Meet the Purdue ANSC Student Services Team: Anna Ripke

Anna Ripke is an academic advisor on the Purdue Animal Sciences Department’s Student Services Team.

Anna is from Lafayette, Indiana, and she received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Concordia University St. Paul in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Anna has been in the department for over 2.5 years.

“As an academic advisor, we are here to be your guide throughout college – classes you may take, jobs/internships, life chats. We are sort of like your personal cheerleader,” said Anna.

Anna’s advising philosophy is student-centered.

“All students come with a story and this plays into academics. I try to be someone that is a safe space that students are able to be authentically them,” Anna explained. “As college is more than just academics, it’s about finding yourself, amazing opportunities and lifelong relationships.”

According to Anna, the animal sciences department was a good fit for her.

“After learning more about animal sciences and the students that are in the department, I was ecstatic to work here,” Anna said. “All the opportunities that are given to the students are hard to beat. Also, I love that I can just see animals on a random Tuesday.”

Anna mentioned that she likes the department’s sense of community.

“The people in the department are amazing. There is always someone to talk with when needed,” Anna said. “I also love all the random events that are happening within the building.”

Apart from being an academic advisor, Anna is one of the co-advisors of the Animal Sciences Ambassadors. She also led a study abroad trip to Ireland in March 2024.

Anna shared some advice for students.

“Don’t be afraid to try things that are out of your comfort zone,” Anna said. “You never know what new thing might end up being what you are passionate about that may lead you to a career in the future!”

Anna’s hobbies include reading and cake decorating. She also enjoys taking her dog, Caly, on walks throughout campus on Saturday mornings.

According to Anna, her favorite restaurant near campus is En Lai Chinese Kitchen.

Anna’s bucket list trip is to travel to Austria. According to her, she is a “Sound of Music” superfan, so she would love to go there.

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