First official college visit in the books

Have I mentioned that my daughter is amazing and responsible and very much in charge of her future?! She doesn't know that it's unusual for a 13-year-old to research universities and to think about everything from financial aid to the merits of particular academic programs, rather than contemplating only school colors, or mascots, or how well the football team has historically been (though she could tell you those things as well, because her research is thorough).

For a while she has had her heart set on becoming a equine vet, and she has been looking into a variety of schools, in the U.S. and abroad, that may be able to help her accomplish her goals. One of the schools she has been intrigued by is Massey University, here in New Zealand. So, when she found out we would be passing through the town where the university is located, she planned a visit. Completely on her own, she contacted the school, found out who to talk to, and set up a meeting. She also came up with a list of questions and articulately asked them and made sure they were answered. At the end of the meeting, the lady asked her if she would be applying next year or the following year and was rather shocked to find out that Ruth is, in fact, only 13. I am so incredibly proud of this girl and know her future will be bright, no matter what she ultimately decides to study or where she chooses to go to school! (And, I seriously can't believe I have a child that is old enough to start looking at colleges!)

The Vet Med building at Massey University