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Despite growing up in Rupert, near the heart of Idaho dairy country, Ariana Olmos didn't set foot on a dairy farm until her freshman year at the University of Idaho. Four years later, she’s headed toward a veterinary career that will provide vital support to one of the largest industries in her home state.
Olmos credits the Chobani Scholars program for bringing her to the U of I and launching her career in the veterinary field. As a student at Minico High School, she learned about Chobani Scholars from her teacher, Jessica Stapleman. The multi-year scholarship program provides scholarship funding, staff support and mentoring for students from the Magic Valley who intend to pursue an agriculture-related degree.
“I loved the idea of a veterinary career, but I had no idea what I was getting into, and I was a little bit scared,” said Olmos, who graduates with three fellow Chobani Scholars this spring. “It was challenging, but it made me step out of my comfort zone. Being a Chobani Scholar gave me extra support and confidence. It’s helped me build my career over the past four years.”
While her U of I classes like the reproduction lab and the dairy science lab introduced her to working with large animals, her internships confirmed her career trajectory. Olmos first interned with Oak Valley Dairy in Burley, learning about reproduction, maternity and dairy management. Last summer, Olmos interned with Threemile Canyon Farms in Boardman, Oregon, conducting calf health research.
“It was an amazing experience and really solidified my interest in the dairy industry,” Olmos said of her internship at Threemile Canyon, a farm that produces 150 million pounds of food each year.
Sharon Murdock, student services manager in CALS, watched Olmos transform over her four years as a Vandal. As a senior she served as vice president of the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) club.
“Ariana came to the U of I as a shy and reserved freshman,” Murdock said. “I have seen Ariana grow her passion for her field of study and gain leadership skills in MANRRS. It has been my pleasure to watch her grow and to be able to encourage her as she as she moves forward. I really couldn’t be more proud of her.”
Olmos is headed to Des Moines, Iowa, to work as a veterinary technician for the next year before starting veterinary school in 2026.
“My main goal is to be a large animal veterinarian – there is a shortage of them in Idaho,” Olmos said. “I want to come back and help the dairy industry in Idaho and be able to give back to the community that helped me grow.”
At the University of Idaho, we’re grateful for partners like Chobani who empower students to chase their dreams. And we’re proud of our students who are committed to making a difference for our communities across Idaho.
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