Cheektowaga Senior Excels in Animal Science Program

Cheektowaga Central School District senior Micha Portolesi is thriving in the Animal Science program at the Harkness Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center, with a love of animals driving his interest in his studies.

“I joined Animal Science because it gave me the opportunity to learn more about specialized skills in the animal field, which has been a lifetime interest of mine,” Micha said.

Micha’s instructor, Laura Karlnoski, described Micha as an active member of the school community, praising him as a leader at the center’s SkillsUSA chapter.

“Micha is a hard-working, conscientious student who always strives to do his best,” she said. “He has a solid understanding of course material and a unique ability to apply this knowledge in hands-on situations.”

Looking ahead, Micha plans to continue to build his knowledge of animals after high school, with hopes of studying veterinary medicine.

“The animal science program has provided me with the fundamentals I will need for the animal field and college,” Micha said. “It has also given me opportunities to further express my passion for working with animals and gain experience I can bring to other areas of the workforce.”