I quit working at a small animal hospital, which turned out to be the best decision, as it led me to livestock production and my long-term career.
Kassidy Parkhill · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Kassidy
Kassidy Parkhill currently serves as Manager of the Veterinary Medicine Farm at the University of Illinois in Urbana, where she oversees the daily care of research animals ranging from cattle and sheep to horses and swine, while also directing broader farm operations such as grounds maintenance and hay production. Her path into veterinary medicine began humbly, as a kennel assistant and later a veterinary assistant, before she transitioned into the University of Illinois animal science program. From there, she worked her way up through an internship on the research farms, a student caretaker position, and a full-time role as a general animal caretaker, all while pursuing her education. While working full-time on the farm, Parkhill completed her master's degree at the University of Illinois, an accomplishment that laid the groundwork for her promotion into farm management. In this role, she has taken on responsibility not only for the wellbeing of the animals in her care but also for the staff who support the farm's day-to-day functions. More recently, she has expanded into teaching within the university's master's program, a step that reflects her growing interest in shifting toward administrative and educational responsibilities as her career continues to evolve. Her contributions have been recognized through her selection as one of the Influential Women representing Urbana, Illinois, in the 2026 edition of Influential Women magazine. Parkhill's professional growth has been shaped significantly by mentors such as Dr. Justin Brown and Dr. Jim Lowe, who supported her through her education and early career and helped position her for long-term success. She points to her own determination as the driving force behind her achievements, having built her career at the University of Illinois without prior connections in the field. Guided by the values of determination, consistency, and honesty, she remains committed to showing up fully each day and staying open about where she still has room to grow. Outside of her professional life, she gives back to her community as an annual participant in charity runs supporting St. Jude.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kassidy
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the mentors who have supported me and helped open doors throughout my career. At the same time, I know that none of it would have come together without my own determination. I moved to the University of Illinois without knowing anyone or having any existing connections, and I made the decision early on that I was going to establish myself in this field no matter what it took.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The most valuable lesson I've learned is that success isn't about having every answer or knowing everything from the start. It's about knowing how to ask thoughtful questions and understanding who the right people are to ask. That approach shows genuine interest in learning and growth, which matters far more than having all the answers upfront.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice would be to find a way to get your foot in the door, even if that means starting in a lower-level position. Don't be afraid to ask questions or admit when you don't know something. I've found that the willingness to ask good questions and seek guidance from the right people is far more important than arriving with all the answers already in hand.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
My age is both the greatest challenge and the greatest advantage I face in my role. Because I'm young, some people underestimate me and view me as inexperienced, and while I acknowledge I still have much to learn, I also bring a great deal of versatile, hands-on experience to the table. That same youth has opened doors, too, as mentors and colleagues who are invested in my growth see real opportunity in helping me build a long-term career here at the University of Illinois.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Determination, consistency, and honesty are the values that guide me most. Determination means setting my mind on where I want to go and finding the path to get there. Consistency means showing up fully every day and giving my best effort to my work. Honesty means being willing to admit when I don't know something or when I've fallen short, and recognizing that asking for help in areas where I need to grow is part of doing the job well.
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