Rosemarie H.
“I can continue to be available for my kids and still do something for myself…”
From Flutes to Fur: How One Unity Student is Bridging Human Psychology and Animal Behavior
For Rosemarie, a Concord, Massachusetts resident, music and psychology have long gone hand in hand. With a Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy, she spent her early career using music as a therapeutic tool for children with autism, individuals with cognitive disabilities, and geriatric patients. But when motherhood became her full-time role, she found a more flexible way to stay connected to her passion: performing with orchestras. Today, she holds two principal flute positions and has soloed with several Boston-area ensembles.
Still, another lifelong love was waiting in the wings: animals. “I have always loved animals and had been waiting most of my life to get a poodle,” she says. When the COVID-19 pandemic offered the rare opportunity to slow down, Rosemarie finally brought home her dog and quickly became fascinated by the connection between her psychology background and animal behavior. That moment sparked a major shift.
Now a Master’s student in Animal Behavior and Science at Unity Environmental University, Rosemarie is taking her knowledge of the human mind and applying it to our four-legged companions. “I am hoping to gain the knowledge I was seeking about the science behind animal behaviors and behavior modification, in addition to learning and expanding on ways to help animals, especially dogs, fit in to their families and society in a more positive and complete way,” she explains. Unity’s online program made it possible for her to pursue this passion without stepping away from family responsibilities. “It was an amazing opportunity to do something for myself while staying available for my kids.”
Rosemarie’s enthusiasm for the program is evident. She speaks highly of her instructors, especially Professor Anzalone. “He did a great job helping me understand the combination of environmental needs and the reality of business management.”
Looking ahead, Rosemarie hopes to publish research on behavioral issues and modification, educate the public about dogs’ needs, and advocate for improved welfare laws, especially for shelter animals. “I would like to work directly with individuals in helping them solve specific key issues or questions they may have about their dog’s behavior that can help strengthen their bond and understanding of each other.”
She also dreams of conservation work involving her poodle, who has a natural love for sniffing out scents. “I think there’s real potential for her to help in environmental efforts,” she says.
For Rosemarie, each new course at Unity is another step in a journey filled with curiosity, purpose, and heart. “I am so excited to absorb as much direct and/or related knowledge as possible so that I can work with this knowledge in new ways that can help people understand their dog and help dogs have a better life.”
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