Externship - Veterinary Medicine

Overview

The Texas State Aquarium (TSA) provides an opportunity for veterinary students to gain experience in clinical medicine and rescue/rehabilitation medicine of aquatic species. TSA is located on the Corpus Christi waterfront and is an AZA-accredited facility focusing on species found in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea. The animal collection consists largely of aquatic species but also includes terrestrial birds, reptiles, amphibians, and a few terrestrial mammals.

The Wildlife Rescue Center operated by the aquarium rehabilitates mostly sea turtles and, on occasion, marine mammals.

Veterinary externs will work closely with TSA’s veterinary staff, which includes two full-time veterinarians and two licensed veterinary technicians, in the medical management of a large captive display collection as well as stranded animals presented to the wildlife rescue center. The extern’s schedule will generally be Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., but there may be times when procedures are scheduled outside of these hours depending on the medical needs of the collection or rescue program.

Students should be flexible if asked to help on the weekend.

The veterinary student externship program is open to students who will be in their 3rd, or more preferably 4th, year of veterinary school at the time of their stay h position is a minimum of 2 weeks and a maximum of 4 weeks, depending on the student's availability. The number of available positions will depend on the externship length for each year.

Preference will be given to those with prior experience in aquatic animal medicine and/or those pursuing a related field after graduation. There is currently no stipend for this position. All candidates are expected to find their own accommodation and transportation. Parking at the aquarium is provided.

Positions are available from January to May 2027. Externship blackout dates include the IAAAM conference week in May. The application period is from September 10 to December 1, 2025. Applicants will be notified of acceptance by December 31, 2025.

Applicants are required to submit the following:

• Curriculum vitae/resume
• Letter of intent reflecting the applicant’s externship goals, future career goals and any prior zoo/aquatic/exotic experience
• Proof of enrollment in a veterinary school through an electronic copy of a veterinary school transcript (unofficial is acceptable)
• 2 letters of reference
• 3 sets of available dates in order of preference during the period between January 1 – May 31, 2027

For additional questions or inquiries, please e-mail vet