Tyler Wood

Degree: Animal and Poultry Sciences with a minor in Leadership
Hometown: Williamsburg, Virginia

After graduation:
I am attending U.S. Army Flight School at Ft. Novosel Alabama for the National Guard. After completing flight school, I plan to continue working in veterinary medicine as my civilian career.

I was a member of:
the Virginia Tech Fly Fishing Club and the Corps of Cadets.

I also enjoy: 
fly fishing, going to the gym, reading, and hiking/camping.

Undergraduate research I have participated in: 
I worked in a lab during my junior year studying the SMAD-2 Gene and its role on equine muscle recovery.

My biggest achievement is:
getting into US Army Flight School.

My favorite fun fact:
I learned in Genomics with Dr. Biase that Chief the Bull was used in the dairy industry in the 80s prolifically due to his high estimated breeding value. In reality, he had a rare genetic mutation causing still birth that has now cost the dairy industry over 30 billion dollars.

My favorite VT memory: 
was when I traveled to South Korea as a member of VT's Army ROTC and got to interact with their culture.

Some music that defines my time at Virginia Tech: 
Just Breathe by Pearl Jam and For Whom the Bell Tolls by Metallica

The thing I am most excited for in the future is:
to fly for the state of Virginia and assist fellow Virginians during future crisis.

My advice to incoming freshman is:
Take every opportunity regardless of if you think it relates to your degree. You never know where you’ll find a passion for something!

Photo courtesy of Tyler Wood

Photo courtesy of Tyler Wood

Corps of Cadets member Tyler Wood standing in military uniform in front of a helicopter. Undergraduate Tyler Wood posing with members of the South Korean military and a Virginia Tech flag. Undergraduate Corps of Cadets member Tyler Wood in his official picture. Undergraduate Virginia Tech student sitting on a rock while on a hiking trail.

By: Kiera Porter, School of Animal Sciences Communications Intern