Emma Price
Major: Animal science
Minor: MCB
Classing Standing: Senior
Can you describe your role as a supervising teaching assistant with UConn’s FYE program?
I help first year students at UConn transition into their new college life. My specific role is overlooking the program and to facilitate discussions with other TAs.
How did you become a supervising teaching assistant?
I just moved up in the ranks. I applied to be a mentor my freshman year and I loved it! You think you’re helping others and suddenly you’re finding out about yourself. After being a mentor, I applied for teaching assistant position and then of course a supervising teaching assistant position.
How did you obtain the position of president of the pre-vet club and what are some of your responsibilities?
I ran to be the secretary my freshman year and then sophomore year I ran for president. I just gave a speech and they elected me, it’s been really fun!
One of my main responsibilities is to delegate tasks to other members. I oversee the whole club and the events and activities that we put on for the members. I also work closely with the faculty advisor and other faculty members on campus to make sure we’re providing the best activities and events for our members.
How did you get involved in the Connecticut Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at UConn?
Actually, through the same advisor for the pre-vet club. I’m in the honors program and I needed an honors thesis, so I approached her and asked if she had any space in her lab and she said I could come and work with her! I started in January 2013 and have loved it ever since.
What is your favorite part about the job?
Probably the research aspect, as frustrating as research is, it’s the troubleshooting part I enjoy. You never get the results you want and so troubleshooting allows you to learn a lot. And I think it’s really cool to be on the forefront of the medical field.
What is the most challenging part?
Probably troubleshooting, but also trying not to get frustrated when you hit a dead end. Some things don’t work out and you just have to look past it and keep going and stay positive.
What got you interested in animal science?
Ever since I was little I’ve always wanted to be a vet. I considered being a lawyer, but after shadowing a lawyer, I realized I hated it. I really enjoy the science aspect of it and I really love animals. Taking other courses outside of the science field only reaffirms my love for science.
Besides UConn’s FYE program, Pre-Vet Club, and the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, what else are you involved in?
I am the Vice President of the UConn Dressage Team. We ride horses competitively at horse barn hill and it’s a nice escape from schoolwork and stressors.
How do you balance everything on top of a full course load?
I think it’s important to have fun and have a social life. I make sure I spend time with my friends and laugh a lot. I need to prioritize often as well and cut things out that I think won’t help me towards my goal.
How have these jobs and leadership positions prepared you for what you want to do after graduation?
They have definitely given me more interpersonal communication skills and helped me to be more accepting and understanding of others and their personalities.
Do you have any advice for other UConn students based on your experiences?
Get involved. Everyone always says that, but I really believe it’s important because if you start out early and join several different clubs, you’re able to create connections and find things that you truly care about.
