LEXINGTON, Ky. — Malena Hughes, a senior at the University of Kentucky majoring in animal sciences, is preparing to pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a veterinary pathologist, according to University of Kentucky News. Hughes will attend Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in fall 2026, taking advantage of Kentucky's contract program with Auburn that provides state residents in-state tuition rates.

Born and raised in Barren County, Hughes grew up on her family's cow-calf operation, which sparked her passion for veterinary medicine. Throughout high school, she attended veterinary camps at Auburn, North Carolina State, Mississippi State and Clemson universities while also participating in the UK Pre-Vet Experience Day.

Since arriving at UK, Hughes has immersed herself in the college community and hands-on research. She joined the Pre-Vet Club and Block and Bridle, holding leadership roles in both organizations. As a Chellgren Center Fellow in the Gluck Equine Hospital, Hughes studied equine tapeworms with the goal of improving diagnostic methods. She also worked at the University of Kentucky Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory as a necropsy technician, where the facility conducts more than 3,500 animal autopsies annually for veterinary clinics and state and federal agencies.

"I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't want to be a vet," Hughes said. The university's Pre-Veterinary Mentoring program proved instrumental in her preparation, offering resources for strengthening applications, practice interviews and guidance on veterinary school admissions.

Amber McNamara, D.V.M., director of the Pre-Veterinary Mentoring Program at Martin-Gatton CAFE, praised Hughes' commitment. "Malena embodies the initiative, integrity, and balance that support success as a pre-veterinary student," McNamara said. "She is committed to giving back to the veterinary community and has served as a welcoming resource for younger students exploring veterinary medicine."

Auburn's College of Veterinary Medicine has served Kentucky students for over 70 years through a partnership that currently reserves 38 seats in each 120-member veterinary class for Kentucky students. Auburn maintains strong equine programs relevant to Kentucky's renowned horse industry, making it particularly well-suited for students interested in equine medicine and pathology.