MOSCOW, Idaho – Idaho's student-athletes, Abigail Thomas and Jack Schuster, have been named the Vandal Academic Services Student-Athletes of the Month supported by P1FCU.
 
Thomas is a sophomore on the women's cross country team earning a major in animal, vet, and food sciences. The Melbourne, Australia native boasts a perfect 4.0 cumulative GPA.
 
"Abigail is well-deserving of this reward," said Thad Hathaway, Director of Student-Athlete Support Services. "She is a terrific international student-athlete who is pursuing Animal & Veterinary Science while also competing on our track and cross country teams."
 
Thomas credits Idaho for giving her many more opportunities in the veterinary field than she would have back home. "With the farms on campus, I have been able to work hands on with animals in my first year," said Thomas. "It has allowed me to better my skills during classes, instead of sourcing outside work that overloads my schedule. Being around teammates constantly helps bring out a positive vibe and we motivate each other to do well, with weekly check ins to keep each other accountable."
 
One of Thomas' favorite experiences at Idaho as a student so far has been participating in the lamb processing. The students were able to help vaccinate and tag newborn lambs in the sheep unit as part of the curriculum in AVS 110. "I really enjoyed getting to do work on the farm," said Thomas. "There are always opportunities available to keep me engaged in the class and more excited to learn about it."
 
Schuster is a fifth year on the football team earning a major in elementary education and a minor in secondary physical education. The Richland, Washington native boasts a 3.78 cumulative GPA.
 
"Graduating this spring 2024, Schuster currently works with Safe Routes to School where he helps teach kids how to ride bikes and be safe while riding," said Stacey Hyde, Academics Coordinator. "He is an all-around good athlete and good student!"
 
After graduation, Schuster plans on becoming a fifth or fourth grade teacher. "Idaho has been very valuable to me because it has helped me get a degree in elementary education," said Schuster. "My professors have been awesome and the athletic academic staff has helped me make major decisions and pushed me to be successful in school."
 
P1FCU is proud to partner with the Idaho Vandals and support the financial literacy education of our students through various programs. Learn more at p1fcu.com/govandals.
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