Veterinary Extern - General Practice

Overview

An externship experience at an NVA hospital provides students with a unique opportunity to understand the day-to-day operations of the practice and gain valuable hands-on clinical experience. While each NVA hospital is unique, common elements include an environment that is supportive, a commitment to excellent medicine, and exceptional service to animals and the people who love them.

Students will work closely with supervising Associate Veterinarians to gain experience in gathering patient histories, performing physical exams, creating treatment plans, diagnostics, dentistry services, observing/assisting or performing surgical procedures, and medical management of patients. In addition to practicing clinical skills, externs will have opportunities to develop communication skills with the medical team, support staff, and clients.

Most externship experiences range from two to eight weeks depending on student and hospital schedules. All veterinary students (regardless of class year) are encouraged to participate in NVA externships.

Veterinary students who are in the clinical portion of their education are eligible for a travel/living expense stipend. View the list of stipend amounts and details on the stipend program.