Veterinary Assistant
Lauren is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Zoology at North Carolina State University, with plans to graduate in December 2026. Driven by a lifelong passion for animal care, she aims to continue her education in veterinary technology to become a Registered Veterinary Technician and a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, ultimately combining animal medicine with wildlife conservation.
Her dedication to animal welfare began early, growing up under the guidance of her mother, Dr. Kelly Harper, veterinarian and founder of Tuscan Ridge Animal Hospital. Surrounded by animals from a young age, Lauren frequently helped foster and raise a diverse array of rescues brought home by her mother—including everything from puppies and kittens to baby squirrels, rabbits, turtles, and lizards. These formative experiences deeply inspired her commitment to helping animals of all kinds.
Outside of her veterinary pursuits, Lauren loves hiking in the mountains, drawing, and spending time with family and friends. At home, she stays busy spoiling her two beloved cats, Casper and Toodles, and caring for her bearded dragon, Chadwick.