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First-Gen, Future Vet: Layla Watkins Redefines Her Path Through Research and Reflection

Posted on May 07, 2025 at 10:12 AM

Layla Watkins, a first-generation college student from Decatur, Georgia, is preparing to graduate from Fort Valley State University with a bachelor’s degree in animal science. Her college journey has been filled with growth, reflection and an evolving sense of purpose.

When Layla began her studies at FVSU, she envisioned the future as a veterinarian. Still, she wasn’t entirely sure where she fit within the field. To gain clarity, she started volunteering at animal clinics. However, the clinical side of veterinary work didn’t excite her as she had hoped. Though this led to moments of uncertainty, she stayed focused on her academics and continued to explore her interests.

A key moment came when she attended the Agriculture Future of America Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. Layla noticed how few students across the country shared her background and experiences. That realization was powerful and motivating, encouraging her to think more deeply about her place in veterinary medicine.

Soon afterward, Layla joined the Valley Scholars Research Program and began her first research internship. There, she discovered a genuine passion for research and the thrill of asking meaningful questions and working toward real solutions. Still, she was unsure how to combine this passion with her original goal of becoming a veterinarian.

The connection became apparent at the Animal Institute Conference, also in Kansas City, where she toured Hill’s Pet Nutrition and learned about the role of a research veterinarian. This was Layla's “aha” moment. She didn’t have to choose between her research and veterinary medicine interests. She could pursue both. After this realization, she completed two additional research internships.

During her final internship at Utah State University, where she worked with embryos, Layla decided to apply to veterinary school. Her summer in Logan, Utah, was one of the most challenging and rewarding periods of her academic life. It allowed her to reflect on her “why”. That perspective became central to her veterinary school application, and she was thrilled to be accepted on her first attempt.

Layla will begin her next chapter at St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine this fall.

She expresses deep gratitude to the College of Agriculture, Family Sciences and Technology at Fort Valley State University, which provided her valuable opportunities, from presenting at national and state research conferences to participating in leadership programs and animal science institutes.

Layla is incredibly thankful to the professors and mentors who supported and believed in her throughout her journey. As she moves forward, she carries FVSU with her, which is always proud to call her first home.

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