Jacqueline Robidoux '23

Building a foundation for a career involving animals
UNH student Jackie Robidoux '23

Jackie Robidoux is a zoology major from Rochdale, Mass. She received a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship to conduct research under the guidance of David Needle, professor and senior veterinary pathologist at the New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Lab on the UNH campus. The topic of Jackie’s research is “Comparison of the Microbiome of Mange-Infected and Mange-Free Red Fox.”

COLSA: Why did you choose UNH?

Jackie Robidoux: As an incoming freshman, I believed UNH had a welcoming community and amazing options.

COLSA: What's your major and what makes it so interesting to you?

Jackie: I initially choose zoology as my major so I could explore different job opportunities involving animals. I didn't know if I wanted to be a veterinarian, and zoology gave me the chance to explore other fields of work while fulfilling the requirements for vet school.

COLSA: During your time at UNH, what are you most proud of?

Jackie: I'm in the Honors Program, and I am currently working on my honors thesis. I am my going to spend the fall semester studying aboard in New Zealand with the EcoQuest program.  

COLSA: What are you planning to do after graduation?

Jackie: I am still figuring that out. I am planning to go back to school to either get a master’s in a research-related field or get my histology certificate or go to vet school followed by a pathology residency.

COLSA: How is UNH preparing you to achieve your goals?

Jackie: UNH has allowed to me gain lots of experience. I am working at the New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Lab to gain lab and research experience. My research is on how different severities of sarcoptic mange effects the skin microbiome of red foxes. At the diagnostic lab, I experience the daily life of both a researcher and a pathologist — two professions that I am interesting in.

COLSA: What do you love most about UNH?

Jackie: The campus and the people.