AWESC Environmental Tip of the Month

The SAVMA Animal Welfare and Environmental Stewarship Committee would like to share some helpful hints regarding how to develop green habits while spending more time at home!  If you happen to live near the coast (or even if you don't!), take a study break to participate in International Coastal Cleanup Month!  Every small step brings us closer to a healthier environment, so join the ~wave~ of clean and green!

Wednesday Wisdom

As we really get into the swing of the most unique semester of veterinary school, I would like to share some words of wisdom delivered by our very own National SAVMA President, Mrs. Marie Bucko!  A helpful reminder that no matter what stage of life you are moving into, taking care of your mental and emotional wellbeing is of utmost importance:

WOW – is this really happening? Who would have thought we'd be heading into a new academic year amidst a pandemic during vet school?! Whether you are carrying out didactics or clinics – it's a new season and I hope you can take a moment to pause and soak this in. Look what you have accomplished just by being in veterinary medical school!

This semester is unlike any other and how you move through it is entirely up to YOU. Life can present us with a lot of distractions (cough…pandemic…cough), but you are the captain of YOUR vet school journey.  Meaning, do you, friend.  Sure you may find yourself questioning your study habits ("am I doing enough?" or "should I be studying like they are?"), you may play that comparison game or struggle to find a school-life balance-it happens to so many of us.  But I'm here to tell you – YOU ARE DOING THIS RIGHT. Read that again. Stay focused on what works for you even if you have to discover that through trial and error (it's ok to give yourself permission to make mistakes).

We all move through vet school in our own way – focus on you, unapologetically.  Take that extra 15-minute break, or heck take that day off if that's what you think you need.  Vet school is a marathon! It can get very tiring in many ways. In flights (remember those big aluminum tubes that bring us to world-wide destinations), they tell you to put your air mask on first before you can help others. If you meet your needs first, everything around you will then get your best self. That's how we make this world a better place.

I'll leave you with a quote shared with me on my 1^st day of vet school: "Don't let your education get in the way of your learning".  You are in that seat for a reason and gosh, our profession is so fortunate to have you.  I'm here for you & our SAVMA is here for you.  You got this friend-don't forget that. *fist bump*
-MB

Thank you for always lifting us higher Marie!

VIN Topic Rounds

Are you missing out on clinical rotations because of COVID-19? The VIN Student Team has you covered with Tuesday Topic Rounds.  During the month of September, join Dr. Sharon Gwaltney-Brant, DVM, PhD, DABVT, DABT for 30 minute, case-based sessions on Toxicology every Tuesday at 12ET. Everyone and all levels of experience are welcome. There will be time for Q&A and discussion following. The next session is Effective Decontamination Techniques on September 8, 2020 at 12 ET.

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Cat Nap Friday

Do you have any fun, socially-distant plans for Labor Day weekend?  Maybe you're just taking some time for yourself and relaxing, like our new friend Oliver!  Whether you are heading out of town or taking a cat nap, be safe out there!  Thank you to Charlotte Madahar from the University of Pennsylvania for sharing Oliver with us!

A Touch of Green

Our homes have turned into our classrooms, so it is important to create a positive learning environment!  Kate Maas from the University of Illinois brought her new decorations to life, literally!  Thank you for sharing your green thumb and your creativity with us Kate!