This spring, three Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine students, Renee Jones, Robert "Bob" McCarthy, and Ann Marie Picone had the opportunity to attend the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Legislative Fly-In in Washington, D.C., to advocate for vet students and the veterinary profession. They met students from fellow AVMA veterinary schools and learned about US policies regarding veterinary medicine and student debt. The three-day event brought together nearly 30 veterinary schools, including RUSVM.
In its 9th year, the annual 2017 Legislative Fly-in is hosted by the AVMA Governmental Relations Division (GRD) and the Student AVMA (SAVMA) and introduces student participants to the legislative process and educates them on high-priority legislation. Student attendees were briefed on federal legislation impacting the veterinary profession and then joined their fellow veterinary students on Capitol Hill to meet with their elected officials and advocate on behalf of the profession.
McCarthy, Immediate Past SCAVMA/SGA President and 6th semester student had the opportunity to meet with his elected officials, including one of his home state senators to discuss the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Enhancement Act (VMLRPEA) and the Higher Education Act.
"It was an incredible opportunity to be able to advocate for our students and the profession, and I highly recommend it for students in the future," said McCarthy.
