I am the state aquaculture veterinarian for Wisconsin. I work closely with fish farmers to address issues of fish health. Roughly, I spend equal portions of time in the office, in the field and at meetings.
I have always enjoyed fish. I was determined to be a veterinarian. Becoming a fish veterinarian combined the two and has been an interesting journey.
Working with people who want to learn about fish health. I enjoy teaching students, veterinarians and people who raise fish how to prevent fish diseases.
Veterinary professionals struggle to be adequately compensated. This is an important consideration for anyone thinking of pursuing a career in veterinary medicine at this time.
Raise koi and goldfish at home. Garden, read newspapers from anywhere and everywhere, and take long hikes.
My family and friends, and people in everyday life who demonstrate the courage to do what is right because it is right and not because they want to be seen as heroes.
Listen to your heart, work very hard, and don't allow people to discourage you. Don't narrow your focus. You need a variety of skills -- language, math, and economics as well as biology -- to be an effective veterinarian. Learn by doing.
The opportunities are increasing for a limited number of properly trained veterinarians. This is very much a career in which you create opportunities for yourself and others.
Several years ago I would not have guessed I would be doing what I am doing now. Ten years from now I will be involved with aspects of aquaculture that I am not even thinking about now.
