BOONE, N.C. — Housed in the College of Arts and Sciences' Department of Rural Resilience and Innovation, Appalachian State's veterinary technology program supports a growing need for skilled veterinary specialists in rural communities and advances industry standards by contributing to a more sustainable future for the veterinary profession.
National Veterinary Technician Week began in 1993 and takes place annually during the third week of October. As we celebrate hardworking veterinary professionals during the 21st National Veterinary Technician Week (October 13-19, 2024), meet 17 students in the veterinary technology program at App State:
Jana Babuszczak | Magnolia, TX
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have a 34-year-old miniature stallion, a 26-year-old miniature horse, a 14-year-old miniature donkey, some chickens and geriatric cats.”
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I already have my AAS in veterinary technology and wanted to further my education by getting a bachelor of science in veterinary technology but with working two jobs, I could not do in-person classes.”
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“Being online since I work two jobs.”
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I am already in small animal practice, consult on some equine medicine, as well as assist the Humane Society of the United States with equine cruelty cases, and I pet sit on the side.”
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I have been riding horses since I was 10. I have a spot in my breed's Hall of Fame and multiple National Championships and National Grand Championships.”
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Justin Blanton | Wilmington, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have two dogs named Zoey and Beanie and two cats named Percy and Hades."
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I wanted to earn my bachelor’s degree in veterinary technology. I wanted the flexibility of an online program, the ability to work full time and an easier way to continue my education after I graduate."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“Developing relationships with the staff members and other students. Even though it’s an online program, I feel like I’ve gained so many friendships and connections that will last a lifetime. Plus, App’s faculty are truly the best in the field, and they set a great example of what is achievable in the realm of veterinary technology."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I want to progress through the field as much as I can. I feel motivated to pursue a specialty, a master's degree, as well as state and even national leadership roles."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I’ve valued my time as the Student Chapter of the National Association of Veterinary Technician Educators (SCNAVTA) president, and I feel like it has opened up even more connections for me. The opportunity to facilitate engagement with students in the program has been nothing but enriching."
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Trish Davis | Taylorsville, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“We have two dogs, Piper and Paislee, and four cats, Stacy, Stevie, Lil’ Sebastian and Smegol!"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I chose App’s veterinary technology program because of the convenience it offered me working as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) full time while having a structured schedule. I have attended App State before and always loved the close knit sense of community the students and faculty share."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“My favorite part has been the connections I’ve made with fellow students and our faculty! This is my last semester and I feel so proud to be a part of such an incredible group of people. Everyone I’ve worked with has a true passion for veterinary medicine and shaping the future of the field."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I plan to move higher in management within my hospital to better advocate for all of my technicians and assistants. I want to use what I’ve learned to enhance our patient care, emotional intelligence and empathy in all aspects of the field."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I’m a self-proclaimed gym rat and avid reader! I also love otters and birds of prey."
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Ireyona Demary | Lincolnton, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have two dogs (Silas and Kane). Silas is a loving Boxer who loves to give hugs and Kane is our Pitbull mix who loves to be a watchdog but is the goofiest pup!"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I thought it would be a great opportunity to further my education with another bachelor's degree and learn more about what it means to be a veterinary technologist. I have heard great things about the program and have a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) that I'm close to that mentioned she does some of the continuing education courses through the program."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“I am learning more about the specialty aspect of veterinary medicine which is more up my alley as I've wanted to work with large exotics since I was a child."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I plan to use my veterinary technology degree to improve veterinary medicine and research while also increasing patient care in the clinics. I've always dreamt of working with large exotics and I would love to be part of the rehabilitation of these amazing animals. The opportunity to advocate for these animals and help others understand that they are not pets and shouldn't be treated as such is extremely important to me. I am very passionate about how these animals are treated and how I can improve their overall health."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I enjoy working in my general practitioner hospital with the small exotics I get the chance to help treat. It has been an amazing opportunity to work alongside the doctors I'm working for currently and understanding how the technology is changing in veterinary medicine to help advance treatment for our patients."
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Rachel Flake | Wadesboro, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“Two cats - Gilbert and Petunia; Chickens - Wanda, Mary Ann, Thelma and Louise"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“Being a 2022 alum, I wanted to continue doing what I love and further my education in vet med."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“Making life-long friends in the vet med field."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“Take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) to become registered and continue working in a general practice setting."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I will be graduating in December!"
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Adysen Gulley | Claiborne County, TN
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have dogs, cats and horses.”
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“It was the best fit for my busy life.”
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“I have loved meeting people that share common interests with myself and learning about this field.”
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I plan on becoming an equine veterinary technician.”
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I enjoy working with my horses during my free time.”
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Ashley Hicks | Supply, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have a mini farm consisting of three dogs (Horton, Sam and LeeLou), five cats (Sharkie, Squid, E.T., Blackie and Birdie), two goats (Bonnie and Clyde), a bunny (Puddin) and about 13 chickens!"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I had graduated from an online vet tech school with my associates in 2016. I received my RVT license soon after. I really wanted to pursue more education and get more from another program. But instead, this time, I wanted to feel like I was a part of a community, instead of just another student number. I am glad to call App State my college!"
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“Probably the AsULearn portal. It's so easy and a great way to keep everything in one place."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I plan to further my knowledge and continue to later apply to vet school."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I am a mother of two beautiful girls, Cora and Callie. They are what drive me to do better and show them that if you have a dream, you can do it no matter the obstacles. I want to show them that they are capable of accomplishing anything. It's hard juggling a full-time job, children, the farm, being a wife and pursuing a career, but we only have the time we are given, and it's what you do with that time that makes an impact."
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Nathaia Lassiter | Statesville, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“No, however I take care of many exotics as a zookeeper!"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I chose Appalachian State’s veterinary technology program because of its perfect blend of academics and environment. As someone who loves nature, the campus's natural beauty immediately resonated with me. The program itself stood out for its strong reputation and hands-on approach to veterinary care. Being accepted into the program has allowed me to take meaningful steps toward my career goals and move closer to realizing my dream of becoming a veterinary professional."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“My favorite part of Appalachian State's veterinary technology program so far has been the incredible hands-on experiences, especially the opportunity to study abroad in Zimbabwe. Working with diverse animal species and learning from experienced professionals in Zimbabwe has broadened my perspective."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I plan to use my veterinary technology degree as a foundation for a diverse and rewarding career. Initially, I want to work as a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT), where I can gain hands-on experience with small, large, and exotic animals. After building my experience as an RVT, I plan to further my career by pursuing a degree in veterinary medicine, ultimately fulfilling my dream of becoming a veterinarian and providing comprehensive care to all kinds of animals."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I love staying active in my community outside my academic and professional goals. I teach Sunday school, which has been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to share my faith and connect with others. In my free time, I enjoy reading and exercising, which help me stay balanced and energized. One of my proudest accomplishments is being inducted into the Honor Society, which reflects the hard work and dedication I've put into my studies."
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Gabby Loftis | Raleigh, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“Yes! I have three cats and a dog. We just got our third cat, a little domestic shorthair orange dilute tabby named Kumquat! She’s the absolute best and brings so many smiles to our home. Our other two cats, Pepper and Theo, haven’t quite decided how they feel about her yet. My dog, Drako, is a pit/boxer mix that’s nine-and-a-half years old but acts like a puppy still. He's the love of my life, and I say he has three thoughts : 1) food, 2) his ball and 3) cuddles."
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I chose the program because it's a four-year degree that’s offered online!"
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“Getting Fear Free certified!"
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I currently work in a veterinary emergency room, and I plan to use my degree by furthering my knowledge and getting my Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in emergency and critical care. Once I’m done working in a clinical setting, I would like to be a teacher in a veterinary technician program."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I’m an avid reader and Lego builder. And by the time tech week comes around, I’ll be engaged to the love of my life!"
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Braedyn McClamroch | Kernersville, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“Yes! I have a kitty named Lorelai and another named Stella."
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I actually was already attending App State when this program was created. I love App and I love animals and this program just seemed like such a good fit for me."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“My favorite part about this program has been growing my knowledge of veterinary medicine, restraint and fear free handling and learning about large and exotic species!"
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“When I graduate, I plan on becoming a registered technician and possibly working with large or wildlife species. I also would love to work with CVM, which is a Christian veterinary mission organization dedicated to providing veterinary care and medicine around the world to those who can't afford it. I would love to volunteer once a year with them and go to different impoverished countries helping animals and sharing the love of Jesus!"
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“When I'm not focusing on school, I enjoy working out, baking, cooking and scrapbooking."
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Nathan Moyer | Southport, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“Yes! I have five pittie/pit mixes. Emmie, my oldest and most stubborn, a black pittie at 15 years old and going strong. Betty Lou, my goofy "red" staffie somewhere between 12-14 years old. Johnny, my sweet tan pittie, is nine years old. Ollie, my loyal and trusting white pit/catahoula/heinz 57, will soon be seven. Smoky, my youngest, is a ball of energy and adventure is about two-and-a-half."
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I didn't really plan on pursuing further education after obtaining my associates and becoming a licensed technician, but after five years in the field I became bored with the status quo. I needed to gain a deeper understanding of the medicine I was practicing. I also had an opportunity to become an educator myself. With those events coinciding, as well as App State's program starting, it was an easy decision, one in which I advocate to my students at the associates program in which I teach. Obtaining a greater depth of knowledge has already proved to be advantageous in my career."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“Even without my easy answer of the study abroad trip to Zimbabwe, it would be hard to choose. Gaining a deeper knowledge of the subjects I am passionate about, such as dentistry, diagnostic imaging and compassionate end of life care, has been invaluable and has reinforced my decision to be in the career."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“The fire has been lit. I plan on moving on to a master's degree, most likely in veterinary education at LMU, as well as earning my Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in dentistry. Getting a VTS in imaging is also an aspiration. I will also use my education to improve the conditions of credentialed veterinary technicians in my community. To further educate my colleagues and my community to improve our lives and those of our animal friends."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“The timing of my time at App State could not be better. I am proud to promote both App State and the North Carolina Association of Veterinary Technicians (NCAVT) in bringing the best out of the North Carolina's Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) community. As the education coordinator with the NCAVT, I'm proud to be a soon-to-be graduate from App State. Being able to be involved with such a dedicated group of educators, and a class of students hungry and eager to learn has been more than beneficial."
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Mary Pettengill | High Point, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have three cats! Figgy, Minerva and Scarab are the kitties that let me live in their house. Figgy is a two-year-old tuxedo who is very sassy but also loves to burrow in blankets. Scarab is estimated to be two to three years old and is a lilac tabby. He’s a small king and loves doing midnight parkour! Minerva is estimated to be about eight years old and is a very sweet torbie and mother figure to Figgy and Scarab. She loves any form of attention, and if you have class with me you’ve probably seen her sitting on my lap!"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“Being someone who has already entered the workforce and struggles to find an in-person vet tech program that can work with my schedule, I chose App State for its flexible online program and because I will be working towards a bachelor’s degree when other online programs I’ve seen are associate's level."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“It’s hard to pick, but I love my classes and I love how enthusiastic and helpful all of my professors and peers are!"
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I aspire to become a veterinary technician at an Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) accredited zoo! I love animals of all shapes and sizes and want to dedicate my life to serving the world’s most unique. I want to build a lifelong bond with the animals I work with and want to make them happy and healthy so the public can enjoy their presence as well."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I look forward to continuing this program and learning how to best serve animals! I currently work in research, where I care for mice, rats, rabbits, pigs and sheep. When I’m not working or studying I enjoy crochet, video games and taking naps."
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Brittney Prestwood | Lenoir, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have eight dogs! Six full-blooded labs and one teacup yorkie and a Maltese. One of my labs is a senior and his name is Freddie. However he has Lar Par, which is paralysis of the larynx, and it’s hard for him to breathe sometimes. But the cutest thing is Freddie and my little teacup yorkie are best buds and they do everything together. It’s the sweetest friendship."
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I have always loved animals and wanted to help them as much as I can. Since I was about four or five, I wanted to be a vet tech. Being able to help the animals when I can will be a big achievement for me in life."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“Meeting new people with the same desire."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I want to work in a small clinic, but I thought eventually I would like to open my own boarding and dog hotel to be the on-site vet tech."
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Alyssa Reist | Monroe, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have a German shepherd sheltie mix who is a therapy dog, but not as much anymore because she is a 14-year-old girl now. I also have a 14-year-old sassy calico cat named Hannah who loves attention and food!"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I chose App State's program because I wanted to finish up my bachelor's degree so that I had more options in my career. I also chose it because of the flexibility of doing online school while being able to work as well."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“My favorite part of the program thus far has been the professors. They are all very knowledgeable and kind. I can go to them with any questions or concerns and most are understanding of certain circumstances. I also enjoy the team-based learning and getting to know some of the other future vet techs that want to help this industry succeed to the next level."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I hope to probably go into ER/ICU and maybe end up specializing in one Veterinary Technician Specialty (VTS). I also think that large animal or zoo medicine would be interesting as well."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“In my free time, I like to hike, horseback ride, read (non-textbooks), bake, etc."
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Cesar Rivera Bruno | Wilmington, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have three fury kids. Mulan has the biggest personality. She is a seven-year-old pug. Khala: She is very stoic. She is a six-year-old, mixed-breed dog. She looks like a mini aussie. Then we have Mushu. He is the destructor of all things. He is a three-year-old cat."
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“After working a few years in the emergency veterinary field, I knew that I wanted to become a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT). I just did not see how to make time to study and be in in-person classes. A good friend from work recommended the program, and it just fit in with my lifestyle."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“I have only been part of the program for one semester, but so far I have enjoyed my time here. One of my favorite parts of the program is team learning. Although we do not have in-person classes, it allows me to meet other students in the program."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“My plan is to keep working in emergency medicine and in three years, apply to become a Veterinary Technician Specialist (VTS) in emergency critical care."
Is there anything else you'd like to share (accomplishments, hobbies, etc.)?
“I am into endurance sports. I was a competitive swimmer growing up. I have fallen in love with long distance triathlons. As of right now, I have completed three half IRONMAN (1.5 miles swimming, 56 miles of biking and 13.1 of running). In the future, I want to do a full-distance IRONMAN."
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Madison Seitz | Monroe, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have six dogs and nine cats. I also raise nubian dairy goats. I love my goats! My favorite goat is named Icatcher, and I have had her since I was 11. She is now 10 years old and enjoying her retirement years!"
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“I chose this program due to living on a farm and having family responsibilities. I wasn't going to be able to go to college if I had to go to in-person classes on campus."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“My favorite part of this program so far has been meeting new people who have the same interests and passions that I do!"
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“I would love to work with large animals, maybe even at an emergency clinic."
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Logan Trivette | Hickory, NC
Do you have any animals? If so, tell us about them!
“I have seven cats: Simba, Theo, Freya, Gracie, Buffy, Captain Hook (aka Hooks) and Krill. I also have a golden retriever named Duchess. She's new to the family."
Why did you choose Appalachian State's veterinary technology program?
“Honestly, I have been in college a long time and never could find something I was passionate about. Growing up my dream was to be a veterinarian so when I saw App State had a new vet tech program I had to apply. I had never worked in vet med before but I knew I loved animals so I figure I would give it a try. I applied in 2022 and was accepted and that made my whole year! Fast forward to 2024, I have one year left, and I just recently went on the program's first Africa trip and, man, was it life changing! I have found what it means to be a team player and to truly advocate for those who do not have a voice. I am the change I want to see in vet med."
What has been your favorite part of the veterinary technology program so far?
“The team-based learning. At first I really didn’t like it, until I went to Africa and I found out what it meant to truly have a great team by your side."
How do you plan to use your veterinary technology degree?
“Once out of school and after I pass my Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), I plan to work in a general practice. Currently, I have found a wonderful place to work at that has a very positive atmosphere. Eventually, I would like to move up in the company."
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About the Department of Rural Resilience and Innovation
Appalachian State University’s Department of Rural Resilience and Innovation is one of 17 academic departments in the College of Arts and Sciences and serves as a hub for App State faculty, staff and students working on scholarship, teaching and service with rural community partners. The department, which launched in summer 2021, is home to App State’s online, four-year Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology degree and offers seed grants to fund research or service-learning class collaborations that address challenges faced by rural American communities. Learn more at rri.appstate.edu.
Compiled by Lauren Gibbs
October 13, 2024
BOONE, N.C.
The Veterinary Technology program in Appalachian State University's Department of Rural Resilience and Innovation
The Veterinary Technology program in Appalachian State University's Department of Rural Resilience and Innovation