"I am in awe of our class—everyone wants their peers to succeed."

Meet Ella, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) student

Aug 10, 2024 | UPEI Viewbook 2025

What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

I've wanted to be a veterinarian since I was little and never considered another career path. I have always wanted to attend AVC, but now that I am married and have children, I need to stay local as we have a farm in Nova Scotia, and relocating wasn't a practical option. I stay in PEI during the week and drive home to Martock each weekend to be with my husband and our three children, and that wouldn't be possible anywhere else.

What do you find unique and interesting about the DVM program?

The most unique thing I have discovered about the program is how much peer teaching and collaboration occur outside of classroom time. During my undergraduate degree, I travelled to school daily as a mature student, worked independently on assignments, and kept to myself. However, I've embraced this learning style, which has resulted in some great connections and friendships I may not have made otherwise.

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and faculty members?

I am in awe of our class in particular—we have an incredible number of students of various ages willing and happy to teach their peers! Everyone in our class wants their peers to succeed, which is a really great feeling in an intensive course. It was definitely something to get used to. At first, I felt like I was imposing on others to learn from them, but this learning style really benefits everyone, and I am lucky to say our class genuinely wants to help each other out. I also know I am a minority in the class being the only one with children, but I appreciate how empathetic my classmates are. They can tell when I feel sad about missing my children, and they will try to keep me busy or send me encouraging messages in support. I've also been very impressed by the staff at AVC. Our professors are extremely kind and have a sense of humour. Many staff members know I have children and go out of their way to ask how they are. When I started the program our youngest son was three months old and administration was quick to set up a private room for pumping. The staff in the AVC cafeteria are lovely; anytime I stop in for a coffee, they encourage me by telling me how many days are left in the week until I get to see my family.

What kinds of opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI, or because of the Island location?

So many hands-on opportunities are available, whether it's lunch lectures or through the various clubs. It is voluntary, so you can participate and attend when you feel it works for you. For instance, with the bovine club, I attend each guest's lunch lecture and try to participate in "wet labs" outside of class time, doing things like calf necropsies. Next year I am looking forward to joining more groups.

"Everyone in our class wants their peers to succeed, which is a really great feeling in an intensive course. It was definitely something to get used to. At first, I felt like I was imposing on others to learn from them, but this learning style really benefits everyone, and I am lucky to say our class genuinely wants to help each other out."

What's unique about UPEI, and Prince Edward Island, in your experience?

I love being surrounded by two of my favourite things: agriculture and the beach.

four UPEI DVM students talking in the AVC learning commons

What would you tell a student considering the DVM program?

I would say to always make time for what you love, whether that is your family or a hobby; it's important to incorporate the things you love into your schedule. Don't wait until you "have time," because you truly never will!