Colben Dodson

Year in school and major: Second-year veterinary medicine student

Hometown: Liberty, Kansas

What is your earliest K-State memory?

I remember going up to Manhattan throughout high school for various activities. It was always a fun atmosphere, and it gave you a real feel for what it was going to be like in the future. Students were always friendly, advisors were very helpful, and the community as a whole was very welcoming. It is hard not to enjoy a place when everyone around looks as if they are enjoying life and it just goes to show K-State is such a happy place.

Why did you choose K-State?

I chose K-State because I loved the family atmosphere. I had hopes of being here for well over four years of school, therefore finding somewhere that felt like home was important. The professors become like family members. They guide you and coach you, and they are always there when you need assistance. The connections that are made here are going to go with you for a lifetime, and to me that’s a big deal. When K-State comes at you with big open arms and a ton of resources that fit you, it’s hard to say no.

How are you involved at K-State?

In my undergraduate years, I was involved with a few activities in the College of Agriculture. I spent many hours assisting with the meat lab because of the opportunities that it provides to students. Now that I am in the College of Veterinary Medicine, I am involved in a variety of clubs that help extend my learning and get me out into the real world working with industry figures and producers from around the area.

What has been your favorite K-State experience?

My favorite part has been the lifelong friendships I have made. These are friendships that I can rely on for a lifetime when we get out into the industry. I always know that I have friends and professors that I have met during my time here at K-State who will always be a phone call away for assistance or questions. That makes life look a lot less daunting.

How does K-State care for Kansans in your hometown community?

Coming from such a rural area, K-State provides countless students with an education that allows us to go back to our hometowns and help build a community. There are many opportunities through K-State that allow you to filter back home with the resources it takes to be successful. That allows us to tell our story back home and hopefully show the younger generations what K-State is about.

Why do you want to bring K-State to your community?

I want to bring K-State back to my community to show that there is a path for everyone. The K-State family and faculty are here to serve you no matter the circumstances. There's always an option for every individual.