Hands-on learning leads Megan Broecker to Animal Sciences

From Louisville, Kentucky, Megan Broecker did not initially come to Purdue University with a background in agriculture or the intention to study animal sciences. Now a senior in the Department of Animal Sciences, she first enrolled as a biology major on the pre-veterinary track. After taking an animal sciences course, however, she discovered a learning environment that resonated with her in a different way.

Broecker has been interested in science since elementary school, when she spent time creating science fair-style projects and exploring how things worked. That curiosity ultimately led her to pursue a degree at Purdue, a university she recognized for its strong reputation in science and agriculture.

Rather than switching majors impulsively, Broecker reflected on the direction of her studies and the types of experiences that mattered most to her. While she valued the strong scientific foundation biology provided, she found herself drawn to opportunities that allowed her to apply her knowledge in a hands-on way.

ANSC 22100: Principles of Animal Nutrition became the turning point. After taking the class, she recognized that the animal sciences major aligned more closely with her learning style and long-term goals. She then decided to transfer into the Department of Animal Sciences.

“It was the best decision I have made for my future” Broecker said.

Beyond the Classroom

Broecker joined the research lab of James Dooley, PhD, during her freshman year, where she helped establish research protocols and assisted with projects. Over time, she took ownership of the lab’s rat breeding colony, developing spreadsheets, training newer members and serving as a reliable point of contact for nearly all colony-related issues.

Her research, “Effects of Age on Rat Reproduction,” later earned a High Distinction award at the Purdue Undergraduate Research Expo in November 2025.

“I was really excited when I found out,” she said. “I started looking into what it meant, and it’s about how well you communicate your findings and their implications.”

For her, this award demonstrates an ability to communicate effectively with the public to disseminate important information — a skill she has been working to build as an undergraduate student. She will continue sharing her work this spring, presenting additional findings at the Undergraduate Research Symposium on April 14 and delivering a research talk to the Purdue Centrally Managed Animal Facilities staff on April 24.

While preparing her own research, Broecker applied her experiences beyond the lab. She served as a teaching assistant for ANSC 44000: Horse Management, assisting students as they prepared their own research projects for the Undergraduate Research Expo. One group she assisted in data collection went on to earn High Distinction recognition at the Research Expo for its project, “Correlation of White Genes with Deafness in Horses.”

Supporting students through that process was especially rewarding for her.

“I was more excited for the students I worked with than I was for myself,” she said.

Additionally, Broecker assists with horse care at the Animal Sciences Research and Education Center and supports educational outreach at Robinson’s Equine Therapy and Riding in Lafayette. She also gained hands-on experience at the swine unit through an internship at ASREC, where she worked with swine and was responsible for processing piglets, assisting in farrowing, vaccinating herds, and moving market hogs. These experiences were especially impactful as she entered Purdue without a background in agriculture, providing her with foundational, hands-on skills in animal care and production.

Outside of research and hands-on animal work, Broecker has remained involved across the department and campus. As an Animal Sciences Ambassador, she serves on the Boiler Barnyard committee for Spring Fest and the selection committee for new ambassadors, and she assists with other ambassador events. She also serves as president of the Disabled Student Union, advocating for improved accessibility and campus improvements.

Being involved in multiple areas of the Department of Animal Sciences has reinforced her sense of belonging.

“It’s like a family,” she said. “I can’t go anywhere in the department without running into someone I know.”

She has intentionally sought opportunities that strengthen her technical skills and broaden her experience in animal sciences.

Why She Does It

For Broecker, staying engaged is less about staying busy and more about staying curious. She finds the most value in applying and sharing what she learns.

“I’ve realized I learn best when I can actually see, do and teach,” she said. “If I’m not engaged, my mind is somewhere else.”

By getting involved in research, species management and teaching opportunities, she created a college experience that reflects that learning style.

Looking Ahead

Broecker plans to graduate in May 2026, and her future plans reflect the foundation she has intentionally built. She plans to pursue a master’s degree with a focus on animal reproduction and physiology.

She considers herself a lifelong learner.

“I want to keep learning,” she said. “That’s what keeps it interesting.”

These experiences helped Broecker build a Purdue education that fits her learning style and future goals.