Conner is a first-year student from Bartlett, Ill. He enjoys learning how diverse the veterinary field is and hopes to one day use his knowledge to help animals in need and relieve the worries of their owners.

Amanda is a first-year student from the small town of Dwight, Ill. She is interested in small animal practice with a focus in neurology.

Erica is a first-year student from the city of Chicago. She received her bachelor’s degree in animal science from North Carolina A & T State University. Her career interests include public health, outreach, and research with a primary focus on minority communities.

Hailey is a first-year student from Channahon, Ill. She is interested in small animal general practice and shelter medicine. She hopes to work toward improving animal welfare in the clinic and shelter settings.

Kelly is a first-year student from Plainfield, Ill., who enjoys all aspects of veterinary medicine. She is very compassionate about helping all species of animals and has a special interest in small animal oncology.

Victoria, a first-year student, was raised in New Jersey and moved to Chicago at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to work at Loyola University Medical Center. She wants to be the best doctor she can be, and hopes to own a mixed animal practice where she gives her community information about affordable care and preventive medicine.

Melanie is a first-year student from the southside of Chicago who has worked as an assistant at Animal Hospital at the Crossing in Champaign, Ill., for four years. She is interested in small animal, zoological, and zoo companion animal medicine. Upon graduation, Melanie plans to provide veterinary care in the Hispanic community.

Ambrielle is a first-year student from Chicago who is interested in small animal medicine and veterinary epidemiology. After graduation, she plans to use her knowledge to protect the health of animals and people by preventing widespread illness and disease outbreaks.

Diana is a first-year student from Chicago, Ill. She is dedicated to diversifying veterinary medicine by staying true to her Hispanic roots. She looks forward to helping animals in the future as a shelter veterinarian or general practitioner.