Isabela Caruso, a fourth-year biology student at Penn State Schuylkill, has achieved a remarkable milestone by earning acceptance into the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.
Penn Vet, one of only two Ivy League veterinary schools in the United States, boasts a highly competitive acceptance rate of just 7%, making Caruso's achievement a testament to her dedication and perseverance.
Cory Scherer, interim chancellor of Penn State Schuylkill, commended Caruso's success, highlighting her resilience and hard work.
“Isabela’s dedication, perseverance, and passion for veterinary medicine embody the best of what Penn State Schuylkill strives to cultivate in our students,” Scherer said. “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 expressed her joy upon receiving her acceptance letter, describing the moment as emotional and validating.
“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 will begin her studies at Penn Vet in the fall of 2025. While acknowledging her nerves about the challenging path ahead, she remains determined and confident in her abilities.
“I am nervous for the next step, but I am also very excited,” Caruso 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.”
A Lifelong Passion for Veterinary Medicine
Caruso's passion for veterinary medicine began in her childhood, inspired by the book series Warriors, which ignited her interest in animal care and medicine. This passion was further solidified by 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.”
Upon completing Penn Vet’s rigorous four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program, Caruso aims to open her own private practice, where she hopes to provide affordable and accessible veterinary care.
The Impact of Penn State Schuylkill
Caruso credits Penn State Schuylkill with playing a vital role in her academic and personal growth.
“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 her biology studies with athletics, Caruso played softball throughout her college career and participated in cross country during her first year. These experiences, she said, strengthened her communication, time management, and leadership skills.
Beyond sports, Caruso took on leadership roles as vice president of the Tri-Beta honor society and a Mental Health Peer Advocate. She also contributed to the Future State and Student Initiated Fee committees, worked as a teaching assistant for molecular biology and biochemistry courses, and served as a tutor and summer mentor.
“Each activity has been a building block for my character and experiences,” Caruso said.
Research and Academic Achievement
Caruso distinguished herself academically through her commitment to research. During her second year, she worked with Professor Lee Silverberg on synthesizing heterocycles, compounds with potential medical applications. She later presented her findings at a poster conference.
In another project led by Professor Lucas Redmond, Caruso studied the effects of weather on migratory songbirds on campus. This research earned first place in the biological and health sciences category at Penn State Schuylkill’s poster conference and was later presented at a regional conference. Caruso and Dr. Redmond are now working 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 gratitude for the faculty members who supported her, including professors Brenna Traver, Lucas Redmond, Lee Silverberg, and Sarah Princiotta. She also acknowledged Darlene Young, director of the Learning Center, and her athletic trainers for their guidance and encouragement.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on her college experience, Caruso emphasized the sense of family and belonging 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.”
Caruso 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
For students following in her footsteps, Caruso offers a simple but powerful message: “Do it scared.”
“College and life can be daunting, but the best way to grow is to step outside your comfort zone,” she advised. “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.”