Maris' academic journey began at Carleton College, a rigorous liberal arts school, where she majored in both biology and studio art. Her undergraduate experience was marked by a strong commitment to extracurricular activities, including being a two-sport student-athlete and representing DIII athletics as a member of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC).
Before attending veterinary school, Maris gained hands-on experience in various settings. She worked at a small animal clinic for six years, interned at a zoo, and was a counselor at a horseback riding camp. During her senior year, Maris participated in a competitive Research Experience for Undergrads (REU) program at Friday Harbor Laboratories, where she published her first manuscript. After graduation, she began veterinary school at the University of Illinois, her first-choice professional school.
At UIUC, Maris was the Conservation Chair of the school's Wildlife Medical Clinic and was elected secretary of the Non-Traditional Species Club. She was also a UIUC's Sustainability Committee member and has worked as a microbiology student in the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, participating in a swine influenza project. Maris’ research focuses on infectious animal diseases that have fallen victim to the illegal wildlife trade. She received a research assistantship position, designing qPCR assays to detect pathogens in penguins, fish, and reptiles.
Maris's passion for assisting others in the veterinary school application process stems from her own experience of feeling under-guided when applying to veterinary school. She is committed to providing a helping hand to prospective veterinary school students, sharing her knowledge to make their application journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
As a consultant, Maris brings a unique perspective to her work, leveraging her extensive experience with various writing styles to provide an in-depth understanding of the requirements for admission to veterinary school. Her greatest strengths are in writing, having published several manuscripts, and spending a lot of time writing and reviewing other people's writing.
In her counseling sessions, Maris approaches each applicant by understanding all elements of their profile, such as hometown, college clubs, animal experiences, and research, to determine what will make their application stand out. In her third year as an Inspira counselor, Maris has successfully guided many students to veterinary school and continues to teach students various molecular and diagnostic techniques every day in the diagnostic lab.
Maris's ultimate goal is to pursue a career in wildlife epidemiology and conservation, leveraging her blend of academic excellence, research experience, and passion for helping animals.