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From the bright lights of the big city to the wide-open fields of a small town, Jacqueline Fogel traveled nearly 2,000 kilometres in search of the right path—and found a place that instantly felt like home.

“Transferring to a new program, to a new school and to a new province, there was definitely a lot of anxiety but as soon as I arrived on campus, it felt like home,” said 2025 Bioveterinary Science graduate Jacqueline Fogel. 

Originally from Toronto, Ontario, Jacqueline began her undergraduate journey studying general and chemical engineering at Queen’s University. Although engineering seemed like a natural choice at the time—especially after spending high school immersed in robotics - Jacqueline always knew she wanted to work with animals having been an employee for the Toronto Zoo for four summers. 

“I spent my first two seasons as a camp counsellor for Zoo Camp and my last two seasons in wildlife care, colloquially referred to as being a zookeeper,” she explained. Jacqueline worked closely with a wide range of species and was deeply involved in breeding and reintroduction efforts for several endangered species, including the eastern loggerhead shrike, black-footed ferret and Vancouver Island marmot.

When Jacqueline realized her engineering program was not sparking joy, she and her mom began researching animal science programs. She spent the past five semesters completing her degree at the Faculty of Agriculture in Truro, Nova Scotia

“I really liked that the campus had a working farm,” she explained.  “Prior to becoming an Aggie, I had never interacted with cows, sheep, or poultry before.
Many staff members as well as former professor Dr. Janine Gray, were also very accommodating and welcomed me to Dal with open arms,” she added.   

The campus’ proximity to nature was also a massive perk and one she had not anticipated—the Salmon River, Cobequid Trail, Victoria Park, MacElmons Pond and the Bay of Fundy were all places she frequented by herself or with friends.

“I will carry fond memories of Truro, Nova Scotia with me for the rest of my life,” she said.

From hands-on classes to events like College Royal, Jacqueline’s passion for animal science continued to grow. Beyond academics, she was also heavily engaged in student life, making the most of every opportunity. 

Jacqueline ran with the women’s varsity cross-country team for two seasons and competed with the equestrian team in the open division.

“I would not have joined cross country if it were not for head coach, Joy Galloway-Jones, who recruited me at a club fair. Without her guidance, I would not be the athlete I am today,” she said.  Jacqueline also showed sheep during College Royal for two years and was an active member of several clubs, including Dal AC Theatre Society, DalOUTT and the Equine club—holding leadership roles including vice president and barn supervisor.

She performed in the 2024 production of The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon and served as social media coordinator on Trueman House council. 

Beyond campus, Jacqueline volunteered at Central Nova Animal Hospital and worked as a student at Meadowbrook Stables in Stewiacke. She has also earned a certificate in animal welfare.

“Jacqueline showed a lot of promise and a will to achieve her dream, she just needed the confidence to understand she could achieve it,” said former professor Dr. Janine Gray. “During my time working with her as an instructor for lectures and labs, but also as an academic advisor, Jacqueline’s confidence grew. She is enthusiastic and hardworking, always wanting to achieve more. I enjoyed teaching her and watching her grow as a student and a person,” she added.

As for her future, Jacqueline is excited to explore new opportunities in conservation and animal health.

“I would like to thank my mom as well as my friends and professors at the AC for all the support and encouragement over the years. I would not be where I am today without any of you.”