Student Spotlight - Gwen Davis

Mar 31, 2026 10:00 AM

Bobcat Bulletin Student Spotlight highlights students who are successful inside and outside the classroom. This edition of Bobcat Bulletin features Gwen Davis.

Hometown: Ellerslie, Md.

Major: Health Science major with a focus in Veterinary Medicine

Why did you choose to attend Frostburg State University?

I chose Frostburg State because I wanted to attend a smaller university. It has allowed me to have a more personal relationship with my professors, and I feel more comfortable asking questions in smaller class sizes. Frostburg’s location is also very close to my house. This has allowed me to stay home with my family and my dogs.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in?

I am a member of the Alpha Sigma Tau sorority, the Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity, the College Panhellenic Counci, and the President's Leadership Circle. On top of all of this, I also work as a veterinary assistant at the Western Maryland Animal Hospital.

What is your favorite memory as a student?

My favorite memory at Frostburg was participating in the Storybook Holiday event on Main Street. I was an "Elf in Training" and served breakfast to families to get them excited for the eventful day ahead.

Which faculty and/or staff member has influenced you as a student?

My orientation advisor, Amy Shimko ‘94/M’20. I met her on my very first day at Frostburg in fall 2022. She has been a constant in my journey here at Frostburg, helping me create my 8-semester plan and telling me about the newest events happening on campus. Additionally, Amy instructed me on editing my resume and helped me prepare for my interview for the President's Leadership Circle. Miss Amy is also the faculty advisor for Alpha Sigma Tau. Whenever I wanted to get involved on campus, I saw that she was their advisor, so I knew they were a great group of girls!

What advice would you give to a student currently studying your major?

In my opinion, most students majoring in Health Science already have a post-graduate plan. My advice is to remember why you chose this major and your respective field. I also highly recommend finding fellow students and creating a study group. It is a string of very difficult classes, and it is going to be very tough at times. It definitely helps to have some classmates at your side.

Tell us about a class or activity at FSU that has had a surprising effect on your life.

I loved the SLOOP Institute for Excellence in Leadership retreat. I attended the retreat in 2025 and again in 2026. I initially went because I wanted to get out of my shell a little bit and grow as a leader. On this retreat, I met alumni, and I got to bond with fellow student leaders. I will say, though, the highlight of this experience was meeting Dr. Joseph Lambert ‘75/D’25. I had the opportunity to enjoy lunch at his table, and I heard about his family and his career in the CIA. He also spoke on the panel for the weekend. When asked for his advice on being a leader, he said a quote that stuck with me. “Give credit when things go right. Take credit when things go wrong.”

What is a cause dear to your heart?

The Not One More Vet (NOMV) movement. It is the leading advocate of veterinary mental health. This program gives resources and support for members of the veterinary community who are facing compassion fatigue and burnout.

What do you do for fun?

If I am not hanging out with my sorority sisters, fraternity brothers or my wonderful boyfriend, I am spending time with my two Shih Tzus, Little Bart and Mr. Cho. They love going to the Ellerslie Community Park because we can go on the tennis court and let them off the leash since it is fenced in.