My First Birthday in Veterinary School
This year was the first year I was truly on my own for my birthday.
In planning for the occasion, with two upcoming tests, I decided it was better for my, my family’s, and my husband’s schedules if we all met up in two weeks. However, that didn’t make my birthday any 
less special.
The day itself started out with sweet “happy birthday” texts from my family and husband and then in-person wishes from my classmates.
With a long day of class and studying for our anatomy test that Friday, I spent most of my day at school, but that didn’t stop my friends and me from celebrating later that night, when we all went to eat dinner at Mad Taco. While we talked about school some, we were able to get out of an academic environment and just hang 
out with each other.
These kinds of nights are my favorite because they allow us an outlet to get out of “study-mode” and get into a more relaxed and lighthearted situation. They, my friends surprised me with a birthday cake topped with candles.
After we were finished with dinner, I studied a little more and then ended my day with a couple short Facetime calls to my parents and best friend, as well as a longer one with my husband.
While it’s hard to be so far away from my parents, husband, and best friends, they showered me with love in the best ways they could.
My veterinary school friends have quickly become “my people” and are the ones who truly understand the struggles and victories, the highs and lows, and everything in between of being a veterinary student.
I’m incredibly lucky to have found them so early in school and am so thankful that they help keep me sane during this journey.
My birthday wouldn’t have been the same without all of the special people in my life!
