Military Graduate Student Focus | Jenelle Catalina

"My favorite thing about Hood is being able to take classes at night. This flexibility allows me to work during the day and continue my education at night."

Jenelle Catalina, M.S. in Biomedical Science

Program

Biomedical Science (M.S.)

Department

Biology

Graduate School
Graduate Student
Military

Academics
Natural Sciences

09/22/2021

Jenelle Catalina is currently enrolled in the M.S. in Biomedical Science program at Hood College. Jenelle joined the US Army in 2018 as a Laboratory Technician and is stationed at Fort Detrick. After graduation, Jenelle hopes to attend veterinary school.

Tell us about yourself and experiences before coming to the Graduate School at Hood College.

I was born and raised in Watertown, NY. After high school I attended Le Moyne College and received my Bachelor’s in Biology.

After I graduated college I worked for a couple years at a veterinary hospital and I joined the Army in 2018 as a 68K, Laboratory Technician. My first duty station was Fort Detrick in Frederick, MD.

How did you hear about Hood College?

I heard about the MOU that Hood College had with Fort Detrick while I was in training at Fort Belvoir in VA. When I arrived at Fort Detrick, I enrolled in the M.S. in Biomedical Science program.

I started in Fall 2020 during COVID and I was pleased with the way the college had handled everything during that time. Everything was established online. My classes were great and everyone did an excellent job making accommodations through Blackboard and Zoom.

What have you enjoyed most about your time at Hood College?

My professors have been wonderful at communicating during my time here and seem really passionate about their work.

My favorite thing about Hood College is being able to take classes at night. This flexibility allows me to work during the day and continue my education at night.

Any other fun facts you'd like to share?

My ultimate goal is to apply to veterinary school, my top choice is Cornell.

The education, along with experiences, I am receiving at Hood College are giving me a broader knowledge of the sciences and I am taking classes that will better prepare me for my application to veterinary school. I look forward to what the future has to bring.

I also like to volunteer for a horse rescue on the weekends.

Inspired by Jenelle's story and ready to #GOFURTHER in your education and career? Learn about Hood’s graduate programs, including the M.S. in Biomedical Science program, by clicking here.