Vet Tech Alumna Begins Career at Birds & Exotics Center
November 8, 2012
Katie White poses with her patient, an eagle, during her internship at The Wildlife Center of Virginia.
Katie White, a 2011 graduate of the School of Animal Science, is working at her dream job—she is now a Licensed Veterinary Technician at the Veterinary Center for Birds & Exotics in Bedford Hills, New York. White credits Mount Ida’s rigorous Vet Tech program for sparking her interest in exotic animals and, ultimately, helping her secure a position in her chosen field.
“From my off-campus internships, I discovered that I enjoy caring for wildlife because I am always ready for a challenge,” said White. “In this specialty, you are never going to learn it all and you will have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of animals.”
In her four years at Mount Ida, White participated in internships at non-profit organizations, including the New England Wildlife Center, The Wildlife Center of Virginia, and Boston Science Museum. Through hands-on experience at zoos, general practices, wildlife centers, and as a teacher’s assistant in microbiology, there were countless opportunities for White to find her niche in veterinary technology.
And find her niche she did, at her final internship in Virginia, where she nursed wild animals, such as eagles, bears, snakes, owls, and other reptiles. This nine-month diagnostic internship opened doors for White as her former supervisor contacted her through LinkedIn regarding the full-time job in New York.
“My advice to current and future Vet Tech student is to keep your grades up and try every kind of specialty through internships,” shared White. “My new job is an exciting journey because I am taking care of other peoples’ pets, but I am eager to jump in and get involved.”
For information on Mount Ida College’s Veterinary Technology program, visit our website. To schedule a campus visit, call the Admissions Office at (617) 928-4553 or email admissions@mountida.edu. If you are interested in learning more about our Vet Tech curriculum, click here.