The summer season brought international travel experiences for many UT Students. From Mexico to Japan and many countries in between, students took the Volunteer spirit across the globe to enhance their learning outside of the classroom. In this story, we highlight Herbert College of Agriculture students who gained hands-on veterinary experience in Belize.
The Small Animal Veterinary Experience, also known as SAVE, gives students the chance to learn and practice their skills in the field. Students in the SAVE program traveled to Belize to work with local organizations and provide animal health care abroad, while building meaningful connections and deepening their learning.
Benjamin Scharfstein, a senior studying animal science, enjoyed the hands-on experience he gained through the SAVE program.
Benjamin’s Perspective: I expected to receive hands-on experience and to help out a community that doesn’t have the resources that we have in the States. I found that this experience really challenged me to understand the “why” behind things, not just relying on surface issues. I confirm that this experience met my expectations, providing great hands-on experience and adding new knowledge about how to work in a clinical setting that I haven’t previously been taught.
From this study abroad experience, I really grew my teamwork and communication skills. Especially when dealing with patients under anesthesia, it is critical that the whole room communicates through the process. In this study abroad, we were split into teams, and our team worked together to help provide physical exams to patients. We each took turns doing tasks, leaned on each other’s different backgrounds and understandings, and social skills to effectively communicate with owners, doctors, and everyone else involved. This program taught me how important it is to work as a team so that the patient receives the best possible care.
Alyssa Mitchum is a senior studying animal science. The SAVE program was an eye-opening experience for Alyssa, as she was immersed in a new culture.
Alyssa’s Perspective: Being immersed in a new culture and environment was exciting and eye-opening. I enjoyed experiencing the culture of Belize firsthand, meeting local people, trying new foods, and seeing a way of life that was different from what I was used to. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone, but I tried to embrace every part of the experience. I came home with a greater appreciation for different cultures and perspectives, as well as a new appreciation for things I may have taken for granted at home.
My future goal is to attend veterinary school after completing my undergraduate degree and become a veterinarian. My experience in Belize strengthened this goal and gave me a refreshing new perspective on veterinary medicine outside of what I am used to in the United States. I especially loved being able to help the local community and see the impact our work had. The experience reminded me why I am passionate about veterinary medicine and made me even more excited to pursue it as a career.
Maya Dye, a junior studying animal science, enjoyed getting to experience a new culture and learn from locals.
Maya’s Perspective: It was so incredible to be able to immerse myself in the culture of San Ignacio with my peer group. We had real and raw conversations with locals, tried so many types of new foods, and temporarily experienced what it may be like to live in a different country with a completely different culture! My favorite cultural experience was going to the Mayan ruins with a wonderful guide who shared facts and stories I will remember forever!