Lily Rand’s lifelong love for animals has grown into a clear and purposeful path toward veterinary medicine. A Biomedical Sciences Pre-Vet major from West Des Moines, Iowa, Rand came to MSSU knowing she wanted to devote her life to caring for animals—and her experiences in the Biology & Environmental Health department have only reinforced this vision.
“I knew from a very early age that I wanted to spend my life working with animals and doing everything I could to help them,” said Rand. “Upon my first visit to MSSU, I entered Reynolds Hall and was in awe of the amazing animals on display. I remember meeting with Dr. Lemmons and feeling confident in my decision after hearing all the ways the department could help me prepare for vet school.”
From that day forward, Rand immersed herself in hands-on learning opportunities offered by the herpetology lab, where her role and skillset have evolved exponentially.
“I began my time in the lab with a rodent colony and 12 baby corn snakes in my care,” she said. “Now, I’m taking care of 9 adult ball pythons, all 76 newly-hatched snakes, the Pancake tortoise and Spider tortoise ambassador groups, as well as heading up the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) Turtle Rehabilitation Program. These roles were slowly added as my comfort with the animals and time management skills developed. All the turtles and tortoises that I have cared for will forever be in my heart!”
Through her leadership in the ARC rehabilitation projects, she encountered the field’s gaps in knowledge of reptile care firsthand.
“The moment I started working on the rehabilitation projects within the lab was a big indication that I was on the correct path,” said Rand. “It was truly eye opening to see how little information on reptile care was known. It gave me a chance to really test my knowledge and creativity to come up with treatment plans, and I quickly realized this is exactly what I want to do for the rest of my life!”
Working closely with animals every day, Rand’s time at MSSU has equipped her well for a successful career in veterinary medicine.
“I have learned so many technical skills working in the lab, from basic animal handling, medication administration, and wound care,” she said. “I hope to be able to take these with me into a veterinary career, as there is little formal training on how to care for reptiles.”
Her advanced, early training in the herpetology lab prepares her to make an impact with a unique skillset many students from other universities will not have as they continue their education. In addition to this work, Rand has demonstrated strong character and dedication to service across campus. She has held positions as treasurer, vice president, and now president of the Wildlife Society, helping guide the organization while fostering collaboration among peers in all three roles. As a Wilcoxon Scholar and two-time research grant recipient, she has also contributed to multiple research projects, including studies on snake medications, turtle rehabilitation, and snapping turtle jaw morphology.
Among her many accomplishments, Rand is most proud of her work with the ARC Turtle Rehabilitation Program.
“I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world,” she said. “I love learning about each species and seeing what they can teach me. I would tell any upcoming student, regardless of major, that it is so important to try new things with an open mind. I never thought I would work with reptiles, but now I can’t imagine a life without them.”
After graduation, Rand will pursue her doctorate in veterinary medicine at Colorado State University as a member of the class of 2030.
“I hope to take my love for research and reptiles into all parts of my future,” she said. “I would love to continue to advocate for exotic care inside of my schooling and throughout my career.”
Reflecting on her journey, Rand credits much of her success to the support system she found at Missouri Southern.
“I was a long way from home,” she said. “Without all the amazing people that I have met during my time here, I would have never been able to become the person I am today. I am so grateful for all the professors and students that have supported me through the ups and downs.”
Through her dedication, leadership, and commitment to advancing animal care, Lily Rand embodies what it means to be among MSSU’s best and brightest. When she graduates this Saturday, the world will gain a future veterinarian destined to make an impact in the field.
