Madison, a first-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, grew up knowing she wanted to work with horses and become and equine surgeon.
However, during her first year of vet school, she joined several clubs such as the Equine Practitioner Club, the Zoo, Exotics, and Wildlife club, and others to find out more about the different facets of large animal medicine!
Madison is eager to keep an open mind and she continues to learn about the variety of opportunities within veterinary medicine.
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!
Natalia, a senior allied health major and VMBS ambassador, shared what a day in her life as a VMBS ambassador looks like!
Natalia’s day began with working on assignments at the VMBS front desk, as she greeted visitors. She then left to meet up with a friend at Evans Library to study and ended her day by working out.
In her third year as an ambassador, Natalia has enjoyed making friends with other ambassadors, giving tours of the college, and connecting with potential students!
Anna, a first-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, didn’t take a traditional path to veterinary school.
Prior to beginning her DVM program at the VMBS, Anna moved to Texas for a research opportunity in the Rio Grande Valley. She studied road ecology, specifically the movement of ocelots and bobcats around highways.
While completing her research, Anna spent her free time interning at a local zoo, helping with wildlife rehabilitation and caring for sick zoo animals. She also volunteered with Sea Turtle Inc. and a bird banding project.
All of these hands-on experiences led Anna to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine in Texas!
Niya, a first-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, was nervous to take a gap year. However, the experience she gained during this period has equipped her to become a better veterinarian!
Niya spent her gap year working for a medical device company, Enova Illumination, where she learned the importance of ergonomic medical equipment and how it contributes to a healthier lifestyle as a veterinarian.
During her gap year, Niya increased her professional skills and learned how to speak confidently in front of large audiences, all skills that have aided her as she has begun her career in veterinary medicine.
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.”
Katie, a third-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, reflects on the unique opportunities that externships provide for traveling and experiencing differences in medicine across the states!
Katie participated in two externships in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Denver, Colorado. Traveling between the two locations allowed Katie to visit 5 National Parks and 3 State Parks in a short 7 days!
In addition to the scenic views, Katie was able to network with veterinarians and learn about regional differences that impact animal health. She also got to further develop her clinical skills and practice effective communication with clients.
Grace, a second-year veterinary student, has found a passion for equine dentistry through her involvement with the Equine Practitioner club.
During an immersive three-day workshop, Grace learned about the tools and technique needed to float horses’ teeth. Horses can’t naturally file down their teeth, so floating, a specialized dental procedure, helps smooth down sharp and uneven edges.
“This training didn’t just fill my mind with information; it ignited a passion for helping horses in my community,” Grace said.
Following the training, Grace has partnered with a local stable to help float horses’ teeth and put these skills into action during an externship!
Seth, a first-year veterinary student, has enjoyed the start of his academic journey at the VMBS! He has met peers in his courses that share the same passion and love for veterinary medicine, and he is eager for what the future holds.
“Each day brings something new, engaging lectures, hands-on labs, and moments that remind me why I chose this path,” Seth said. “I’m excited to take in every experience, build lifelong friendships, and grow into the veterinarian I aspire to be.”
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.”
