Three years ago, the University of Arizona founded the College of Veterinary Medicine, the first public veterinary school in the state. Now, the college’s first class of students is set to graduate.
More than 100 students are set to receive their doctorates of veterinary medicine on Thursday.
Among them is Ricky Wagner, from Kansas City, Kansas. He says his interest in becoming a veterinarian began early.
“For me, it’s all I’ve ever wanted to do in life ever since I was young, I knew that I wanted to be a veterinarian once I realized that I could take my love for animals, my love for science, and do something that involves both of them," he said.
UA’s vet school is designed for students to finish in three years over four. The accelerated program meant there were no summer breaks.
Dean Julie Funk spoke about why the program is accelerated.
“One important thing is helping our students get into the workforce sooner. That means they have one less year of lost opportunity costs so they start earning a salary sooner," she said.
Another soon-to-be graduate is Victoria Vigstrom from San Luis Obispo, California. She initially pursued engineering but had always been drawn to animals.
“Everyone in my life has always told me that I should be a veterinarian, and I finally figured that out probably around sophomore to junior year of undergrad," she said.
Their graduation comes as Arizona is amid a vet shortage. In 2022, a bill was signed into law that would incentivize working veterinarians.
