The summer of 2020 was unique to say the least. Going into my sophomore year, I knew college was quickly approaching, and I needed to start preparing. Since I was young, I have had a passion for animals and wanted to become a veterinarian.
Because when I was about 6 years old, my family adopted a border collie puppy named Baye. Sadly, the puppy, who was born in a puppy mill, died of parvo at a very young age. I would never wish this experience on anyone, and I knew I had to prevent this from happening to others. Through my veterinary practice, I hope to save animals with parvo, along with other life-threatening conditions. I wish I could help every animal in need and end their suffering. By becoming a veterinarian, I can try to help some live better lives, and knowing that brings me comfort.
So when I was thinking of what I could do to prepare myself for becoming a veterinarian and what leadership positions would help me stand out on college applications, I started a Carroll club, Animal Service Club, for students who aspire to pursue a career centered on veterinary sciences or have a passion for animals. I wanted to not only regularly volunteer at an animal shelter but also help connect other animal lovers with service opportunities. Even those who don’t want to be vets are welcome. I was overwhelmed with excitement when more than 50 students wanted to join the club. Turns out, animals are a great way to bring CHS and CSHS students together.
We have already done many service projects this year, like working with the horses at Ride With Pride in Southlake, volunteering at the Humane Society of North Texas in Keller and hosting a fundraiser for not only our club but also local shelters. One of our bigger projects included making holiday bandanas for the Humane Society of North Texas pets who were participating in its annual holiday adoption event at the Will Rogers Arena. I thought it would be a great idea to make bandanas that said “Adopt me!” on them, bringing attention to these animals and hopefully helping them find their forever homes.
It was not as easy as it seemed. First, we held a fundraiser to collect the funds we needed for the supplies. We sold super cute sweatshirts for $30 each, which helped us raise enough money that we were even able to donate the leftovers to local shelters. After taking the money out of our school account, we selected the fabrics from Hobby Lobby and made 100 bandanas of various sizes. All that work paid off after we saw the animals sporting them at the event.
What started as a way to help me with college applications became so much more. Creating and running the Animal Service Club definitely isn’t easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I love getting to help animals and connect aspiring vets or animal lovers with service opportunities.
Reagan Needleman is a Carroll sophomore and the president of CISD’s Animal Service Club.
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