I joined SAIL during my senior year at Iowa State. I had been actively searching for undergraduate research opportunities involving species I was passionate about, such as companion animals or exotics. However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that I was in Iowa—not my home state—and that swine was actually the species I had the least experience with. So, when Dr. Rosero reached out with an opportunity to be an undergraduate research assistant, I knew it was something I couldn’t pass up.
I started working on the swine farm, learning the ins and outs of biosecurity. Over time, I became comfortable measuring feed pre-mixes, weighing hundreds of pigs, and learning about the care of newly weaned piglets. My role gradually expanded to include analyzing feed and fecal samples in the lab and working with emerging technologies to track swine behavior. No two days were ever the same, and I quickly came to appreciate the diversity of tasks and challenges this work offered.
As I became a more active undergraduate member of the team, I was given the opportunity to lead my own pilot research study. The goal was to determine the most effective feeding frequency and comparing hand-feedings to automatic feeders. Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the responsibility, especially while juggling a full senior year course load; However, I also knew I’d regret not accepting the challenge. With support from Dr. Rosero and the graduate students, I helped plan the study, coordinate schedules, carry out the research, and analyze the data. Throughout the process, I asked countless questions, and each one was met with enthusiasm and a willingness to help me learn.
This pilot study became the highlight of my time at Iowa State. I truly believe that my experience with SAIL played a critical role in my veterinary school admissions process. During interviews, I was asked tough questions about animal welfare and the rights of research animals, but thanks to SAIL, I was able to speak with confidence. I shared what I had learned about animal welfare regulations, the rigorous training I underwent before interacting with the animals, and the valuable insights that come from a well-designed and ethically conducted study.
Beyond the research itself, one of the most impactful aspects of SAIL was the team’s culture of mentorship and collaboration. The willingness of team members to teach, answer questions, and provide constructive feedback played a large role in the success of my study. Their support gave me the confidence to take on even more responsibilities. In my final semester, I contributed to building the team website, creating a LinkedIn page, designing a bulletin board, and helping with the team logo.
Now, as I prepare to begin veterinary school at the University of Illinois this fall, I’m incredibly grateful for everything I gained from my time with SAIL. Working as an undergraduate research assistant provided me with more hands-on experience with swine, the ability to learn new laboratory analysis technologies, and the confidence in my abilities to read and write research. Additionally, I learned how important the people you surround yourself with truly are.
To the Swine Applied Innovations Lab, thank you for the countless opportunities to grow. I look forward to following the continued success of your research, and the members within it!