Hometown: Cashmere, WA
Undergraduate Degree: Animal Sciences (WSU)
Area of Interest: Equine Surgery
Corey Phillips always knew he wanted a career where he could serve others in some of their most difficult moments. Drawn to equine orthopedic and GI surgery, Corey says he’s motivated by the chance to help both animals and the people who care for them.
“When we show up for work it’s usually just another day,” he said. “But when clients show up, it could be one of the worst days of their lives. Being able to help in any way is a passion of mine.”
At WSU, Corey has valued the college’s emphasis on communication, business, and hands-on learning—skills he feels are “groundbreaking and extremely beneficial” for new graduates entering the profession. He’s currently exploring his options after graduation, including an internship-to-residency path in equine surgery or a future in practice management.
Outside of school, Corey heads back to central Washington whenever he can to ski, hike, run, or hunt—outdoor hobbies that help keep him grounded in veterinary school.
He’s also spent the last six summers working on a Forest Service wildfire handcrew, calling it one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.
Corey looks forward to getting a dog after graduation. His favorite season is winter, and he hopes to experience a “never-summer” ski season someday.