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Caleb Rykaczewski

Caleb Rykaczewski Head Shot Caleb Rykaczewski 

Mentor, OH
Animal Sciences - Animal Biosciences
Department of Animal Sciences 

 

2020 Distinguished Senior Award Celebration Program (.pdf)

2020 Distinguished Senior Award Recipient Showcase Poster (.pdf) 

When asked what he viewed to be his most valuable learning experience at Ohio State, Caleb Rykaczewski named the personal growth and development he experienced as he transitioned from living at home during high school, to living in OSU housing, then to living on his own. He attributes this growth to the people who provided a sense of family and community while in Columbus. He was grateful to have a group of friends he has been able to rely upon and mentors who have supported him as he has grown to become his best self.

Through an internship with Dr. Donn Griffith at Animal Medical and Emergency Hospital in Worthington, Ohio, Caleb not only acquired career skills and practical work experience, he also gained professional mentors and close personal friends. Another result of his internship was an employment opportunity, and he remained with the clinic until Dr. Griffith retired in October 2019.

While an undergraduate at Ohio State, Caleb has received the following academic recognition and honors: Dean’s List | American Society of Animal Science Scholar | Durrell Memorial Scholarship | Gamma Sigma Delta Scholarship | Johnson Award for Animal Sciences | Romophos Sophomore Honorary.

Stating that his greatest sense of accomplishment as an undergraduate has stemmed from helping someone to learn something new or finish a long-term project, Caleb has appreciated the opportunity to serve as a teaching assistant. He has also found it rewarding to have facilitated the Cristo Rey High School Science Club, where he has been able to share his love of science with future budding scientists, and reflect on all the opportunities that exist in the fields of science and technology.

After graduation, Caleb plans to continue his education by pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in physiology and endocrinology of reproduction. This would enable him to continue his studies in developing on-animal sensors, technology that would contribute to the future of farming, precision livestock, and expand our current understanding of reproductive biology. He also has an interest in conservation research to develop reproductive technologies to preserve endangered species. Caleb has a passion for educating and hopes to one day work for an institution like Ohio State as a professor and researcher.

Caleb found it challenging to identify a single mentor, so he has named two educators in the Department of Animal Sciences who have aided him in his success. He wishes to acknowledge Ms. Mariette Benage and Dr. Alvaro Garcia Guerra with his deepest appreciation for everything that they have done for him to support his academic and personal development. Caleb has valued Dr. Garcia Guerra’s support of his research activities as well as his generous advice and encouragement, which Caleb views as central to his successes in coursework and personal development. Caleb was inspired by Ms. Benage’s hard work and dedication during his interactions with her as a student and service as a peer leader, and deeply values her genuine willingness to always make time for students.

Caleb Rykaczewski - Press Release