For Julia Dodson, a graduating senior from Paul VI High School in Haddonfield, an interest she first explored at the age of 5 has not only remained a big part of her life – it will also be integral in her future studies.
When the 17-year-old West Deptford teen wasn’t in the classroom, she was likely spending time with horses, and even competing as an equestrian.
“I actually got into riding because of my grandmother, and I could never bring myself to stop,” she said.
She has leased horses for many years, and pitches in to feed the horses and help with veterinarian and farrier visits – even assisting with her barn’s summer camp.
Dodson will continue to pursue her passion for horses through her collegiate studies. In the fall, she will begin studying animal science at Colorado State University on a pre-veterinary track.
“After I graduate from CSU, I plan to go to veterinary school and specialize in large animal veterinary medicine and possibly subspecialize in ophthalmology or pathology,” she said, “but only time will tell on that.”
For Dodson, who is a member of Incarnation Parish, Mantua, and attended Saint Margaret Regional School from kindergarten through the eighth grade, graduating from Paul VI and embarking on her next chapter is “very bittersweet.”
“I have honestly loved my time at Paul VI High School and will deeply miss the teachers that I have had throughout my four years here,” she said. “Paul VI has not only prepared me academically to succeed in college, but has helped form me as a person and gave me the confidence to recognize that I can accomplish anything that I put my mind to. PVI has truly given me wings to fly.”
Katy Stewart, who serves as admissions director at Paul VI, has known Dodson since her freshman year.
“Julia is an equestrian, a relatively rare talent, one that has no straightforward path or outlet at Paul VI,” said Stewart. “Julia chose to contribute to the life of our school, helping the admissions office in ways that had nothing to do with her particular interests, but that had everything to do with her generosity of spirit.”
Stewart noted that her same commitment can be seen in the classroom, and even in her practical approach to selecting classes – like taking an entrepreneurship class because she understands that veterinarians also run businesses.
Dodson has also been a “long distance mentor” to one of Stewart’s granddaughters who has special needs and recently started to ride horses.
“Julia’s in-depth instructions on where to buy gear, what to buy new, what to buy used – details that might seem trivial – have helped a child who struggles in some areas embark on a path that brings a sense of connection and accomplishment,” she said.
Stewart added that she has no doubt Dodson’s positive impact will only grow in the future.
“Julia Dodson is – in a word – rare. She is a rare combination of skill and compassion,” said Stewart. “She has enriched our Paul VI community, and her future will doubtless enrich the lives of many others – whether animals or people.”
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