Kassidy Parkill, a student in the Master of Veterinary Science (MVS) program at the University of Illinois, has had a unique journey into the field of animal health. Originally from Peoria, Illinois, she didn’t grow up with farm experience but found her passion for veterinary medicine early on.
“I started working in a vet clinic when I was 15, and that really grew my love for veterinary science and medicine,” Kassidy shared. After earning her undergraduate degree in animal sciences at Illinois, she searched for a way to transition her education into a career. Encouragement from her current boss at the Veterinary Medicine Research Farm led her to the MVS program, which she saw as the perfect bridge to her professional goals.
Kassidy is currently completing the in-person portion of the program, which she finds invaluable. “Honestly, the best part is just being able to meet in person, have those conversations, and get live feedback from professors, advisors, and peers,” she said. This semester, she is particularly enjoying courses focused on livestock management and biosecurity that are important for farm management.
Her involvement on campus has largely been through employment, including roles at the Small Animal Clinic and multiple university livestock farms. Outside of school, she’s built community in the Champaign-Urbana area through her church and enjoys exploring local coffee shops and nature spots.
One of the most rewarding aspects of her academic journey has been applying what she learns in the classroom to real-world situations. “Being able to work on a university farm has been the most impactful experience because I get to take what I’m learning and use it in a hands-on environment. I’m blessed to have a mentor on the farm to have those conversations with.”
Unlike many of her peers, Kassidy has never planned to apply to veterinary school. “I found out pretty early in my undergrad that I don’t want to practice medicine,” she explained. “Getting a DVM doesn’t really benefit me because I don’t want to be in a clinic treating animals—I’d rather be out on the farm.”
For her capstone project, Kassidy and her team are working on developing a master’s program for individuals looking to advance their careers in animal health. “It’s been really interesting because we’re taking our own experiences in the MVS program and looking at what other professionals and prospective students want,” she said. “It’s a challenge to balance what we’ve gained from our education with how we can create opportunities for others.”
As she nears the end of the program, Kassidy is looking forward to securing a full-time job. “Having that stability and being in a place where I can really use the skills and knowledge I’ve learned—that’s what I’m most excited about,” she said.
Her biggest motivator throughout the program has been the opportunity to learn from experts in the field. “Coming in without livestock experience and getting to learn from professionals like Dr. Lowe, who is both a businessman and a livestock expert, has been incredible.”
Her biggest motivator throughout the program has been the opportunity to learn from experts in the field. “Coming in without livestock experience and getting to learn from professionals like Dr. Lowe, who is both a businessman and a livestock expert, has been incredible.”
Kassidy’s journey highlights the diverse paths available in animal health beyond traditional veterinary school. Her hands-on experiences, mentorship, and passion for livestock management have shaped a clear direction for her future in the field.
To learn more about scholarships for the MVS degree program, visit our website or email us at ilearning@vetmed.illinois.edu for more information.
By Sarah Reed