Students: People

Georgianna Mann
Animal Science Major

Unlike many college students, Georgianna Mann knows exactly where she wants to be in five years – working in New Zealand as a veterinarian specializing in horses and sheep. And, her experiences inside and outside the classroom at UGA, along with her “leave your comfort zone” mentality, helped her chart her course.

Q&A with Georgianna

What made you choose to attend UGA?

I was raised a Georgia Bulldog! Growing up I knew that UGA had a great vet school, and my dream has always been to become a veterinarian.

How many times have you changed your major? What made you settle on your current major?

I have only changed it once. I used to be an animal health major, but once I realized the animal science major would permit me to take animal practicum, I hopped on board right away. I recently decided to add a food science minor, shortly after taking Dr. (Rob) Shewfelt’s food issues and choices course.

What exposure did you have to agriculture before coming to CAES?

I have always worked with horses in a schooling facility. About four years ago, I got two of my own. I must confess, however, that the first time I worked with swine, cattle, and sheep was in my introduction to animal science lab.

What's your favorite class and why?

I absolutely have loved my animal science classes as well as my food science classes. I never dreamed that I would get class credit for shearing a sheep or developing coffee-flavored frozen custard. These classes are hands-on and allow me to do rather than just observe. Overall, I’d have to say my absolute favorite has been animal practicum. I never imagined being able to castrate piglets in class and palpate dairy cattle as an undergraduate.

Which instructor at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences has been the most influential?

I would have to say that Dr. (Dean) Pringle has definitely influenced my career path. He has encouraged me to become more involved in the animal science major as well as written countless recommendations for me. He was my first animal science instructor and I know I can count on him to help me with questions.

What's the most important thing you've learned this year?

I’ve learned that my major isn’t necessarily my career choice. It’s a way to help me reach the goal career that I want, but to also learn about other options available. Experimenting with classes is a great way to get the full UGA experience and possibly add a minor or even another major. I’ve learned that the undergraduate experience, while it is a “stumbling block” for a career, is something that should be enjoyed. I’m very fortunate to be taking classes that I love.

What’s one thing you’re always sure to take to class?

I am never without my agenda. I love to plan and stay busy. I never know when I’m going to hear about an event opportunity through the CAES as there is always something going on. Since I tend to have a lot going on at once, it’s very easy to forget about a quiz or a test in class without my planner to help me out.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years I would ideally be in the finishing semester of veterinary school. I would love to start my own equine medicine practice or maybe even work on the very abundant bovine population in New Zealand. I will certainly look into working and living in New Zealand and if the opportunity makes itself known, I will seize the chance to get experience abroad.

What's the strangest or coolest thing that's happened to you at UGA?

Coming from the heart of suburbia, I never dreamed that I would be showing a sheep in college. This past fall, I showed in Block and Bridle’s Little International and won Ovine Grand Champion. I had shown sheep once before during my freshman year, solely for the purpose of class extra credit, but I ended up absolutely loving the whole experience. It made me contemplate going abroad to New Zealand for the purpose of ovine veterinary medicine - a career path that I am still considering.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of class?

Strangely enough, I love my job. I’m currently an ambassador for the Study Abroad in South Pacific Program through the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources. I get to talk to other students about my favorite topic: New Zealand. I often visit classes and clubs to inform them about study abroad opportunities, as well as direct information sessions for students interested in the programs. It’s something that I am very passionate about and I think that every student who has the funds should study abroad, whether or not they need the class credit. I addition, I love participating in the UGA Horseman’s Association. We have biweekly meetings and have heard from a saddle fitter, professional eventer, and even an equine massage therapist.

Best advice for incoming freshmen:

Don’t play it “safe.” Go outside of your comfort zone and take interesting classes or study abroad. I went to New Zealand my freshman year, not knowing anyone on the trip. It was by far the best experience UGA has offered me. It has given me an on-campus job and countless contacts.

What is one thing about yourself that sets you apart?

I feel that as an animal science major I have received opportunities that few students at UGA are able to experience. By adding my minor, food science, I have also been able to take classes that are interactive. I feel that being a student ambassador combined with my different areas of expertise as an undergraduate student makes me better-rounded. On top of my academic involvements, I have served two leadership positions in my sorority. By involving myself in areas that are so different from each other, I feel that I set myself apart from other students on the UGA campus.

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