Throughout my childhood, I was always taught about the importance of giving back. This doesn’t always mean financially, but rather donating time, which can sometimes be even more valuable. Since joining the Animal Hospital team in Plainville, I have had an opportunity to work with many students in varied stages of their pursuit to work with animals someday. Most recently, I have had several high school seniors from area towns shadow me in appointments and surgeries as part of their senior capstone projects. I love teaching all of these students as much as I can. I remember what it was like to be in their shoes! It is my hope that these experiences will help to shape the decisions they make about their careers in the future, even if those decisions steer them away from veterinary medicine. This career path is definitely not for the faint hearted, but with a little guidance and support from those currently experiencing it, we can help future generations to have the same passion as I do for the wellbeing of all animals.