Experiences

Submitted by Retrospective Conference Travel Grant Receipient, Helena Trevor, Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine

I attended the USAHA & AAVLD annual meeting in October 2024. This conference serves as an interface for veterinary researchers, academics, and government employees to join and share innovations and ideas pertaining to veterinary medicine. As a Saul T. Wilson scholar with the USDA-APHIS-Veterinary Services with an interest in pursuing a career in corporate veterinary medicine, I attended this conference with the goals of gaining knowledge of other careers and entities in public practice and making relevant connections. At this conference, I met and connect with several students who were also STW scholars and those who were interested in research. I attended talks on new research being done in many different facets of veterinary medicine, the most popular topic being Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. I was able to sit in on meetings between the USDA and CDC and listen to conversations about topics such as deployment of government resources to help with HPAI and the potential of a vaccine – all topics relevant to me as I have traveled to help with HPAI before when working for the government. As a result of this meeting, I was able to set up my MPH Practicum Experience which allowed me to travel to central California and facilitate the emergency response for HPAI in poultry and dairy cattle. As a result of this conference, therefore, I was able to get firsthand experience on the frontline of a disease outbreak and also to put into perspective the role of Field Veterinary Medical Officers and see how their contributions (surveillance, testing, etc) impact population health and decision making on a larger scale. I’m very grateful to SAVMA for providing me a grant to help fund my travel to this conference.

Caption This Contest

Photo Submitted by Rachael Phillips, Michigan State University

Caption by Heather Sayles, Michigan State University

"When my human said I was "earning this DVM with her..." I thought that meant I just had to cuddle with her while she studied..."

ALL for Students Event Spotlight - University of Missouri

On October 20th 2025, Tim and Terry’s Pumpkin Palooza was held as a fall community engagement event hosted by the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine with the purpose of bringing students, faculty, and staff together outside of the classroom.  Over 100 people participated in the event designed to support connection, wellness, and a strong sense of belonging within the CVM community.

Pumpkin painting served as the primary activity and encouraged participation across all class years. The shared, hands-on experience provided an accessible way for attendees to interact, collaborate, and build relationships while creating a tangible takeaway from the event.

Food was provided through a grill out, which created a central gathering point and supported meaningful interaction among students, faculty, and staff. A s’mores station later in the evening added a seasonal element and encouraged continued engagement throughout the event.

A featured highlight was the opportunity to take photos with the CVM mules, Tim and Terry, who serve as recognizable and well-loved representatives of the college. Their presence added a unique CVM tradition to the event and was especially impactful for first year students and guests, reinforcing school pride and connection to the college’s identity.

First year veterinary student, Shannon Draper commented “I had a fantastic time at the Pumpkin Palooza! I got to paint a pumpkin while socializing with peers and forming new friendships with my future colleagues. The food was good, Tim was proud of our finished pumpkins, and I had a great s’more to finish off the evening. These events make for perfect breaks from the rigors of vet school, and I’ll definitely be attending again next year!” 

Overall, Tim and Terry’s Pumpkin Palooza successfully promoted community building and student wellbeing within the College of Veterinary Medicine. The event provided an opportunity for attendees to connect across programs and class years while celebrating shared traditions that strengthen the CVM culture.

Cutest Pet

Submitted by Morgan Scanlon, Michigan State University

Cutest Pet

Submitted by Elyan Forbis, Michigan State University