Getting Plugged In

Katie, a freshman animal science major and VMBS ambassador, recently volunteered at Paws and Claws, a local wildlife rehabilitation shelter!

Along with other members of the Veterinarians Without Borders organization, Katie was able to syringe feed baby squirrels and opossums.

Whether big or small, Katie has been able to work with a diverse array of species, helping her gain experience for her veterinary school aspirations!

Katie smiles at the camera with a brown chicken perched on her shoulder inside a clinic
Katie holds a baby squirrel as she syringe feeds it, with trees in the background
A baby opossum lays in Katie's hand with animal kennels in the background

Costa Rica Connections

Natalie, a senior animal science major and VMBS ambassador, traveled to Costa Rica to partake in a unique veterinary mission.

Under the supervision of a local veterinarian, Natalie and 10 other pre-vet students from across the U.S. assisted in running a 3-day, no cost spay and neuter clinic for local cats and dogs. She was able to learn clinical skills and shadow surgeries, in addition to participating in labs and lectures.

Natalie also visited a cattle and water buffalo farm, took a wildlife boat tour, and explored a sloth sanctuary!

“I learned how to work as a team with people I just met and create genuine bonds,” Natalie said. “I also gained a sense of independence, as well as a broader perspective of the world of veterinary medicine and life in general.”

Natalie, veterinarians, and pre-vet students pose under an outdoor shelter area, all clothed in blue scrubs

Natalie smiles with a black, tan and white dog
People on a guided boat tour in a dense jungle river, surrounded by lush, tall trees.
Natalie smiles as she looks into a scope

Leading With Passion

Caleb, a sophomore animal science and poultry science student and VMBS ambassador, holds leadership roles that have opened countless doors for him at Texas A&M.

Caleb serves as the Executive Director of MSC Aggie Leaders of Tomorrow, where he has built lasting friendships, developed leadership skills, served the community, and helped freshmen find their place at Texas A&M.

“I always encourage new and prospective students to find something they’re truly passionate about and stick with it, rather than joining organizations or teams they feel they ‘should’ be a part of,” Caleb said. “Focusing on what genuinely excites you can lead to deeper connections and a more fulfilling experience.”

Group of students posing outside a building with colorful posters
Caleb poses with a friend at a MSC Aggie Leaders of Tomorrow event at a partner reveal party
Group of volunteers posing for a photo at Houston Food Bank.

Learning about Dairy Science

Kara, a sophomore animal science major and VMBS ambassador, visited the Texas Panhandle to study and learn about the dairy industry, giving her a solid foundation in her pursuit to begin a career in large animal medicine.

β€œI loved having the opportunity to learn under a variety of different professors from all around the U.S. who specialize in different areas of dairy herd management and medicine,” Kara said. β€œIt truly was a one-of-a-kind experience to observe such a vital industry in our day-to-day lives.”

Kara stands, giving a thumbs up, in a pen with dairy cows in the background
Kara stands with another female student in the aisle of a dairy feeding barn.
Kara holds a clipboard while taking notes from a man standing next to her by a dairy calf shed
Four A&M students stand in front of a vehicle in construction vests giving a thumbs up