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.
Susie, a second-year veterinary student and VMBS ambassador, and her friends participated in hands-on learning experiences during their first year of veterinary school!
Prior to veterinary school, Susie did not have lots of experience with large animals, however the labs with the veterinary school teaching herds allowed her to feel comfortable working with large animals.
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!
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!
