Since Claire Merchant was in pre-k, it’s always been her goal to become a veterinarian.
“It started as just a pipe dream that I didn’t know much about,” Claire said. “As I grew up and was exposed more to the field I fell in love with the profession. I love being able to help people and their pets simultaneously.”
A White Lake, Michigan, native, Claire said she is excited to return to her home state to hike, ski, and spend time with her family on the lake. First, she plans to head to Boston to pursue a one-year emergency mentorship program at Veterinary Emergency Group.
“WSU has given me countless opportunities to help further prepare me for my veterinary career. Between practicing a variety of skills in our skills lab and practicing client communication in the Diagnostic Challenges and the communication course, I feel like I have been able to greatly broaden my knowledge,” Claire said. “I also feel like since I have had exposure to so many different specialties throughout my time at WSU, it has truly allowed me to discover what I am passionate about.”
Claire has three pets of her own: an English springer spaniel named Tucker, a dachshund mix named Poppy, and an axolotl named Olive.
Fun Fact: Claire chose to complete her undergraduate degree at Boise State University, largely in part due to the campus’ close proximity to giraffes at Zoo Boise.