Externs: Where Are They Now?
It’s amazing how life can change in just 14 months! I completed my eye-opening student externship at AVMA-GRD in March, 2009. Graduation soon followed, and I went to work at a small animal practice in San Diego, California. In January of this year, I was offered a unique position working for the Annenberg Foundation as Animal Services Manager for a new project in Los Angeles. The proposed facility would focus on public education, the human-animal bond and our relationship with the environment. Plans include a small adoption facility, along with a broad range of classes and educational programs for the community. This position requires a multitude of diverse skills along with a knowledge of veterinary clinical practice. The AVMA-GRD externship helped me build the critical skills I now need: communication, persuasive writing and in-depth knowledge of issues in the animal care community.
We are currently in the planning and public approval process for development of the Annenberg Facility. I consult with others daily about the building layout, exhibit design, public programming and outreach.
I have recently taken on an exciting project — to mobilize our veterinary and animal care community for national media attention. I submitted a video to the Oprah Winfrey Network for a talk show about the human-animal bond. This will raise social awareness of animal related issues while educating (and entertaining) the public. This is a voting competition that ends July 3rd. Please consider taking the time to watch the video and vote. Additional information can be found here.
I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to participate in the AVMA student extern experience in Washington, D.C. where I worked on some of the skills that have been so instrumental in making my transition from vet school to working professional an unbridled success. I encourage all of you to think seriously about taking advantage of this program. You don’t know what you’re missing!
- Dr. Amber Andersen, DVM