Where are you from? Where’s home?
I am from the great white north of Canada! I live in the amazing urban congestion that is Toronto.
Where did you go to undergrad and what degree did you earn?
I went to undergrad at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. I double majored in Biology and Physical Geography.
What made you choose RUSVM?
The accelerated program and the many opportunities given to their students was a big draw to the lovely community of RUSVM.
What has been your favorite part about living on St. Kitts?
My favourite part about St. Kitts are the friends that I have made and the many crazy adventures that we have gone on!
What advice do you have for students coming to RUSVM and St. Kitts?
DO THINGS! Take advantage of being in a different country with activities that you wouldn’t find in your hometown. Play volleyball, go swimming, do that hike people talk about, catamaran trips to Nevis, and go to semester events. Make sure you stay on top of your studies during the week so your weekends can be for exploring and having fun. Later, in upper semesters your time becomes more focused with school so use your free time to explore this lovely country of St Kitts while you have it!
After being at RUSVM 6+ semesters, what fact about yourself would your colleagues be surprised to learn?
That I used to hate trying anything that was not in my comfort bubble.
Where are you headed for your clinical studies?
Michigan State University.
What is your ultimate career goal with your DVM?
My ultimate goal as a DVM is to own multiple small animal clinics and be a mentor for up and coming veterinarians. Passing down knowledge is the cornerstone of what I want to do.
Who is your professional role model and why?
I have two professional role models, both of which were my bosses at my local clinic where I took my Dog and worked. Dr. Mike Cormier and Dr. Mark Teeger are the epitome of what I want to be as a veterinarian. They are world class in their proficiency of veterinary skills and knowledge and they back that up with incomparable compassion and care towards their patients and clients.
What has been your favorite course at RUSVM and why?
My favourite class at RUSVM has been Clinical Pathology. After working for so long in a clinic it was amazing to finally understand how veterinarians are able to deduce what might be happening in an animal from the biological concentrations of enzymes in the body.
What extra-curricular activities have you been involved in at RUSVM?
I have been a Mr. RUSVM contestant twice (VP for Green and in 4th), I have been the Treasurer of Purple Semester since 1st. I was vice president of Ross Talk for 3 semesters, and a club member in Surgery and VBMA. I played volleyball for 2 semesters. I also led the data analysis for a One Health research project.
If you could thank one person for all you have achieved so far, who would that be and why?
I would have to choose my Mum and Dad. Their constant motivation and endless support have helped me continue my drive towards being a veterinarian.
