Clinicians' Panel on Mental Health

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Join SAVMA this Saturday, September 19th as we collaborate with several professional student organizations to focus on mental health and suicide prevention awareness with a panel of clinicians. Despite the differences of our respective professions, we are all impacted by mental health. Please register through the Google form located on the following Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/742740193243207/.

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!

Wellbeing Support Fund Accepting Applications

 As veterinary students return to classes in the world of COVID-19, maintaining mental and emotional wellbeing is more important than ever.  Have a creative and unique idea to provide your classmates with a virtual wellness boost? Look no further! The SAVMA Wellbeing Committee is currently reviewing applications for their Wellness Support Fund. Take a look below for details!

In light of the growing body of evidence indicating high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression in the veterinary profession, the SAVMA Wellbeing Committee recognizes that there is a considerable need to transform the culture of veterinary schools into one that is safe, promotes self-awareness, and encourages healthy living habits.  The committee will award up to $2,500.00 each cycle to student applicants demonstrating the need for assistance with a project, lecture, or event(s) that will foster physical or mental wellbeing in their respective college, on an as needed basis. This cycle ends December 31, 2020.

Click here for the application!

Please send any questions to savmawellbeing@gmail.com.

A New Generation of Leaders

At the 2020 Virtual AVMA Convention, the SAVMA House of Delegates elected new delegates to the remaining positions on the National SAVMA Executive Board.  Originating from veterinary schools across the country and beyond, these students truly embody what it means to be better together. They are incredibly passionate about the bright future of veterinary medicine and serving the veterinary student community on a national level.  The purpose of the National SAVMA Executive Board is to listen to YOU, veterinary students – your experiences, ideas, concerns, and questions – and in combination with the AVMA, advocate for real change in the field of veterinary medicine.  Please join me in welcoming the newest faces of SAVMA!

Top Row, Left to Right:

Pallavi Oruganti (Cultural Outreach Officer-Elect), Sarah Delmotte (Editor in Chief-Elect), Hidayah Martinez Jaka (President-Elect), Tyler McMurray (Veterinary Economics Officer-Elect), Jonathan Dumas (Chapter President Representative-Elect)

Bottom Row, Left to Right:

Ilissa Chasnick (Treasurer-Elect), Ashley Miller (Global and Public Health Officer-Elect), Laci Taylor (International Exchange Officer-Elect), Brooke MacNeill (Secretary-Elect), Hanna Netisingha (Communications and Public Relations Officer-Elect)

Contact information for each official listed above can be found here with your student AVMA login.

4 Tips for Nailing Your Vet Interview

Fourth year students... are you starting to think about post-graduate plans? Nailing your interview is the key to success! Vet Finders created this guide with advice on how to stand out during your vet interview. Check it out!

Preparation forms the foundation for a successful job interview. Going for your vet interview well prepared will not only help you build confidence but will also project a positive impression on the interviewer. Apart from the profile that you are applying for, the major concern for an interviewer will be your education, training, and your way of interacting with people.

The interview will be a key opportunity for you to elaborate on your resume and showcase your skillset. This will make the interviewers realize your suitability for the job. So, here are some tips that can help you make a major difference in the outcome of your vet interview.

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