Featured Member: Jayla McCoy on HBCU CONNECT!

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Q&A With Jayla McCoy

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Jayla McCoy
animal care attendant , Midwest animal hospital
Location: chicago, IL United States
Joined: Jul 8th, 2025

About (request update)

With extensive hands-on experience in animal science and veterinary support, I’ve developed a strong foundation in both clinical procedures and animal care. I’ve worked in an animal hospital where I assisted with C-section deliveries, humane decapitations for lab samples, and the daily care of boarding animals, including feeding, walking, and monitoring their health.

In addition to hospital work, I’ve performed dissections on rats, frogs, and other specimens to study anatomy and teach younger students about biological systems. I’ve also conducted ultrasound scans on sheep, gaining valuable experience in diagnostic procedures and animal handling in field settings. These opportunities have deepened my understanding of animal physiology and strengthened my interest in veterinary medicine.

Current Whereabouts:

I enjoy sewing and doing arts and crafts, which have become my favorite hobbies. Whether I’m making clothes, customizing bags, or creating handmade decorations, I love t these activities.

Life & Professional Aspirations:

I want to become a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals because I’m passionate about caring for unique and often misunderstood creatures. I’m fascinated by their diverse biology and eager to provide them with the specialized medical care they need. My goal is to help improve the health and well-being of exotic pets and wildlife. I would also life to own my own rescue center.

Education (request update)

Tuskegee University class of 2028

Undergrad Major: Animal Science

Claim To Fame:

My claim to fame in college is being the one who always shows up, steps up, and speaks out. Whether it's leading group projects, helping classmates study, or being the voice in discussions that others are too shy to start, I’ve built a reputation for being dependable, motivated, independent, and passionate. I’m known for bringing people together no matter if it's through community service or just being someone people can count on for support and encouragement. I’m also recognized for staying committed to my goals, pushed through challenges, and stayed true to who I am no matter what anyone thinks. People remember me not just for what I do, but for the way I do it. That’s what makes me stand out.

Most Memorable Moment:

One of my most memorable moments in college was when I got the opportunity to visit a local elementary school and lead a hands-on rat dissection lesson for the students. It was part of a volunteer opportunity meant to spark early interest in science, and I was both excited and a little nervous. I wasn’t sure how the kids would react to something as intense as dissection, but their curiosity and excitement blew me away. I guided them through the process, explaining the organs, their functions, and the importance of anatomy in understanding life sciences. Their questions were thoughtful, and they were genuinely engaged. Some even said it was the coolest thing they’d ever done in school. Watching their eyes light up as they learned something new reminded me why I chose my field. That experience made me feel like a role model and solidified my passion for animal science and the future of the study. It showed me how powerful it can be to share what I’m learning with others and helped me realize that I want to continue creating those moments of wonder and discovery wherever my future takes me.

Experience

I currently work with Midwest animal hospital as animal care attendant
I have 2 years of experience working in the industry.

Animal care attendent | Midwest animal Hospital
From August 2023 to July 2024 • 1 year(s)
A dedicated and compassionate animal care attendant with experience supporting veterinary hospital staff in both clinical and kennel settings. Skilled in feeding, walking, and monitoring boarding animals, as well as assisting with medical procedures. Reliable team member who ensures a clean, safe, and stress-free environment for animals while supporting veterinarians and technicians with restraint, equipment prep, and post-operative care. Passionate about animal welfare and committed to high standards of care and professionalism.

vet assistant | Wilco area career center
From August 2022 to May 2023 • 1 year(s)
The Wilco Area Career Center’s Veterinary Assistant Program is a hands-on course for high school juniors and seniors that prepares students for entry-level roles in veterinary settings. The program covers animal science topics such as anatomy, nutrition, behavior, and veterinary office procedures, while offering real-world experience working with both large and small animals. Students train in a fully equipped clinic, follow safety protocols, and have the opportunity to earn dual credits, making it a strong foundation for those pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.

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