The World Is Yours
As my time here in Washington comes to a close, I reflect on all of my great experiences as an AVMA government relations extern. I was able to meet with staff from many of the senators and congressmen from the great state of Florida about the Veterinary Services Investment Act and the Federal Loan Repayment Program. That task garnered a large part of my time here, but my efforts were somewhat quelled by not only a week long congressional recess but the LARGEST SNOWFALL IN THE HISTORY OF WASHINGTON DC!
The harsh weather shut down the whole city, including the Federal Government, for an entire week. But the shut down gave me an opportunity to learn about the work of many of the veterinarians here in Washington. There are a wide variety of jobs for veterinarians here with agencies such as the USDA, FDA, and with the AVMA just to name a few.
As many Americans with college degrees or multiple degrees struggle to find work in this economy, the wealth of jobs available to veterinarians continues to grow. This should not only comfort all of us in veterinary medicine, but it really shows how much of an honor and privilege it is to serve as a veterinarian. The hard work that we put into our education can seem burdensome at times. I know many students can share stories about the endless number of tests, the late nights, the tears and the frustrations of vet school. I am here to tell you that the job security and financial security you will gain are just two of the many reasons that make the experience all worth it.
For those who have yet to decide their career path or those who look for a change after spending time working in one part of veterinary medicine, the vast opportunities available to you should give you solace. Many students started vet school with a clear idea about what kind of veterinarian they would be. But I would hope that all students explore all that veterinary medicine offers and keep not only their options but their minds open.
Van H. Brass II
University of Florida
Class of 2011