Earlier this summer, Zoetis held its annual Educational Alliance Program in Chicago. Zoetis is a global animal health company that works to understand and address the challenges faced by those who raise and care for animals. Present at the conference were Zoetis student representatives from nearly every vet school in the country who train to serve as ambassadors for the company and for their respective schools.
The class of 2020 representative, Chelsea Nowlin, attended and joined the representatives for the classes of 2019 and 2018, Kelly Schwaner and Andrea Musarra, as the liaisons between Zoetis and Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. The conference emphasized leadership and networking, the development of public speaking skills, and team building exercises. In addition, it consisted of speakers in various areas of expertise from Zoetis technical services to building knowledge about Zoetis’ products. The students also gained exposure to career alternatives and received resources for debt management through a seminar given by members of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
In the evenings, the students were free to explore the city, take part in a boat cruise along the Chicago River, and were even given a private tour of the Shedd Aquarium Veterinary Hospital by Dr. Bill Van Bonn, an alumnus of MSU College of Veterinary Medicine! Throughout the training, Zoetis’ commitment to veterinarians and investment in veterinary students became apparent as the representatives were made aware of scholarships and internships available for vet students through Zoetis. Students also were made aware of Vetvance, a free online resource that supports veterinary students by supplementing their curriculum with topics that may not be covered in classes. Students are encouraged to register and explore Vetvance modules pertaining to business skills, financial literacy, personal wellness, and professional development, as well as other topics.
In the spring of 2018, Zoetis will be hiring a student representative from the class of 2021. The main responsibilities will be coordinating a meeting or event each semester, collaborating with the other representatives on ideas, communicating Zoetis’ opportunities, and answering questions about the company. Any incoming students who are interested in becoming involved with the largest global animal health company are encouraged to apply!