Juan, a first-year student from Chicago, Ill., is the first in his family to graduate from college. He is interested in small companion animal medicine but plans to explore various aspects of veterinary medicine.

Alyssa is a first-year student from Addison, Ill., with interests in small animal medicine—especially orthopedic and soft tissue surgery—and practice ownership. This summer she will work in several practices hoping to find a great mentor and future employer.