Ambassador spotlight: Maddy Boehland

Are you considering #WSUVetMed? Every other Wednesday we are highlighting our student ambassadors who are available to provide insight into our Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program.


One of second-year veterinary student Maddy Boehland’s biggest draws to #WSUVetMed was the accelerated pre-admit program through the WSU Honors College. The program allows 10 #WSU veterinary students in each class to earn their undergraduate degree and DVM in a total of seven years rather than eight.

But once she moved to Pullman, she quickly learned that WSU’s tight-knit community may be the biggest benefit of all.

“The community is super special,” Maddy said. “The magnetic charm and small-town vibe that Pullman emanates is still applicable even in veterinary school!

Maddy, a Meridian, Idaho, native, said the community doesn’t stop at the students, it extends to professors and staff.

“I had a really rough start to my veterinary school experience due to personal grief and loss,” Maddy said. “I met with my professors, the wellness team, and even Dr. Leslie Sprunger; they were all so understanding and caring. I really felt like they cared and wanted me to succeed.”

In addition to those relationships she’s built, WSU’s hands-on learning, particularly WSU’s Open Clinical Skills Lab and the Diagnostic Challenges, has given Maddy self-assurance she needs to know she can succeed in the veterinary field.

“The hands-on opportunities are really important to my understanding and confidence, and I am grateful for the resources we have to make that happen,” she said.

Maddy is interested in working with small or mixed animals, as well as shelter medicine.

FUN FACT: Maddy was a soccer referee for six years and played for more than 12.


See all DVM Student Ambassadors