While her peers in the Class of 2025 are highlighted on this page entirely based on student nominations, Jessi Johnson is the first in her class (and any class in the past five years) to be nominated by a Veterinary Teaching Hospital client.
Jessi is interested in caring for large and small animals and plans to work at a mixed animal practice after graduation.
“I’m particularly drawn to practicing in areas like Idaho or Washington, where the diverse animal populations and rural communities offer unique challenges and opportunities,” Jessi said. “I’m excited about the chance to make a positive impact in these regions while broadening my skill set as a veterinarian.”
Back at home, Jessi’s animals represent many of the same species she plans to care for in her career: two shih tzus, Amira and Phayla; one cat, Button; a quarter horse named Tigger; and a whole school of fish.
In addition to owning her own horse, Jessi has been showing and riding horses much of her life, which is a big reason she chose to be a veterinarian, but not the only reason.
“I am passionate about helping both animals and their owners through difficult situations, and I want to be the voice that guides their care,” Jessi said. “By offering compassionate, knowledgeable support, I hope to improve the lives of animals and bring peace of mind to their families.”