Jessica, a fourth-year student, was born in Champaign, Ill., and grew up in Wesley Chapel, Fla. Jessica is going to practice small animal medicine in Bloomington, Ill. She is passionate about orthopedics, animal welfare, and educating others. She hopes to eventually transition to a position where she can teach and mentor future veterinary students or technicians.

Akasha is a first-year student from Chicago, Ill., who hopes to focus on community education and serving underprivileged communities. She has been working as a veterinary assistant at an emergency practice and plans to continue honing her ER skills while exploring other fields by interning at Lincoln Park Zoo and applying for master’s on public health degree program.

Brianna is a second-year student from Dayton, Ohio, who is interested in oncology, feline medicine, and research. She wants to pursue an internship and residency after graduation, specializing in oncology. She hopes to continue research after veterinary school and also give back to the community by working with shelters on free spay/neuter and vaccine clinics.