Meet Alexa, our junior student manager! She is currently finishing up her first year as a veterinary student here at University of Illinois. She is interested in wildlife and zoological medicine and is excited for all the new opportunities she will experience throughout veterinary school. She is looking forward to growing her own knowledge as well as guiding students during their time in the Wildlife Medical Clinic (WMC) and ensuring they have as many learning opportunities as possible.
What Led Her to Vet School?
Alexa knew she wanted to be a veterinarian from the time she could talk. She volunteered at a small animal clinic during high school and has multiple years of experience in shelter medicine and wildlife rehabilitation. She graduated from the University of Illinois in 2024 with a BS in Animal Science, with minors in Chemistry and Public Health.
WMC Experience and Summer Goals
Alexa is no stranger to the WMC, she began volunteering during her undergraduate studies in 2022. She is looking forward for her first summer as a clinic manager. Summer has always been her favorite season in the WMC, and this year she is excited to be more involved with the wide variety of adult patients we receive. With a higher case load, smaller group of students, and orphan season in full swing, there is constantly something new to learn and teach. Alexa is looking forward to the opportunities to improve and grow her knowledge of wound care, surgical procedures, and physical therapy. Having the opportunity to work in the clinic full-time over the summer will build her confidence as manager and help her to better serve as a resource when student volunteers return in the fall.
Memorable Patients Over the Years
Throughout her many years as a WMC volunteer, Alexa has really enjoyed working with all the raptors in the clinic and has a soft spot for our many orphans, especially the white-tailed deer fawns and opossums! She enjoyed working the muskrat that came into the clinic last year and looks forward to what might present in the future. We are thrilled to have Alexa on our team!
Written By: Caroline M., Class of 2026
