A Day in the Life of a Clinical Student
My dad graduated from UTCVM, so I grew up hearing stories about his time here—about the late nights, the hands-on learning, the friends who became like family. Because of that, expected the program to be intense and rewarding, and it absolutely has been. What surprised me the most, though, was how supportive the culture is. It’s not just about becoming a great veterinarian—it’s about becoming one together. I knew I’d be challenged, but I didn’t expect to feel so cared for in the process.
What It Means to Be a VOL
To me, UTCVM’s culture truly represents what it means to be a Volunteer. Everywhere you go, there’s someone willing to help—not because they have to but because they want to. People go out of their way to make sure you’re supported, and that kind of care makes you feel like family. Even though I’ve really enjoyed my time here, it’s going to be hard when clinics are over—because I’m not just leaving school; I’m leaving my family. So, to me, being a Vol means treating others like family.
Sunday, Midnight – Emergency Surgery
The call came at midnight—an emergency soft tissue surgery on the last Sunday of my rotation. This was the moment it all clicked: it was GO time. I scrubbed in and helped remove a large ovarian tumor we originally suspected was a ruptured pyometra. It was intense, exciting, and exactly what I hoped for in clinics.
10:30 a.m. – Chimney Tops Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
After a few hours of sleep, I woke up around 10:30 a.m. and met up with my girlfriend and a couple of friends from the Comparative and Experimental Medicine program. We headed out to Chimney Tops—a favorite hike of ours for both the challenge and the views. We actually did the exact same hike on the same date last year, so it felt like a tradition. It’s a steep climb, but if you pace it right, you’re rewarded with an incredible overlook and a hidden watering hole at the base where we swam after. I’ll never forget jumping into that freezing water after everything I’d just experienced in surgery. It reminded me that I can enjoy both my career and my personal life—all in the same day.
Monday Morning – New week, new mindset!
Equine field service begins today. Since it’s going to be a hot mid-July day, I made sure to leave the house with a water bottle. Every new rotation starts with a little caffeine and a lot of anticipation. I’m expecting a long day, so staying sharp is a priority.
8:30 a.m. – First Farm Call and Firsts in the Field
My first call on Equine Field Service started close to home. After a quick orientation in the truck with Dr. Kady Powell, we headed to a horse farm about 30 minutes outside of town. The owners were trying to breed a rare breed of horse and had been struggling with unsuccessful attempts. We sedated the mare and performed a transrectal ultrasound, which revealed that both ovarian follicles were enlarged—she was ready to ovulate. It was the first time I’d seen that in the field, and it was incredible to witness.
10:00 a.m. – From Dolly’s Arena to Equine Triage
Not long after, we continued on to our second stop: Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge, just another thirty to forty-five minutes down the road. I’d never been to the show before, but I’d heard all about it. Walking behind the scenes through the stables was surreal. We examined a few horses, but our main concern was Charlie, a show horse who’d recently been kicked during a performance and developed a wound on his back leg. After sedation, we opted for a conservative treatment plan. Before we left, McKenna Russell and I grabbed a quick photo—it was a special moment because she’s been my friend for years, and her fiancé and I got our master’s degrees together at Lipscomb.
12:30 p.m. – Learning in the Truck
Throughout the drive between calls, we talked through cases and treatment options. It’s in those in-between moments—on the road, parked at a farm gate, waiting on sedation—that some of the best teaching happens. Working with McKenna made everything smoother; we’ve known each other for years, and our friendship brings a comfort and rhythm to the day.
2:00 p.m. – Blackberry Farm, Smoky Mountains Backdrop
We finished the day at Blackberry Farm, which I now know is a world-renowned destination not far from the Smokies. The views were stunning, the barn was immaculate, and the team clearly prioritized excellent animal care. Practicing equine medicine in a place like that—where clinical work meets natural beauty — is something I’ll never forget.
3:30 p.m. – Waffles and Real-World Wisdom
On the way back from our last farm call, we stopped at Aretha Frankenstein’s in South Knoxville—famous for its massive Belgian waffles and cozy, offbeat vibe. I looked it up beforehand and made sure to try their waffles with a latte, and I was not disappointed. Most of us couldn’t even finish our food because the portions were so big. Over “breakfast”, we talked less about equine medicine and more about life after graduation. Dr. Powell shared advice on managing stress, finances, and decision-making as a new veterinarian. It was casual but incredibly insightful.
5:00 p.m. – Back to the Library, But Different This Time
Since we wrapped up early that day, I headed back to Pendergrass Library—where I’ve spent countless hours over the past three-and-a-half years. I sat in my old spot, the same place I studied anatomy, pharmacology, and everything in between. But this time, it felt different. I wasn’t stressed, cramming, or buried under lecture slides. I was preparing for the NAVLE with VetPrep, steadily chipping away at my weekly goals. Watching my progress grow was just the boost I needed.
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My Advice to Incoming Students
You belong here. Don’t let grades, pressure, or self-doubt define you. Build strong relationships early—they’ll carry you. Be kind to yourself and others. Take breaks, stay healthy, and don’t fear what you don’t know. One day, you won’t know something—but you’ll know how to find it, and that’s enough.
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