University of Florida College of Agricultural and Life Sciences alumna Myriam (Lopez) Allen graduated with her bachelor’s degree from the Animal Sciences Department in 2003. She is currently working as an embryologist in a fertility clinic.

What brought you to CALS and your department? What first sparked your interest in your major?

I was a transfer from FSU and at the time UF did not offer a biology major. At the time, I was planning to attend veterinary school so I thought the Animal Sciences Department was a great option.

What do you find to be the coolest/best part of your job/career?

I work as an embryologist in a fertility clinic. Going in to work means that I get to help couples fulfill their dreams of expanding their families. I get to be a little part of the magic.

What advice would you give to students who are interested in the same major/career path as you?

I would recommend students look for extra curricular activities, join clubs, look into doing research or volunteering. I started to get more into reproductive physiology when I volunteered in Dr. Thatcher’s lab helping Ph.D. students with their projects. From there I moved on to volunteer with Dr. Drury at Shands Hospital in the IVF lab. They were both great experiences and I was able to use them as references later on when applying for jobs.

Animal Sciences students prepare for veterinary school; graduate programs in animal research; or careers in biological sciences, beef or dairy production, agribusiness, food production, and the equine industry. The Department offers five undergraduate program options and three graduate degrees. The program strives to create new solutions for tomorrow’s problems. In the areas of teaching, research, and extension, faculty integrate the most modern technologies available with personal expertise and attention to the needs of students and the industry. Find a CALS major that suits your interests by taking our majors quiz. You can also find information regarding our undergraduate and graduate programs on our website. Questions for Myriam Allen about her experiences in the Animal Science Department should be directed to Mmlooezvidal@gmail.com.

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