With the help of family, agriculture and the Texas Tech College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Jordanna Franklin is achieving her life-long dream of entering the medical field. The fourth-year medical student will graduate in May from the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, with hopes to begin a pediatric residency soon after. She credits her unique perspective as a med student to her experience as an animal science undergraduate.

The Sterling City native said agriculture has always been her way of life; she grew up immersed in it and it became part of her. "I knew it was a part of me that I didn't want to leave behind when I went to college," Franklin said. "An animal science degree was the perfect compromise that allowed me to integrate the comfort of my past with my hopes for the future."

Being the daughter of two Texas Tech alums, Franklin's decision to attend Texas Tech after high school was natural. Growing up, she became a Red Raider herself as she made frequent trips to Lubbock with her parents to cheer on the football team. "I visited a few other schools before I submitted my college applications, but nothing evoked the same sense of pride and belonging that I felt at Tech," Franklin said.

Once in Lubbock, she quickly realized Tech's Department of Animal and Food Sciences was her perfect academic home. Department advisors assured her that the animal science degree program could easily incorporate the medical school prerequisites that she needed. She was also quickly encouraged to take advantage of the various research, volunteer, and leadership opportunities that were available in the college.

The critical thinking process she learned in animal science was beneficial in her studies of anatomy, physiology and pathology. She felt well prepared for medical school and her animal science background gave her a unique perspective. "In agriculture, there are many life lessons about persistence, honesty, helping your neighbor, and doing your best with the situation you are given," she said. "I think these lessons have carried me through my medical education."

Once completing her three-year residency, Franklin plans to stay active in agriculture by living on her ranch with her husband while working in the San Angelo or Abilene area. "I'm so thankful for the people I have met through CASNR, including faculty and classmates that have grown to be lifelong friends," Franklin said. "It's an incredibly encouraging and supportive environment."

Written by Elizabeth Bertrand

CONTACT: Leslie Thompson, Chair, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Texas Tech University at (806)742-2805 or leslie.thompson@ttu.edu

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