MOUNT OLIVE – Kali Kasulis, a recent University of Mount Olive graduate, is taking the next step toward fulfilling her dream of becoming a veterinarian.
With a Bachelor of Science degree in Veterinary BioScience and minors in Chemistry and Biology, Kasulis is attending North Carolina State University (NCSU) College of Veterinary Medicine this fall.
Her journey is a testament to dedication, community involvement, and an unwavering passion for animal welfare.
A Passion for Veterinary Medicine
Kali Kasulis graduated from Charles B. Aycock High School in 2019 and enrolled at UMO that fall.
Born and raised in Goldsboro, Kasulis chose UMO because it was close to home and offered a new Veterinary BioScience degree, which aligned with her goal of becoming a veterinarian.
“UMO chose me,” said Kasulis, reflecting on how UMO Director of the Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center Edward Olive and Department Chair for Agriculture Sciences Dr. Heather Glennon approached her during FFA events to inform her about the program.
From a young age, Kasulis, was immersed in agriculture.
Her grandfather’s cattle operation sparked her interest in farm-to-table agriculture, and her experiences with FFA and 4-H further solidified her commitment to veterinary medicine.
“I grew up in family agriculture and was regularly involved in my grandfather’s cattle operation,” Kasulis, explained. “It was a natural progression to become involved in 4-H and FFA, raising and showing goats for market sales.”
A Defining Moment in Haiti
A pivotal moment in Kasulis’ life occurred during a mission trip to Haiti, where she witnessed the critical need for education and professional partnership in livestock health.
The experience profoundly impacted her, leading her to define her goal of becoming a food animal veterinarian.
“In Haiti, I saw many malnourished and unhealthy animals, which affected the stability of day-to-day lives in the community,” Kasulis shared. “I wish to be a partner in education and health management to local producers so they may raise healthy, profitable animals that receive their five freedoms while on this earth.”
An Impressive Academic Journey
While at UMO, Kasulis,excelled academically and was deeply involved in campus life. She served as an officer in the Collegiate FFA and Animal Science Club, earning accolades such as UMO Honors Student, Presidential Scholarship, UMO Marshall, and Agriculture Student of the Year. Kasulis’ involvement extended beyond the classroom as she participated in SAE camps, Middle School Science Camps, NC Agriculture Events, and Ag Fest, which shaped her collegiate experience and honed her leadership skills.
Kasulis’ work experiences further prepared her for a career in veterinary medicine. At Cherry Research Farm, she gained hands-on experience in cattle care. She worked closely with Dr. McDaniel at the NC Mobile Veterinary Service, gaining invaluable skills with large animals. She interned at the UMO Kornegay Student Farm. As a veterinary assistant at Brentwood Veterinary Center, she worked alongside mentors like Dr. Shannon Foy and Dr. Katherine Weppler, who have played significant roles in her journey.
Pursuing Veterinary Education
As Kasulis prepares to start her veterinary education at NCSU, she reflects on the support and guidance she received from the University of Mount Olive.
“UMO has prepared me, not only in the classroom but through personal and life skills taught along the way,” she noted. She specifically commented on Dr. Glennon, who has been pivotal in her academic journey, encouraging her to be herself and pursue her dreams relentlessly.
Kasulis’ long-term career goal is to become a mobile livestock veterinarian in Eastern NC.
She envisions building a career dedicated to supporting local farmers and ensuring the well-being of food animals.
“I know that God planted the seed of passion for veterinary medicine in me for a reason,” Kasulis,stated. “I dream of being a resource for people in Eastern NC and cannot wait to be at that point.”
