What is Animal Science

Animal science is a field that is "concerned with the science and business of producing domestic livestock species." In the field of animal science, the main focus is on beef and dairy cattle, horses, swine, sheep, and poultry, but if one wants to branch out into different animals, that is okay. "An animal scientist applies principles of the biological, physical, and social sciences to the problems associated with livestock production and management." Along with agricultural and livestock animals, animal scientists can also care for and work with companion, wildlife, laboratory, and zoo animals. Three of the main goals for those working in this field are to know what is involved in "animal production, care, and use." One could think that a background in farming is necessary for this field, but that is not true. One could start all the way from the bottom with no animal experience, and still manage to get a degree. (American Society of Animal Science, "What is Animal Science?") According to animalsmart.org, there are seven different fields that animal science includes: "nutrition, physiology, reproductive physiology, animal behavior, genetics and breeding, animal products, and education." (Animal Smart, "The Fields of Animal Science)

My interest in this field of science comes from my passion for being around and caring for all animals. My goal after getting my degree is to be able to work in an environment such as a zoo or an aquarium, with exotic animals being my main interest. My whole life, I have wanted to have a career with animals; nothing interested me more. The idea of being around animals every day and being able to train and care for them makes me even more excited to be a part of such a great field at such a great university. To start my path towards getting my degree in animal science, I have started taking basic animal courses such as "Introduction to Animal Agriculture" and "Companion Animal Bio and Mgmt". Taking these two classes and attending a lab once a week will improve my knowledge of animals and is essential for achieving my degree in the future.

-Jamie R.

Sources:
              "What Is Animal Science?" Asas.org. American Society of Animal Science, n.d. Web.    
        "What Is Animal Science?" Animal Science. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Sept. 2015.