In the world of pre-veterinarian work, Bermuda may have found a future leader.

Jennifer Cabral, 18, has been chosen Saltus Grammar's top student.

"I was really surprised when I found out that I had been chosen,'' she says.

"It's an exciting honour.'' Jennifer considers herself "well suited for school''.

She has entered the Saltus' Senior Graduate Year programme this year.

She says her family has always played a strong role in her school life.

"They always say if you're going to do something, do it with a hundred percent,'' Jennifer notes.

"I have always had high standards. And I hate to disappoint anyone.'' Jennifer explains that "motivation is the big factor when it comes to school''.

She says she believes many people today just do not care, especially when it comes to school and studying.

Outside of school she has been a peer tutor to other pupils and deputy head girl at her previous school. And for two straight summers she worked at the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo where she developed more of an appreciation for animals and the environment.

However, at athletic activities she has not been as successful.

"I've tried to play sports rather unsuccessfully,'' Jennifer admits.

But it is clear that one of her strong suits is her sense of humour.

Jennifer says she believes that humour is necessary in life.

"You have to have a sense of humour so that you are not overwhelmed by pressure,'' she says.

In autumn Jennifer will be attending the University of Tampa to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-veterinarian work.

She chose this field because of her love for animals.

"So many things about our planet are dying,'' she notes. "People take advantage of the environment. We need to preserve, learn and respect the preciousness of our planet.'' For role models Jennifer says that there are so many, including her mother and some people she works with.

"There are so many people that you can admire,'' she adds. "It's not one person who totally contributes everything.'' While her time at Saltus was brief, Jennifer says: "The teachers are very supportive. Students are really friendly.'' Jennifer says she is also looking forward to university.

"I am really looking forward to it but it's really intimidating,'' she admits. "I'm prepared to meet new people and have new experiences.'' Talking with her one can easily see why Jennifer has a passion for the environment and the animals which live within it.

Jennifer Cabral