I never thought I wanted to do research post-graduation. During undergrad, I participated in some volunteer research work on salamanders and I also did some research at the USDA looking at antibiotic resistance and the microbiome of turkeys. Both of these experiences gave me an appreciation for research, but that is where I assumed the phase of research would end for me. I enjoyed learning the techniques and found value in the end results and furthering scientific knowledge for not only myself but to others in the field as well. The downside for me though was the inability to interact with live animals, and to me, that was something that was just too important. My time in research also taught me that I am a person who thrives on instant gratification, and so I decided that practicing as a clinical veterinarian is where I wanted to be. But never say never…
One thing the veterinary field never ceases in is opportunities and I soon learned about clinical veterinary research. Ah—the best of both worlds! The interaction with clients and their animals and the added fulfillment of furthering veterinary knowledge and possible advancement of treatments. If you haven’t read my blogs before (welcome!), you may not know that I am an aspiring exotic animal veterinarian. I want to work with our companion animals other than the normal cat and dog. The exotics field is growing and these animals are becoming more popular in homes. The rabbit is the third most popular pet behind the dog and the cat, and there is a huge variety of exotics animals out there such as birds, snakes, lizards, ferrets, gerbils, guinea pigs, sugar gliders, and so many more. We know a great deal less about exotic animals than our cats and dogs, and while every year our knowledge improves, it could be better. I want to be a part of bettering this niche field and continue to add to the research being done.
Throughout my time at school, I continue to participate in research to improve my skills so that someday and I can organize my own project.
