Living My Four-Year-Old Self’s Dream
Whether working to solve a herring gull botulism outbreak in England, diving alongside great white sharks in South Africa, or fending off the playful trunks of elephants eager for another sugar cane treat in Thailand, I have always been in awe of the animal-human bond. Paired with my energetic personality and love for people, veterinary medicine has always felt like a natural fit, and evolved into a lifelong dream. After years of experiences in veterinary clinics, research, and diverse animal settings, my admiration for the vital role veterinarians play in society has deepened, further committing me to this profession.
In high school, a research project led me to interview a veterinarian, but our conversation was cut short when a puppy with parvovirus needed immediate care. I admired the doctor’s calm demeanor, technical expertise, and compassion in such a high-pressure situation. In that moment, I thought, “That will be me.” Although veterinary medicine has always been my dream career, this experience confirmed that it was more than just a childhood aspiration.
Fast forward to my time at the University of Michigan where I recognized research as a powerful avenue, contributing directly to the field. Working in the Duffy Lab under the mentorship of Dr. Meghan A. Duffy, Ph.D., I gained valuable experiences and the opportunity to co-author four publications while assisting doctoral researchers on projects related to epidemiology, animal behavior, and climate change. Recognizing that veterinarians are stewards of antibiotic efficacy, I crafted an honors thesis that focused on expanding the animal-human concept and how human activities contribute to antibiotic resistance. The critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills developed seamlessly translate into clinical practice.
These skills and experiences naturally align with the diagnostic approach of veterinary medicine, where each case involves identifying the root cause and crafting a treatment plan, much like forming a hypothesis and deriving results in research. For example, while working as a veterinary technician, I encountered a case where a dog presented with lethargy, vomiting, and weight loss, symptoms that pointed to several potential causes. I observed and assisted the veterinarian as she performed diagnostics, ruling out differentials, and ultimately diagnosing Addison’s disease. She clearly communicated with empathy the diagnosis and lifelong treatment plan. Cases like this reinforced in me that beyond clinical care, I deeply value the relationships between veterinarians and clients, built on trust, shared knowledge, and a mutual commitment to the animal’s well-being. These meaningful interactions inspire me to become a trusted veterinarian who clients can rely on during their most vulnerable moments.
Through my unique clinical experiences, from general practice to equine surgery and wildlife care, I’ve had the privilege to witness the versatility of veterinary medicine, all unified by deep compassion for both clients and patients. My hands-on experience has given me the joy in sharing life-saving moments and the overwhelming sadness of final goodbyes. One of my first emergency cases involved a dog hit by a car, unresponsive upon arrival. Despite the urgency in this case, the doctor remained calm and focused. His advice that “rushing may result in life threatening mistakes” has left with me a permanent impression and valuable lesson. On the other hand, witnessing my first unanticipated euthanasia, where a Labrador Retriever's airway was obstructed by a tumor, was a moment of deep reflection. I felt a pang of guilt, pondering if more could have been done, despite knowing it was a humane decision. I have accepted that uncertainty is a constant in veterinary practice, and it’s this unpredictability that makes each day so meaningful.
My life has revolved around stepping out of my comfort zone and pushing boundaries, whether traveling to 35 countries, participating in adrenaline-fueled activities, or giving back to my community through philanthropy. I seek a program that will allow me to continue this bold mindset with freedom to ask tough questions, take calculated risks, and the ability to challenge the status quo, resulting in meaningful contributions to this field. My mentors have shared with me the value of a lifelong relationship with a university, and I plan to build a similar legacy. Practicing veterinary medicine has never been a question of "if" but "when," and I’m ready to take that next step to fulfill my lifelong dream.