Jackie Laliberte ’13

“The best thing about the Animal Behavior major is what you learn. Since animals can't tell us how they feel/what they think, we have to find other ways to discover that. You start to get really good at deciphering body language and can't help but people watch, haha. Honestly, Comparative Animal Behavior was the best and most informative class!

"Another great thing about the major is the teachers. You are able to get a lot of one on one time and when you get a good grade on an exam or paper, you feel extra good because the teachers are tough and really push your limits. Dr. D and Dr. Stevenson were my favorite teachers.

"My degree definitely helped me get to where I am. During my hiring process, over 50 people applied to be an Animal Control Officer, some of which were already certified with the state and had experience. However, after I was hired my boss told me that one of the things that set me apart from the rest was the fact that I had a degree in such a rare field. I will say that one of the things I use on a daily basis is my animal handling skills that I learned from internships. I constantly come into contact with dogs, cats, horses and wild animals like skunks, raccoons, foxes, etc. When I approach an animal I am always observing body language. It comes in handy when I am able to foresee a possible dog bite or horse that is agitated and ready to kick so that I can respond with more caution and prevent getting injured. I have been an Animal Control Officer in Wells, ME for just over a year. I still love my job and don't see myself in any other career yet. I experience new things every day and am constantly learning. Without my attendance at UNE as an Animal Behavior major, I don't think that I would have been as successful.”