This month, we’re excited to highlight Aggie ACHIEVE student Gabby Salinas, who has been making a meaningful impact during her internship at the Aggieland Humane Society.
During her time at the shelter, Gabby has taken on a wide range of responsibilities that keep daily operations running smoothly. From feeding and watering cats to cleaning litter boxes, washing dishes, and doing laundry, her work directly supports the health and comfort of the animals. She has even taken on more advanced tasks like drawing vaccinations for new intakes, assisting with workflow processes, taking adoption photos, and naming newly arrived pets—adding a personal touch to each animal’s journey.
What stands out most is the joy she finds in building connections. Whether it is helping animals adjust to shelter life or forming friendships with staff, this experience has been about more than just tasks—it’s about creating a positive environment for both animals and people.
Through this internship, Gabby has developed valuable technical and professional skills. While some tasks felt challenging at first, guidance from staff and consistent practice helped build confidence and competence over time. Equally important has been her growth in communication and teamwork. Gabby shared that she has become more comfortable asking for help rather than trying to do everything independently. This shift has helped her become a stronger and more collaborative team member.
Looking ahead, Gabby has big goals: opening her own wildlife rescue center. Her current experience has given her insight into the medical and operational side of animal care.
Beyond animal care, Gabby is also pursuing a creative passion: developing an independent 2D animated film set in a post-apocalyptic world, featuring an autistic protagonist and their opossum sidekick. She sees a clear connection between her work and storytelling, noting that many animal species are underrepresented in media—and she is determined to change that.
Perhaps the most powerful takeaway from this experience is personal growth. Gabby shared that she has become more confident and less reserved, growing more comfortable interacting with others each day.
Her advice to fellow Aggie ACHIEVE students starting an internship? “Be on time. It’s probably going to be worth it when you get your paycheck.”
At Aggie ACHIEVE, we are proud to see students gaining skills, confidence, and clarity about their futures—one experience at a time.
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