Jerilyn Nelson

Year in school: First year doctor candidate

Major: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine candidate at the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine

Hometown: Soldier, Kansas

My earliest K-State memory came very early in my life around the age of seven. Growing up I was very heavily involved in 4-H and FFA. I was very involved in livestock judging and horse judging, competing all over the United States. The state 4-H and FFA contests were held on the K-State campus, so every year I would be in my second home doing what I loved.

Why did you choose K-State?

I chose K-State because it always felt like home to me. I have always been a homebody and have wanted to be close to home. Ever since I stepped foot on the K-State campus, I knew that this was the place for me.

How are you involved at K-State?

During my three years as an undergrad in animal science, I was involved in many different things. I was a College of Agriculture Ambassador, a member of the Alpha Zeta agricultural honor fraternity, a member of the Kansas State Block and Bridle club, among others. I held several officer positions for Alpha Zeta as well as Block and Bridle. In addition to this, I was a member of the Kansas State University Collegiate Horse Judging team where my team and I competed all over the U.S. at several contests.

What has been your favorite K-State experience?

My favorite K-State experience has been participating in the K-State Animal Science Academic quadrathlon. This is a competition where students from a team of four and go through four different components of the competition which include a written exam, lab practicum, quiz bowl, and oral presentation. At the end of the competition the scores are tallied, and the top three teams are announced. To top it off, my team won first place and got the opportunity to represent K-State ASI at the regional competition.

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

K-State cares for my community by always being available to answer questions for students interested in pursuing a degree at Kansas State and is always the source of knowledge surrounding veterinary medicine and livestock well-being for our community.

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

I want to bring K-State to my community to show my hometown what an amazing place this is as well as all the amazing people that come with it. I want to show my community the same love and support that K-State has shown me, and being a part of this opportunity is invaluable to me.