Reese Faherty '26, Animal Science
Reese Faherty '26, from Kingston, MA, is a B.S. Animal Science student in the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture.
Reese shared experience at UNH and some tips for incoming students.
Why did you choose UNH?
I chose UNH as it provided a strong program for what I was interested in and a variety of opportunities to grow in and outside the classroom with hands-on experience. I saw this school as the best fit for me with the scholarships I received academically. In addition, the campus is the perfect size and I love the community here.
What is your major and what do you love about it?
My major is Animal Science and what I love about it is that it combines my passion for animals with meaningful hands-on learning. I value studying the purpose of how animals behave, grow, and stay healthy. I've come to understand the importance of nutrition, anatomy, and welfare from my professors, who have a strong passion in this field, so it has been a rewarding experience.
What's the best academic experience you've had at UNH?
The best academic experience I've had is being able to apply what I've learned in lectures directly to labs. Whether it was performing a physical exam, providing a vaccine, or maintaining safe biosecurity, seeing that I could do something like this confirmed I chose the right major.
What's the best experience you've had at UNH outside the classroom/lab?
While my classes have brought new and exciting skills to my life, I'm also balancing being an athlete. During my time here I have devoted countless hours of hard work to the cheerleading team. Initially, I was coming to school with no interest to continue cheer. I didn't attend any recruiting events like most of the team did, but I made a last-minute decision to fill out the tryout form 30 minutes before it was due. I'm so thankful I did because it gave me a second family. I'm part of a National Champion Program that has carried great success these past few years and is continuing to dominate. It's definitely not easy, but the support we have of each other is what pushes us. The end goal is a hit routine deserving of that national title and ring, and we want another.
How is UNH preparing you to achieve your goals?
UNH has played a huge role in preparing me to achieve my goals through knowledge and support. My advisor and professors are willing to provide great detail in courses and career advice, as they care to keep me motivated and stay on track. There's a strong foundation here that's helped me remain confident even on days I don't do my best.
What should prospective students know about UNH?
UNH is a welcoming community. The school may seem big to some, but it does a great job at making classes smaller within majors so you can really connect with your other classmates. Classes can be challenging, but there are a lot of resources to help you be successful in the end. You can become part of so much here, whether it's a club, intramurals, an on-campus job, internships, research, etc.
Please share one unique or interesting fact about yourself.
When I have downtime, I like to draw or read. These are something I've also grown up loving, and it's something I find relaxing when I need an escape from all the chaos going on around me.
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