Hannah Lanphere has utilized the opportunities available at Iowa State to shape her future as a veterinarian and jump into activities that helped her gain a diverse experience while at college.
Growing up in Manly, Iowa, Hannah was involved in lots of 4-H activities. It was through this that she got exposed to Iowa State and realized she wanted to get her degree here. After touring campus and meeting some animal science faculty, she knew it was the right fit.
Hannah has been involved in various clubs and activities during her time at Iowa State. Some of those include CALS Ambassadors, Veterinarians Without Borders, Line Dancing Club, ISU Marching Band, and Swing Dancing Club. She was also a Site Leader for Alternative Breaks, an animal science peer mentor, and did undergraduate research in Professor Tuggle’s SCID pig lab.
While at Iowa State, Hannah also works for Mg Biologics on the Herd Health Team. This, along with her undergraduate research work, is part of what she is most proud of from her time at college. “I’m glad I wasn’t afraid to try new things. I did not enter Iowa State with a significant amount of animal experience. It was out of my comfort zone to do undergraduate research and work for Mg Biologics because I don’t have prior pig or horse experience. I have grown so much as a person because of it.”
One of her favorite things Hannah has done at Iowa State was study abroad last year. “I traveled to Tanzania with a mix of animal ecology and animal science students. It was my first time abroad and such a great experience. We got to see all of the animals I had only ever read about before.”
After graduating, Hannah will be starting veterinary school at Iowa State in the fall. She is looking to focus her studies in food animal medicine. When asked about her career goals, Hannah said, “I want to be in a rural community and help support local producers.”
Hannah’s advice to current students is, “Don’t discredit yourself and don’t take for granted what you have to offer. I applied for a lot of things I didn’t feel qualified for but still got accepted. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new.”