Meet Ashlee: Master Research Assistant and Future Veterinarian

I felt like a proud auntie speaking to Ashlee. Her passion, determination, and drive were evident in every word she spoke. It doesn’t take a psychic to know that this young lady is going places—she’s a rising star with big dreams and the talent to back them up.

Name: Ashlee

Occupation: Master’s Research Assistant in Animal Science and Graduate Student, N.C. A&T State University, Future Livestock Veterinarian

Background

Ashlee originally dreamed of becoming a forensic pathologist but discovered her true passion for working with animals during college. While earning her biology degree, she volunteered at a therapeutic horse facility, helping individuals with disabilities build strength and confidence through horseback riding. From there, her love for animals led her to pursue various animal-focused roles, including working at doggy daycares, shelters, and vaccination clinics.

Currently, Ashlee works as a research assistant, focusing on how alternative pig diets affect growth and liver gene expression, contributing to sustainable solutions for farmers.

Her HBCU

Ashlee is a proud Aggie (Aggie Pride!!). She earned her bachelor’s degree in biology from N.C. A&T State University in Greensboro, NC, and is currently pursuing her Master’s in Integrated Animal Health Systems. The university boasts a University Farm and Laboratory Animal Resources Unit, which houses 14 species of animals.

How She Started Learning Her Craft

Ashlee’s journey began with hands-on experience. From her college volunteer work to entry-level jobs in animal care, she built a strong foundation by gaining practical experience. These roles allowed her to explore her passion for animals and sparked her interest in research.

In her current role as a research assistant, she balances hands-on work with pigs and lab-based analysis, continually building her expertise through collaborative research projects.

All in a Day’s Work

No two days are the same for Ashlee. Some days, she spends time with her 600-pound swine friends, caring for and feeding them—she’s even performed artificial insemination! Afterward, she might dive into research. On other days, you’ll find her in the lab for up to 14 hours, examining specimens and analyzing data.

What She Loves About Her Job

“I love the variety—working directly with animals one day and diving into lab research the next,” Ashlee shared. She also enjoys contributing to meaningful research that helps farmers improve sustainability in agriculture. The open-mindedness and exposure to new opportunities are what excite her most.

Biggest Challenge

Initially, Ashlee faced imposter syndrome, as many of her colleagues had grown up on farms while she had not. However, she overcame this by embracing her unique perspective and focusing on her education and contributions.

Advice to Other Black Women Who Want to Do What She Does

• Don’t underestimate the importance of entry-level jobs to help you gain experience and build your resume. Ashlee says, “I’ve worked my way into a lot of great things based on my entry-level experience.”

• Seek out mentors and embrace opportunities to learn, even outside of traditional education.

  
  

Future Goals

Ashlee’s ultimate goal is to become a livestock veterinarian and researcher, bridging the gap between veterinary medicine and agricultural science. She’s particularly passionate about bringing diversity and new perspectives to an industry that remains underrepresented.

Fun Fact

Ashlee has just one dog of her own, but her home is always buzzing with furry friends. As a pet sitter for Rover, she often welcomes extra companions into her home.