Tag: Student Experience

Growing up in a small town, Whitney’s passion for animal care started early on her family’s farm. Although she initially pursued a degree in Speech and Hearing Science as an undergraduate at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, she found the Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Sciences (CVS) upon her graduation. This experience ultimately led her to discover and enroll in the MVS program, where she found a unique way to merge her interests and career aspirations.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Master of Veterinary Science (MVS) program offers a distinctive one-year master’s degree designed to prepare students for diverse career paths in the animal science field.

“The flexibility of the MVS program was a huge draw for me,” Whitney explains. The program’s structure allows students to complete their degree in just one year while gaining valuable skills applicable to various fields, from veterinary school to marketing and business roles within the animal science industry. Whitney appreciates how the program doesn’t confine students to traditional paths but instead provides a platform to explore a broad range of opportunities.

After expressing interest in being more involved within the college and program, she found herself accepting the position as a student ambassador for the MVS program. As a student ambassador, Whitney is deeply involved in efforts to enhance the program and student experience. One of her key responsibilities includes assisting with marketing initiatives and curriculum development. She has worked on projects such as conducting surveys to gather feedback from prospective students. “The goal is to better understand what students are looking for and make the MVS program as accessible and beneficial as possible,” she says.

Outside of her academic commitments, Whitney takes full advantage of life on the Urbana-Champaign campus. She especially enjoys walking along Lincoln Avenue during the fall and staying active by challenging herself with fitness goals. When it’s time to unwind, she turns to cooking and watching her favorite movies.

When asked what advice she would offer to prospective MVS students, Whitney emphasizes the program’s versatility. “It’s not just for those planning to go to veterinary school. This program is ideal for anyone passionate about animal science, whether you’re looking into business, pharmaceuticals, or even marketing within the field,” she says. “Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Take advantage of every opportunity to network and grow, because this program is designed to support a wide range of goals.”

Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone. Take advantage of every opportunity to network and grow, because this program is designed to support a wide range of goals.”

Whitney’s journey highlights the many possibilities the MVS program offers. Her experiences demonstrate how students from diverse backgrounds and interests can find their footing in this program and launch fulfilling careers in animal science. Whether your passion lies in hands-on veterinary work or behind-the-scenes roles in marketing and research, the MVS program provides the foundation to make it happen.

To learn more about being an MVS Student Ambassador, read Jenna Nist’s story. 

If you’re interested in the MVS program or want to talk with an MVS Student Ambassador, reach out here.

By Sarah Reed

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Jenna, originally from Canton, Ohio recently graduated from John Carroll University in Cleveland, earning her undergraduate degree in biology in May 2024. She decided to step out of her comfort zone for her graduate studies, applying exclusively to larger schools, which ultimately led her to the University of Illinois and the Master of Veterinary Science (MVS) program.

What drew Jenna to Illinois was the MVS program’s in-person option, the one-year duration, and its comprehensive curriculum, offering a broad overview of veterinary medicine. She wanted a concise program that would prepare her for vet school while allowing her to explore different areas of the field.

The in-person program has exceeded Jenna’s expectations. With a cohort of just 10 in-person students and over 100 online peers, the small class size fosters close connections with professors. “They do try to go above and beyond for us,” she says. Faculty members value the cohort’s commitment to attending in person, frequently going the extra mile by introducing innovative courses and professional development workshops.

Jenna appreciates the opportunity to engage in meaningful, face-to-face interactions, something she missed during the pandemic. “I learned from COVID that online learning wasn’t for me,” she admits. “I knew I needed an in-person program to thrive.”

Jenna became a student ambassador unexpectedly during a casual conversation with a classmate and Dr. Jim Lowe, the Associate Dean of Online Programs and Extension. “We had compliments and critiques, and he listened to those,” she says. “It was really nice to see that someone was listening to our feedback and actively making changes.” Her honest feedback about the program led to her selection for the role. As an ambassador, Jenna promotes and supports the MVS program through marketing initiatives, provides constructive feedback for improvement, and shares insights with prospective students.

As an ambassador, Jenna promotes and supports the MVS program through marketing initiatives, provides constructive feedback for improvement, and shares insights with prospective students.

“We’re here to give honest answers, not just what someone might want to hear,” Jenna explains. “We know students are making an investment, and it’s important they find the right fit.” She’s excited to share her experiences, whether answering questions about the program or giving tips on campus life, housing, and dining.

Living in Sherman Hall, Jenna enjoys the convenience of being on campus and regularly explores. Her favorite place to study is the veterinary medicine library, a quiet spot with beautiful views where she feels surrounded by like-minded individuals. Outside of academics, Jenna stays active by playing pickleball and practicing at local parks. She’s an avid reader and frequents the ARC gym, balancing her academic responsibilities with her personal interests.

Jenna plans to take a year off after completing the MVS program to gain more experience before applying to veterinary school. Her goal is to attend vet school and explore her interests in equine medicine, though she remains open to other specialties.

If you’re interested in the MVS program or want to talk with an MVS Student Ambassador, reach out here.

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Shabria grew up in Norfolk, Virgnia, a small and relatively low-income area. There were many stray cats and dogs running around that she would take home, much to her mother and grandma’s dismay. “It’s always been natural for me to see an animal outside and talk to it like Dr. Doolittle,” she jokes.  

While much of her family had a natural inclination towards the arts, she always felt a deep connection with animals. Her love for animals at a young age set her down a path in veterinary medicine to develop the skills and experiences necessary to turn that passion into a profession. 

The journey was far from easy. “It was trial by fire, for sure,” she says about the process of applying to veterinary school multiple times. This year marked her fifth attempt, and with each rejection came a deeper understanding of herself and her dreams. “The hardest part of the journey was letting it go,” she says. “I needed to keep getting rejected until I could figure out how to be okay if I didn’t become a veterinarian.”  

Despite advisors and instructors in her field suggesting she pursue alternative career paths such as human medicine, Shabria remained steadfast. She contemplated her options but ultimately decided that her journey wasn’t over yet. “Having the perseverance to say, ‘This doesn’t feel finished yet,’ was crucial.” 

A turning point for her was when she discovered the Certificate in Veterinary Science (CVS) degree program, a certificate program within the Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine specifically designed for aspiring veterinary students. “It was like a spark,” she says about joining the program. “I just needed to be in the right environment.” The CVS program offered her a chance to learn in a supportive atmosphere that felt like a perfect fit. It was here that she experienced a profound shift in her approach to education and personal growth.  

The CVS program offered her a chance to learn in a supportive atmosphere that felt like a perfect fit. It was here that she experienced a profound shift in her approach to education and personal growth.

Prior to joining the CVS program, Shabria found it difficult to separate her worth from getting accepted into veterinary school, having been rejected by multiple schools throughout the years. “Once I finally let that tie go, I could really embrace how I learned, and I learned that through the CVS program.” Instead of viewing rejections as a reflection of her self-worth and capabilities, she reframed it as an opportunity to build skills that would make her a stronger applicant. “Looking back, I think if I had been accepted into vet school not knowing what I do now, I wouldn’t have succeeded.” 

For Shabria, one of the most significant aspects of the CVS program was the faculty. “I had never met professors who truly cared in an intentional way,” she says. She remembers a challenging moment in class when she and her peers felt overwhelmed after a difficult exam. Instead of allowing the students to spiral into self-doubt, the faculty stepped in to mediate and reassure students that they can improve and will do it together. “I had never had a professor say, ‘Calm down, let’s do this together’,” she says. This encouragement helped her realize that her weaknesses were not impossible obstacles but opportunities for growth. 

After years of perseverance and toying with the idea of a different career path, she finally received acceptance into veterinary school. All her hard work — the various jobs, experiences, and education — had paid off.  This fall, Shabria will be attending veterinary school at Western University in Pomona, California. Moving from the East Coast to the West Coast, she is eager to gain more exposure in her field and determined to approach her studies with greater control over her learning and well-being.  

Shabria’s journey to veterinary school has been one of perseverance, growth, and dedication to her passion for animals. As she steps into this new chapter, she does so with the confidence that she is ready for whatever challenges lie ahead.

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Learn more about the Certificate in Veterinary Science here and see what other students are saying about the CVS program.

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From a young age, Megan’s love for animals was undeniable. Whether riding horses or caring for family pets, she always knew that her future lay in working with animals. “I’ve always known since I was little that I loved animals, and I just had to work with them,” Megan says. This passion carried her through undergrad, where she couldn’t picture herself pursuing any other career path.

When Megan first applied to veterinary school, she faced one of the biggest obstacles many students face when achieving their veterinary school dreams: a competitive GPA. “I didn’t have a GPA I was the proudest of,” she admits. But instead of being discouraged, she took immediate action, “I was like, ‘A lot of people don’t get in their first try, how can I improve for the next?’” This forward-thinking led her to enroll in the Master of Veterinary Science (MVS) degree program, a step in her journey that allowed her to enhance her academic credentials and deepen her knowledge in the field she loved.

The program offered her the flexibility she needed. She took it online and at her own pace, ensuring she could complete the program by the next application season. “I really liked that I could sit down with advisors and pick what kind of classes I wanted,” she says, appreciating the tailored approach of the program that allowed her to focus on large animal science. Megan also fondly remembers instructors from the MVS program who took a personal interest in her academic progress and the status of her veterinary school applications. Through her hard work and determination and the support of her new academic community, Megan saw a notable improvement in her grades, maintaining a high GPA in the MVS program.

During this time, she also travelled from upstate New York to Texas where she worked for Tom McCutcheon Reining Horses, a big name in the industry. “We had an outstanding roster of 12 stallions, including some of the best in the reining and AQHA industries,” she says. Her experience at Tom McCutcheon honed many of the skills she would need in veterinary school and her career, such as giving shots, monitoring horses’ health, and most notably, foaling out mares and working with the foals.

“I really liked that I could sit down with advisors and pick what kind of classes I wanted,” she says, appreciating the tailored approach of the program that allowed her to focus on large animal science.

Despite her enriching experience in the field, the challenge of gaining additional veterinary experience was far from over. “For me, getting vet experience was hard, especially with COVID,” she says. She noted how difficult it can be as an unemployed student finding hours at a clinic, but she persevered and eventually landed a position as a veterinary assistant in a small animal clinic. The doctors employed there played a significant role in expanding her knowledge of her field. Ultimately, her hands-on experience allowed Megan to apply her MVS course content to real-world situations and vice versa.

Megan equates her experiences during the Master of Veterinary Science program with a different outcome in her second application to veterinary school, and this fall, Megan will be attending veterinary school at Iowa State University. While she is excited to start a career in veterinary medicine, she also looks forward to building up her clientele. Whether it’s the regulars who frequent the animal clinic she works at, or professionals in her field, Megan shares that “you get really close to the same people and their pets, and they kind of become your family.”

For future veterinary school applicants, Megan recommends documenting experiences and hours as you get them. “Everything you do counts in some way,” she says, but she also emphasizes that it’s not solely the hands-on experiences veterinary schools are searching for in their applicants. “They want to know you’re a person beyond wanting to be in vet med—your hobbies, things you can do outside of your career, having work-life balance.”

Megan’s journey to veterinary school is a testament to perseverance and passion. Her dedication to the field, despite the challenges along the way, will undoubtedly serve her well as she embarks on this new chapter at Iowa State University. 

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Learn more about the Master of Veterinary Science degree here and see what other students are saying about the MVS program.

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August 9, 2024 – Julia Bellefontaine has dreamt of pursuing a career in veterinary medicine since she was a young girl. Her journey to veterinary school has included hands-on animal care experience, academic commitment, and valuable professional skills development. She has worked with a variety of animals, including feral cats, horses, and shelter animals. After working as a kennel attendant, she eventually progressed to a role as a receptionist at an animal clinic.  

It was in her position at the animal clinic that she was significantly able to hone her communication skills by working closely with clients and veterinary professionals. “That was the job where I started getting more used to people and figuring out how to talk to them,” she says. “[Veterinary Medicine] is not just about working with animals—it’s hugely people-related.” 

Julia’s dedication to diversifying her experiences played a crucial role in enhancing her veterinary school application. One standout experience that strengthened her application was her role as a teaching assistant during her undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois. By advocating for and securing this position, she became the first undergraduate TA for her professor, showcasing her initiative and leadership skills. 

The application process for veterinary school is known for its rigor and competitiveness. “You have to list everything you’ve done,” Julia says, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive application. “I listed everything, even pet- sitting or pet ownership, anytime I interacted with a person in an animal clinic. I put those jobs in there because I feel it’s important, and I think the one thing they’re looking for is a well-rounded person.” 

Julia decided to take a gap year before applying to veterinary school to gain more experience and secure stronger letters of recommendation. During this time, she participated in the Certificate of Veterinary Science program at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.  “It was really helpful—they did case studies with us which is really beneficial when going into vet school because it’s such a huge workload,” she says about the program. “They did a really good job with applying each case to what you would do in real life.”  

The Certificate in Veterinary Science (CVS) is a program designed to help deepen the understanding of veterinary concepts and prepare students for veterinary school through advanced courses and mentorship. When she applied for veterinary school the following year, Julia secured a more personalized letter of recommendation from a mentor within the program.  

She connected much of what she did in the CVS program to her job as a veterinarian receptionist, where she often had to read through patients’ histories and diagnostics.  It was in this role, complemented by the problem-solving skills she was developing in the CVS program, that she was gradually introduced to the medical facet of veterinary work.

Julia applied to six veterinary schools and secured an interview at Illinois. Throughout her interview process, she was able to showcase her skillset acquired from her past and current experiences. Despite initially being waitlisted from Illinois, that did not stop her from building upon her existing skillset. She applied as a wildlife intern at a rehabilitation center to work with new species and learn more about one of her interests, zoo medicine.  

Julia was later pulled off the waitlist and is attending veterinary school at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in the Fall of 2024. She looks most forward to the hands-on learning opportunities available that set Illinois apart from other veterinary schools with clinical rotations in her first year, unlike many other schools that begin in the third or fourth year. She knows from her experience in the CVS program that integrating classwork with real-world learning is the best way for her to learn. 

Looking ahead, Julia is enthusiastic about managing patient care, particularly emergency care, and tackling the unique challenges of veterinary medicine. “I think what’s interesting about vet med is you’re challenged. You can’t talk to your patients and your patients can’t talk to you,” she says. “It’s like putting puzzle pieces together when you’re diagnosing them.”  

Her advice to aspiring veterinary students is to avoid comparison and focus on their unique journey, “Every school is looking for something different in an applicant. Focus on what you’re doing and make it individualistic.”  

Julia has fostered her education and many applicable skills at the University of Illinois, having graduated in 2023 and participating in the CVS program. Her journey reflects a blend of passion, dedication, and initiative, making her a standout applicant and future Class of 2028 student at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.  

Read more here about Julia’s experience as a student in the Certificate of Veterinary Science program.

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