Hope, a fourth-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, attended the biennial Texas Veterinary Medical Association’s Advocacy Lab and Capitol Visitation Day.
During the two-day event, Hope joined fellow professional students and VMBS faculty at the Texas State Capitol in Austin to meet with lawmakers and discuss policies related to the veterinary industry.
Karenne, a second-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, is spending her summer recharing her passions — both in an out of the classroom.
Over winter break, Karenne visited Big Bend National Park, and began completing her goal of visiting all the national parks within the U.S. This summer, she is eager to visit Yellowstone National Park and check it off her list!
Karenne is also participating in the rural veterinary externship. With most of her prior experience in small animal medicine, she is excited to broaden her horizons and deepen her passion for veterinary medicine.
Sarah, a third-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, earned her Aggie gold!
Since Sarah didn’t attend Texas A&M for her undergraduate degree, one of the traditions she was most looking forward to was earning her Aggie ring.
After completing two years of veterinary school, she met the 65 hours required for professional students and was able to celebrate ring day with fellow DVM students!
Annabelle, a second-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, has found small but meaningful ways to manage stress during vet school.
Each day, Annabelle spends time unwinding with her dogs, Eloise and Gus, on walks or playing outside. Studying with friends has also brightened her days.
These small moments have helped Annabelle relax and recharge as she has begun her veterinary school journey.
Sarina, a fourth-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, is hitting the textbooks and the gym!
With a passion for both veterinary medicine and powerlifting, Sarina has made fitness a priority during her time in vet school. This spring, she achieved her goal of competing in a powerlifting competition!
Claire, a third-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, gained experience in zoological veterinary medicine and animal outreach during her time as an animal ambassador at the Dallas Zoo!
Claire assisted veterinarians with procedures including radiographic imaging, acupuncture, laser therapy, and more.
She also worked with zoologists to travel across the Dallas-Fort Worth area to present interactive presentations on animals, conservation initiatives, and environmental awareness.
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.
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.
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.
