This summer after Olivia Grace earns her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, she plans to serve her country by practicing veterinary medicine for the U.S. military.
Olivia will have the opportunity to work with privately owned animals on base and on government owned animals ranging from dogs and horses to seals and dolphins that are used by the U.S. Navy. She will also assist with public health and regular military training and drills.
Olivia, who has her eyes set on the military’s coveted Expert Field Medical Badge, said she feels prepared largely from WSU’s curriculum and an atmosphere that is less about the school and more about the students.
“The College of Veterinary Medicine maintains a humble yet powerful culture that the school itself is not the main point, but the launching point for a career in veterinary medicine,” Olivia said. “WSU has prepared me with extensive communication training, a collaborative learning environment, and an openness to self-initiated opportunities.”
Olivia said she will miss her favorite local restaurant, Suchada’s Thai food; her favorite local place, The Moscow Public Library; and one of her favorite people in the community, TJ from Paradise Creek Cyclery/Moscow Ice Rink.
“He is the epitome of a man for others. From his work with the girl’s hockey team to autistic students, he gives without counting the cost. I like planning for a couple hours of storytelling and life wisdom with each of my bike tune-ups,” she said.
Olivia finds joy in weightlifting, surgery, and summiting volcanoes.
Fun Fact: Olivia worked as a humpback whale naturalist and got certified as a national interpretive guide in Maui.
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