Emma Wallace never envisioned herself pursuing a master’s degree. After earning her Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida in just three years, Emma planned to enroll in veterinary school before deciding that the University of Florida’s online master’s in Shelter Medicine was the best next step for her before pursuing veterinary school. This decision led her down a new path filled with rigorous coursework and personal growth, culminating in the achievement of another significant milestone – an M.S. in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a Concentration in Shelter Medicine. “Walking across the UF graduation stage again, and for the last time, was an indescribable experience,” Emma said.
While pursuing her master’s degree, Emma gained valuable hands-on experience working as a lab assistant at the UF Veterinary SACS dermatology laboratory. “I was hired for this position my second year at UF and spent the next two and a half years dedicated to this job,” she said. This role allowed her to develop both clinical and laboratory skills, working on multiple clinical trials and learning techniques such as cell culture, RNA extraction, and genomic data analysis.
The flexibility of the online master’s program allowed Emma to balance her academic responsibilities with a demanding work schedule. “I could work over 30 hours a week and keep up with my coursework,” she said. The relationships she built with her peers and professors, regardless of the online format, also enriched her overall learning experience.
Her capstone project for the program, a literature review on preventing the relinquishment of animals to shelters, was a testament to her passion for understanding the socioeconomic factors that influence pet ownership. “I chose this topic because I was interested in how socioeconomic factors influenced an individual’s ability to maintain ownership of their pet,” she said. This interest led her to work closely with Program Director Dr. Terry Spencer to expand her research over the following two semesters. Her dedication paid off when she presented her findings regarding the prevention of relinquishment to animal shelters. Her project investigated reasons why owners relinquish pets to animal shelters, then presented recommendations for resources to help combat this issue.
Emma’s research did not stay within the confines of the university. Her work was selected to be highlighted at the Best Friends National Conference in Orlando, Fla. “I was lucky enough to have my research poster about my capstone project be selected to be presented,” she said. The conference provided her with a wealth of knowledge and the opportunity to network with peers across the country, further enhancing her experience in the field.
Emma credits her time in the Shelter Medicine program and her lab research experience with preparing her for the next step in her career. “I honestly believe that without my time in the Shelter Medicine program and experience in lab research at UF, I would not have been accepted into veterinary school,” she said. Now in her first year at St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine, Emma feels well-prepared to tackle the challenges ahead.
Looking to the future, Emma is excited to bring her passion for shelter medicine to veterinary school. While she has not selected a specific field within veterinary medicine, she is eager to apply the skills and knowledge she gained at UF to her future studies. She advises other students who are interested in UF’s online Shelter Medicine program to put in the work to achieve their academic dreams. “It is a lot of hard work,” she said. “You will have setbacks, but as long as you remember why you are passionate about the path you want to pursue, work hard, and never give up; you will be able to accomplish your goals.”
Emma’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of knowledge. As she embarks on the next chapter of her career, she carries with her the lessons learned at UF, ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of veterinary medicine.
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The UF Veterinary Shelter Medicine online program offers a Master of Science in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a Concentration in Shelter Medicine, an online graduate certificate in shelter medicine, and continuing education courses. The program allows students to interact with the content in an asynchronous, online-delivery format on their schedules while encouraging students to reflect on prior experiences in shelter medicine. Students learn best practices and broaden career opportunities in this rapidly growing field where there is a high demand for well-trained professionals to address the health and welfare issues unique to animal shelters. Explore programs and apply easily online.
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