Dr. Molly H.

Dr. Hallsten has always had a deep connection to animals, particularly Arabian horses. Her journey to veterinary medicine began with her involvement in the Women's Varsity Rowing Team during high school, which she continued at the University of California, Berkeley, competing in the NCAA Division 1 program. At UC Berkeley, Dr. Hallsten graduated with a BA in biology and was actively involved in research investigating the role of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in corneal epithelial infections. 

Her academic excellence and diverse experiences led to her acceptance into the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Besides acting as a student representative for the CVMA Board of Governors, Dr. Hallsten was a member of the Equine Medicine Club (EMC) and the Student Veterinary Emergency Response Team (sVERT). 

Dr. Hallsten’s passion for mentoring stems from her own experiences as a student-athlete and the camaraderie she found among her peers in vet school. She understands the challenges and barriers that many students face when applying to veterinary programs and is committed to making the process more approachable and manageable. Her genuine interest in students' diverse passions and experiences allows her to connect with them on a personal level, fostering well-rounded guidance to help individuals pursue their interests alongside their veterinary aspirations.

As a counselor, Dr. Hallsten excels in guiding students through the application process. Her experience in editing essays and tutoring writing throughout her undergraduate years, combined with her role in editing vet school applications, equips her with the skills to help students craft compelling documents. She encourages students to highlight their experiences and strengths, ensuring their applications stand out. Her enthusiasm for mentorship and team building drives her commitment to helping future veterinarians navigate the application process with confidence and excitement.