Hometown: Brownsville, Oregon
Undergraduate Degree: Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (University of Washington)
Area of Interest: Cardiology, Small Animal Medicine, Emergency Care
Riley Mayer grew up in rural Oregon and made the leap from small town to big city, earning a degree in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology as an undergrad at the University of Washington.
Now at WSU College of Veterinary Medicine, Riley is pursuing a career in small animal medicine, with interests in internal medicine, cardiology, and emergency care.
“The biggest impacts have been made by the people here who are so passionate about teaching and helping us learn,” he said. “There are some absolute stars—doctors, technicians, assistants, and staff—who have taught me so much, and I am so grateful to them!”
Riley balances rigorous studies with a vibrant life outside the classroom, enjoying knitting, crocheting, sewing, cooking, baking, and ceramics, and even helps lead the WSU ceramics club for undergraduates. Riley is also deeply involved in the LGBTQ+ community, organizing and participating in events across WSU and the Palouse.
On campus, Riley loves the ceramics room in the art building, a place to relax and be creative, and the greenhouse atop Abelson Hall.
At home, Riley cares for Paya, an Aussie/Lab/golden mix, two black cats, Bug and Raisin, and a few shrimp and snails.
Riley’s journey to veterinary medicine began as a child, inspired by a local vet tech, and led them through pre-med studies before realizing helping both people and animals was their true calling. After graduation, Riley plans a small animal rotating internship, followed by residency and board certification.
Fun Fact: Riley’s favorite animal is the nudibranch, also known as a sea slug. “Someone please help me find a nudibranch, it is my greatest desire in life.”