DR. JAMES BECKMAN ADDRESSES AUBURN STUDENTS
Dr. James Beckman of Gas Light Equine came to Auburn University to talk with the student chapter about equine
medicine and the lifestyle that an equine veterinarian can have. He spoke honestly to the students and stressed that this is one of the best times to be graduating, as anything you might imagine could be made into a reality. Demand is high as well as need, in the equine world and beyond. Often in vet school we lose sight of what a veterinarian career can be shaped into, and we begin to think we must limit our options if we are not willing to dedicate relentless amounts of time to our work, much like our study habits.
Dr. Beckman shared his own experiences with us and empha-
sized that you can make time for almost anything you deem most important to you, and it does not come at the cost of your career. “I have put my kids on the bus every morning, today is one of the only days I wasn’t there to do that.” While this does require some consideration in your choices, many students spoke of the hope and inspiration this brought them. When asked what stuck with them one student stated, “How much he cared about mentorship and enjoyed it. It reminded me that there really are great mentors out there who want to see new grad veterinarians do well for their patients and clients.” Another wrote, “that even after 20 years he loves his job.”
It is notable that many students find it surprising that a veterinarian can still enjoy their job in 20+years. Tis is a reminder of the importance of a relationship between working veterinarians and current students. Te interaction allows new perspectives on both ends of the relationship and is one of the great benefits of creating a Student Chapter.
When asked about mentorship Dr. Beckman said, when you find a good veterinarian that you want to be like, stick to them like a cocklebur. Learn from them, figure out how to be better, and most of all continue to teach others what you have learned. Otherwise, there is no point. He spoke very strongly on the importance of learning from those around you and utilizing the resources within our profession.
While there is no avoiding the demands of veterinary medicine, there are most definitely ways to reenergize our passions. Dr. Beckman did a spectacular job reminding us of what we can look forward to in a few short years. Tank you, Dr. Beckman!
We would be happy to hear from any veterinarian who would like to share advice, offer some knowledge, or simply send in their clinic information. Please contact us via email at
kvmastudentchapter@gmail.com
Additional messages for Dr. Beckman from the meeting survey:
“I absolutely loved this meeting. It was definitely one of the best from the entire semester.”
“Tank you so much for taking the time to come talk with us! It was so wonderful to have a fresh and real perspective of what equine practice can look like!”
44 KVMA News
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