Pioneer PROfiles - Jalen Smith

student works with a microscope
Alfred State has helped Jalen examine his options and diagnose his future.

At a glance

“You build a sense of community with the people around you, being in the dorms brings people together in a way that you wouldn't expect. You meet lifelong friends.”

Jalen Smith

Big Blue Ox graphic

Jalen Smith (Harlem, NY) has been able to combine two of his passions into an education path at Alfred State. He has blended classes in veterinary and radiologic technology in his individual studies degree.

Jalen's Pioneer PROfile video

“I came here for veterinary technology then I realized I wanted to do both veterinary technology and radiologic technology and the only way for me to combine that would be to switch over to individual studies.”

Jalen has always enjoyed being around animals and Alfred State’s third ranked Vet Tech program piqued his interest. 

“I've been taking care of random animals my entire life so I might as well get paid for doing something that I'm already doing, I like anatomy a lot and radiologic technology allows me to see more than what the eye can.”

His professors have added to his experience. “My interaction with all my professors has been great. They are all extremely helpful and very friendly. They are good at what they do.”

Jalen appreciates the support and guidance he has received. “The school has resources. They can help guide you to get to where you want to be.”

Coming from a big city, Jalen has enjoyed his surroundings and building friendships on campus. “You build a sense of community with the people around you, being in the dorms brings people together in a way that you wouldn't expect. You meet lifelong friends.”

“You meet people from all over here. People that grew up on farms compared to me that grew up around trains and tall buildings and we come together and become friends.”

Individual studies has allowed Jalen to combine two passions. He hopes to specialize in magnetic imaging x-rays of animals.

Alfred State has helped Jalen examine his options and diagnose his future.