What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

After completing my Bachelor of Science degree in Ontario, I was ready for a change in scenery to complete my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree and I thought that Prince Edward Island would be the perfect place. I was attracted to the beauty of the Island and the small class sizes at the Atlantic Veterinary College.

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and faculty members?

My classmates are so supportive of one another, and the professors are always available to help. Not only are there academic resources available, but there is also a dedicated wellness team to provide mental health support specifically for veterinary medicine students! The faculty really understands how demanding the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program is, and they truly want to see you succeed. It feels like you have a huge team rooting for you to help make your dreams come true.

"If a tight knit community, support, and opportunity for extracurricular activities is what you’re looking for, then UPEI’S DVM program is right for you. You can make meaningful connections here, and get a high-quality education—all while making life-long friendships and memories."

What kinds of opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?

While the rest of the world was in lockdown, life on Prince Edward Island seemed to safely continue with a few modifications. I’m grateful that the quality of my education wasn’t severely impacted by the pandemic. There are an endless number of ways to become involved in what interests you on and off campus. You can really tailor your experience and get a lot of hands-on experience here especially when you join clubs and committees at AVC.

What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

The community support that is present here is unlike any other. You can take a step anywhere on the Island and you’re surrounded by beautiful and calming scenery. It is helpful when school gets overwhelming, and you know that you are never more than 15 minutes away from the water to take some time for yourself. There are events and festivals year-round, and even though PEI is the smallest province in Canada, I think it has the biggest heart.

What would you tell a prospective student considering UPEI’s DVM program?

If a tight knit community, support, and opportunity for extracurricular activities is what you’re looking for, then UPEI’S DVM program is right for you. You can make meaningful connections here, and get a high-quality education—all while making life-long friendships and memories. 

What are your general plans after graduation?

I'm primarily interested in small animal medicine, especially emergency and critical care. This interest sparked after working in different ICUs and seeing the fast-paced nature and complexity of patient cases. I am passionate about the human-animal bond, and I am staying open-minded to what other areas may spark my interest as I continue my journey towards completing my DVM.