident and starting to form into my own person without the weight of others on my shoulders, so I’m excited for the freedom and all the knowledge I’ll learn!
What are your future career plans?
I want to attend veterinary school to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Eventually, I would love to educate others, possibly on reproductive health, since that is my primary interest right now, though that may change. Additionally, I would like to become more involved in the veterinary community so I can learn as much as possible from specialists in different fields.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
My favorites spot on campus is Memorial Union.
What is your favorite Babcock ice cream flavor?
I’ve never had Babcock Ice cream… but my favorite flavor of ice cream is Vanilla Caramel Fudge.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
A fun fact about me is that I grew up around animals but was quite apprehensive of them, so I didn’t have much interaction with them as a child. Somehow, they found their way back to me, and now I love them all, big and small. I’ve always enjoyed biology and hands-on learning, so it all worked out in the end.