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Published 6/16/25
Story contact: Nicholas Childress, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photos by Karen Clifford
Seventeen high school students from across the country spent four days at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine last week getting an immersive look at the world of veterinary medicine through the 2025 Advanced Veterinary Academy. Designed to mirror the experience of a veterinary student, the program offered hands-on labs, clinical shadowing and lectures that brought science to life. From dissecting specimens to exploring careers in animal and public health, participants discovered the complexity and possibilities of the profession they hope to enter.
“The Advanced Veterinary Academy provides students a unique perspective into life as a veterinary student,” said Doug Tindall, coordinator of student recruitment. “Attending veterinary lectures, simulated labs and clinical rotations gives them insight into the veterinary curriculum. It’s an opportunity to set expectations, spark motivation and help them picture their future in veterinary medicine, which has produced not only successful veterinary students but CVM graduates.”
For Madeline Sharky, the four-day program brought clarity to her career path. “The academy is valuable because it really gives you a taste of everything,” she said. “You learn about a lot of the specialties and things you really wouldn’t have learned before experiencing them.”
