CAHNRS Coug Connections: Katie Doonan

Each week, we showcase one of our CAHNRS Ambassadors, a student leadership organization that encourages students to pursue higher education and serves as a liaison between the college and the greater community. This week, we’re featuring Katie Doonan, a sophomore from Bishop, Calif.

Profile photo of Katie Doonan
Katie Doonan

What are you studying?

I’m majoring in Organic Agriculture Systems and Pre-Medicine, with a minor in Animal Science.

Why did you choose WSU?

I chose WSU because I felt encouraged to follow my own pathway instead of just being another nameless, faceless student. They encouraged outside of the box thinking and never pushed me onto a path that I did not want.

What is special about being a CAHNRS Coug?

CAHNRS is truly a family. On the university level you have a home, but CAHNRS is a diverse group of people that constantly push you to strive for more, and support all your goals.

What is your favorite CAHNRS class so far and why?

My favorite CAHNRS class has been Soil Science 101, or the introduction to organic farming and gardening. It encompassed almost all levels of the organic process, but we also got to do hands-on lessons like transplanting seeds and exploring the organic farm.

Who are influential professors that you’ve had, and how did they impact your life?

John Reganold is my favorite professor thus far, but he is also my advisor, department chair, and research mentor. He encourages all my goals and works with me on every step of the process.

Jeb Owen has also taught me to think beyond what you are told and inspired a love of learning beyond what I’m immediately interested in.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in besides ambassadors?

I am also involved in the American Medical Student Association and I am actively involved in the fitness programs through the University Recreation center.

What is a fun fact about you?

I learned how to drive tractors when I was 8!

What advice would you give an incoming freshman/high school senior to help them adjust to college?

I would say keep an open mind and enjoy the learning process because these topics can be so fun if you let them. Talk to your professors as much as possible because they can help with all aspects of college life and can be genuinely fun people!

Favorite item/flavor at Ferdinand’s?

Cookies and Cream milkshakes and Natural Viking Cheese!