Katie Hoch has lived in six different states, but WSU Pullman is home.
“WSU has connected me to so many amazing people who have helped me develop my communication, radiography, and medical skills. I am so lucky to be a part of such a supportive and fun class. I have created so many connections that will be lifelong resources and positive relationships,” she said.
Katie is a northern Virginia native but moved to Spokane for high school before earning her undergraduate degree in animal science from WSU.
Now in her fourth year of veterinary school, Katie plans to work with small animals in either a general practice or an emergency clinic soon enough. She particularly enjoys surgery, imaging, and emergency medicine.
In her “biased” opinion, it’s the best career there is.
“I get to wake up every morning and help people and their pets,” she said. “I enjoy working up cases and seeing the human-animal bond first-hand. People who love animals are the best people to work around.”
Katie credits her grit and determination to taekwondo and karate, which she practiced with world champions six days a week growing up, and it’s crossed over to her studies.
“It feels like a different life now, but it taught me discipline, focus, and confidence which I carry with me today,” she said.
Back at home, Katie has one pet: Lenard, a 3-year-old cat.
She is a big fan of sand and indoor volleyball, the Pullman taco truck, and the Moscow Farmers Market.