Understanding Major Choice and Career Awareness of First-Semester Animal Science Students

Focus groups were conducted with first-semester, direct-from-high-school Animal Science (ANS) and Dairy Science (DYS) undergraduates in peer mentor groups as part of the ANS 1100 (Orientation in Animal Science) course. These focus groups are the initial phase of a mixed-methods project aimed at developing a survey for future incoming classes. The study explores students’ reasons for choosing their major, career awareness, pre-enrollment knowledge sources, and coursework and career expectations, with this report focusing on the first two objectives. Fourteen focus groups were held, with 90 of 115 students attending (78%). Recordings were transcribed, and key themes were identified. Students chose the ANS or DYS majors due to a mix of personal passion, career goals, and influential experiences. A strong interest in working with animals, hands-on learning opportunities, and clear career pathways—especially in veterinary medicine and animal production—were key factors. External influences, such as family, mentors, and the university’s reputation, also shaped their decisions. While students generally understood career paths, their knowledge was largely limited to familiar roles like veterinary practice and farm management. Awareness of niche or emerging opportunities was lower, suggesting gaps in pre-enrollment knowledge and early curriculum exposure.