MOUNT OLIVE — In Beautancus, North Carolina, farming is more than an occupation. It is a way of life, one that shaped Davis Byrd long before he submitted a veterinary school application.
Raised on his family’s farm in rural Wayne County, Byrd grew up surrounded by cows, horses, pigs, and chickens. He learned early in life that healthy animals are essential not only to agriculture, but to the families who depend on them. This fall, that lifelong connection to animals and agriculture will carry the University of Mount Olive graduate to North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
Byrd, who graduated from UMO in May with a degree in Veterinary Bioscience and a minor in Chemistry, has spent years building toward this moment. “I have always loved animals and have a heart for them, especially large animals,” Byrd said. “Being raised on a farm is what truly shaped my interest in veterinary medicine.”
A graduate of Wayne Christian School in Goldsboro, Byrd chose the University of Mount Olive because it allowed him to remain close to home while gaining the specialized education needed to pursue veterinary medicine. “I chose UMO because of how close it is to home and because of the great things I had heard about the animal science program,” he said.
That choice proved significant. At UMO, Byrd developed practical skills through the University’s hands-on learning environment, particularly through work on the student farm. “Some of the most impactful experiences I have had have been at UMO’s student farm,” Byrd explained. “I have had the opportunity to work hands on with a variety of animals, developing practical skills and growing in knowledge, patience, and critical thinking.”
For Byrd, who describes himself as someone who thrives through practical application, the University’s experiential approach reinforced his academic growth and confirmed he was on the right path.
Mentorship also became a cornerstone of his college experience. Byrd credits veterinarians Dr. Harrison Dudley, Dr. Mark Sasser, Dr. Owen Martin, and UMO faculty member Dr. Will Farmer with helping sharpen both his academic and professional direction. “Their mentorship has given me a model to strive for,” Byrd said. “They have encouraged me to work hard and pursue excellence.”
Though Byrd’s acceptance to NC State marks a major accomplishment, the process was not without challenges. The uncertainty of veterinary school admissions tested his patience and faith. “The anxiety of waiting periods was tough at times, but I have learned to trust that the Lord will place me exactly where I am supposed to be,” Byrd said.
Known by friends as dependable, focused, and well-rounded, Byrd balanced academics, extracurricular involvement, and personal discipline throughout his time at UMO. His efforts earned him a 3.5 GPA while preparing him for the demands of one of the nation’s top veterinary programs. Still, Byrd’s future goals remain closely tied to his roots. “As a vet, I want to pour back into my community,” he said. “Being from a rural area, there is a great need for veterinarians, especially those who specialize in large animals.”
He hopes to one day establish a private practice serving Duplin County and surrounding agricultural communities, providing accessible care to livestock producers and rural families. “I want to be someone who provides compassionate, high-quality care while supporting the farming communities that are so important to our region,” Byrd said.
From the barns of Beautancus to one of the nation’s premier veterinary schools, Byrd’s next chapter reflects a commitment not only to personal success, but to serving the agricultural backbone of eastern North Carolina.