Schuylkill student accepted to UPenn School of Veterinary Medicine

SCHUYLKILL HAVEN, Pa. — Isabela Caruso, a fourth-year student at Penn State Schuylkill majoring in biology with a vertebrate physiology option, has been accepted into the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. As one of only two Ivy League veterinary schools in the United States, Penn Vet is highly competitive, making Caruso’s acceptance a significant achievement in her academic and professional journey.

Cory Scherer, interim chancellor of Penn State Schuylkill, praised Caruso’s achievement, saying, “Isabela’s dedication, perseverance, and passion for veterinary medicine embody the best of what Penn State Schuylkill strives to cultivate in our students. Her journey is a testament to the academic rigor, mentorship, and opportunities available on our campus, and we are incredibly proud of her success.”

Caruso described her acceptance as an emotional and validating moment, reflecting on the hard work and sacrifices that led her to this milestone.

“Getting accepted to Penn Vet was one of the most invigorating feelings I have ever had,” Caruso said. “There was happiness and relief all at once. It was more than an acceptance — it was validation for all the hard work I have done over the past three and a half years.”

Caruso, who will begin her studies in the fall of 2025, acknowledged the challenges ahead but remains excited and determined.

“I am nervous for the next step, but I am also very excited,” she said. “Penn Vet has an acceptance rate of just 7%, so no matter what nerves I may feel, that statistic reminds me that I deserve to be there. I have come this far and achieved something that once seemed impossible.”

Caruso’s passion for veterinary medicine began in childhood, inspired by the book series Warriors, which introduced her to the idea of animals and medicine. Her dream solidified through personal experiences, including the loss of her dog, Reno, to cancer.

“Animals remain a consistent source of unconditional love and purity, and they need advocates,” Caruso said. “I want to be that advocate. I want clients to rest assured that their animal is in good hands with me.”

Penn Vet’s four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program will prepare Caruso for her long-term goal of opening her own private practice, ensuring quality veterinary care is both accessible and affordable.

Penn State Schuylkill’s role in Caruso’s success

Caruso credits Penn State Schuylkill with providing the support and opportunities that helped her reach this milestone.

“I don’t know if I could have been where I am now without Penn State Schuylkill,” Caruso said. “The community here has been essential for gaining connections and opportunities. This campus has helped build my character as a well-rounded student-athlete.”

Balancing rigorous coursework with athletics, Caruso played softball throughout her college career and participated in cross country during her first year. She noted that being part of a sports team strengthened her communication, time management, and leadership skills.

Beyond athletics, Caruso actively participated in various campus organizations. She served as vice president of the Tri-Beta honor society, a Mental Health Peer Advocate with CAPS services, a member of the Future State and Student Initiated Fee committees, and a teaching assistant for molecular biology and biochemistry courses. She also worked as a tutor and summer mentor.

“Each activity has been a building block for my character and experiences,” Caruso said.

Her dedication to research further distinguished her academic career. During her second year, she worked with Professor Lee Silverberg on a project synthesizing heterocycles, compounds with potential applications in treating infectious diseases. She later presented this research at a poster conference.

Caruso’s second research project, under the mentorship of Professor Lucas Redmond, studied the effects of weather on migratory songbirds on campus. Conducted over two fall seasons, this research won first place in the biological and health sciences category at Schuylkill’s poster conference and was later presented at a regional conference. Caruso is now working with Dr. Lucas Redmond to publish their findings in a scientific journal.

“This opportunity was amazing for making connections and presenting our findings on a bigger stage,” Caruso said. “It was also valuable to observe other students’ work and receive feedback from faculty at other campuses.”

Caruso expressed deep gratitude for the faculty who supported her, including professors Brenna Traver, Lucas Redmond, Lee Silverberg and Sarah Princiotta, as well as Darlene Young, director of the Learning Center, and the athletic trainers who encouraged her along the way.

A home at Penn State Schuylkill

Reflecting on her college experience, Caruso emphasized the sense of community she found at Penn State Schuylkill.

“The families I have here have been a large part of my life for the past four years,” Caruso said. “This campus has become a home away from home.”

She initially chose Penn State Schuylkill for its affordability, strong biology program, and the opportunity to continue playing softball.

“I wouldn’t have known about this campus if Coach Darle Cresswell hadn’t recruited me,” Caruso said. “It was the perfect fit—allowing me to prepare for veterinary school while playing the sport I love.”

Advice for future students

Caruso encourages incoming students to take risks and embrace new opportunities.

“Do it scared,” she advised. “College and life can be daunting, but the best way to grow is to step outside your comfort zone. Join that club, talk to that professor, ask to do research. Pursue your goals even if you fear failure. These experiences will teach you invaluable lessons.”