I grew up on a small farm in Texas and spent much of my childhood outdoors with my family, which naturally fostered a strong connection to animals and the environment. As part of my undergraduate degree here in the UK, I studied abroad in Costa Rica and South Africa with a focus on One Health and conservation practices. These experiences showed me how veterinary medicine can improve the lives of both animals and people while protecting environmental and human health.

What made you apply for the EMS Bootcamp and how did you find the experience?

I applied for the EMS Bootcamp because I wanted additional hands-on experience with routine farm animal procedures in a supportive, structured training environment. I found the experience extremely valuable, particularly for building confidence with procedures such as blood sampling, disbudding and dehorning, and pregnancy diagnosis.

The smaller group setting allowed for more one-on-one guidance, which made a huge difference. The clinicians were incredibly kind, approachable, and knowledgeable, and I still hold them in very high regard. I often stop to chat with them whenever I see them at graduate congresses.

How did you find the transition from student to graduate vet surgeon?

The transition was challenging for several reasons. Before accepting a job, I struggled with the decision of whether to stay in the UK or return to the US to work. The connections I made through the IVC EMS Bootcamp were invaluable and led to an introduction to an IVC practice that ultimately offered me a position. That experience opened doors and played a key role in helping me secure a mixed-animal role in the UK after graduation.

Once I started working, adjusting to the responsibility of independent decision-making took time, and I am still learning to trust myself. Overall, it has been a challenging but very rewarding journey, made far more enjoyable by the incredible support within my practice.

What parts of your experience with the Graduate Academy have been the most valuable?

he CPD provided through the Graduate Academy has been incredibly valuable. The sessions are well tailored to the realities of our workload at this stage of our careers and give us protected time to practice without the added pressure of time constraints or client expectations. Having the opportunity to refine surgical skills on cadavers has been particularly beneficial. Being able to connect with other new graduates has been just as important and helps normalize shared challenges and creates a really strong sense of support within the program.

How has having a mentor impacted your confidence and growth?

Having a mentor has really boosted my confidence and growth. Knowing that I always have support available, along with someone to talk through cases and ideas with, has been incredibly reassuring. It has been especially valuable during the transition from student to graduate vet surgeon, and the mentorship has been exactly what I was looking for.