The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Corps are chosen to serve as representatives to all constituents of CAS and to create, promote and execute opportunities for academic and professional growth. These students represent a variety of departments from across CAS and will represent the College at events through interaction among current students, future students, parents, donors and alumni.
Throughout the year, we will be introducing new students representing the College in the 2024-25 academic year through a question and answer format. For more about the CAS Corps, visit: cas.appstate.edu/students/cas-corps.
Nathaia Lassiter
Year: Junior
Major: Veterinary Technology
Hometown: Statesville, N.C.
What brought you to App State?
“Being introduced to the Veterinary Technology program. I have always loved App State. The campus is beautiful and I am naturally naturistic, so being accepted into the Veterinary Technology program sealed the deal into looking for schools. I can now take further steps into my career and coming closer towards my dreams.”
What scholarship(s) have you received from Appalachian or while studying at Appalachian?
The Appalachian College Opportunity Grant
What research or coursework have you been most passionate about?
“Animal Behavior, Surgical Procedures, and Veterinary Nursing”
Which location(s) do you hope to visit for an internship, a study abroad trip, a research experience, or just for fun?
“I must go back to Africa. Zimbabwe was an amazing trip by far. I would love to go to Australia to practice veterinary medicine on conservation animals.”
What is one of your favorite memories at Appalachian thus far?
“My study abroad trip to Zimbabwe!”
What are your hobbies?
“Working out, reading, and teaching Sunday School at my church!”
What is your favorite book, podcast, artist, and/or television show?
“My favorite book is currently Authentically, Uniquely You.”
Tell us about one faculty or staff member that has made an impact on your life and how.
“Jennifer Serling! She has stepped in to help me in more ways than one. She has gone above and beyond to encourage me and provide substantial knowledge that has guided me into the student I am.”
What do you feel has been valuable in your education at Appalachian versus another institution?
“The community has been wonderful and extremely valuable. The unwavering support from different departments to ensure you have the best experience and become the best version of yourself you can be.”
What do you hope to do after graduation?
“I hope to work in a clinic as a Registered Veterinary Technologist and then apply to veterinary school!”
###
About the Department of Rural Resilience and Innovation
Appalachian State University’s Department of Rural Resilience and Innovation is one of 17 academic departments in the College of Arts and Sciences and serves as a hub for App State faculty, staff and students working on scholarship, teaching and service with rural community partners. The department, which launched in summer 2021, is home to App State’s online, four-year Bachelor of Science in veterinary technology degree and offers seed grants to fund research or service-learning class collaborations that address challenges faced by rural American communities. Learn more at rri.appstate.edu.
Compiled by Lauren Gibbs
December 11, 2024
BOONE, N.C.
CAS Corps member Nathaia Lassiter is a junior veterinary technology major from Statesville. Photo submitted
CAS Corps member Nathaia Lassiter is a junior veterinary technology major from Statesville. Photo submitted