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