Article Release: Issue 21
Release Date: March 5, 2025
Written By: Alyssa Rodriguez, Veterinary Assistant

 

Shaping the Future of Veterinary Medicine Through Hands-On Student Experience

At Animal Surgical Center, we are deeply committed to mentorship and education in veterinary medicine. Through our externship program, we proudly partner with colleges and universities to provide veterinary students with real-world, hands-on experience in a high-caliber clinical setting.

One of our most impactful collaborations is with the bright and passionate students of Long Island University’s Lewyt College of Veterinary Medicine. Each extern arrives at ASC filled with excitement (and maybe a little nervous energy) as they step into the fast-paced world of surgery, anesthesia, and advanced veterinary care.

But what is it really like to be an extern at ASC? We asked three of our past externs to share their experiences, lessons learned, and advice for future students.

Extern Reflections: Lessons Learned and the Path Ahead

Jess M. – Mastering Surgical Techniques & Gaining Confidence
“The biggest thing I gained from ASC’s externship was a fundamental understanding of suture techniques. Dr. Infernuso was incredibly helpful in teaching atraumatic tissue handling, a skill I now use every day. No matter what surgery I perform, I know my patients are more comfortable afterward, and their owners appreciate the careful attention to detail.”

For future externs, Jess emphasizes that you get out of the experience what you put in. “Be willing to step in, pay attention, study the procedures, and ask questions. The hands-on experience you receive here is invaluable, and you’ll feel yourself becoming more confident every day.”

Since graduating from LIU in 2024, Jess now works at a private general practice and exotics hospital in New Jersey, balancing two dedicated surgery days and volunteering at a high-volume spay and neuter program on her days off.

Courtney H. – A Surgical Rotation That Prepares You for the Future
“I am currently finishing my first year as a combined comparative medicine resident/PhD student at Colorado State University. I graduated from LIU CVM’s inaugural class of 2024 and had the opportunity to do my surgery and anesthesia rotations at ASC. Dr. Infernuso was dedicated to ensuring we had hands-on opportunities, including scrubbing in for various procedures. He also encouraged us to deepen our surgical knowledge by having us present cases and discuss treatment options, which proved invaluable when studying for the NAVLE.”

For those willing to fully engage in the externship, Courtney shares this tip: “If you give it your all, Dr. Infernuso might even let you run the TPLO drill and close up incisions—with beauty and precision!”

One of her biggest takeaways? The importance of living by your values in veterinary medicine. “I still repeat the motto, ‘Save as many animal lives as possible by providing excellent service at a fair price.’ Even though my current work is research-based, that core principle has stayed with me.”

Nick M. – From Extern to Team Member at ASC
“As a fourth-year veterinary student at Long Island University, I had the privilege of participating in a surgical and anesthesia externship at Animal Surgical Center, a high-caliber specialty hospital. This experience was truly invaluable—not only in honing my clinical and technical skills but also in strengthening my understanding of real-world veterinary medicine.”

During his externship, Nick worked alongside board-certified surgeons, enhancing his surgical anatomy knowledge, technical skills like catheter placement and intubation, and understanding of anesthesia protocols. Weekly lectures with ASC’s board-certified anesthesiologist provided additional insight into patient management.

“Future externs should expect a challenging yet rewarding experience. The high surgical caseload at ASC ensures exposure to a variety of complex cases, and the team fosters a culture of mentorship and growth. The fast-paced environment mirrors emergency medicine—a field I’m now passionate about and plan to pursue!”

Since completing his externship, Nick has joined the ASC team, gaining even more hands-on experience when his schedule allows. “This externship solidified my foundation in veterinary surgery and prepared me for my transition from student to clinician. I highly recommend it to students eager to expand their knowledge and immerse themselves in a dynamic clinical setting!”

How ASC Supports Future Veterinarians

From Externs to Team Members

Over the course of their externships, these students become more than just learners—they become part of the ASC family. Throughout their time here, they have the opportunity to shadow our skilled surgeons, assist in procedures, and join in on team bonding (yes, that means pizza and Guac Shop nights! 🌮).

Their contributions to our team are invaluable—whether stepping in when we’re short-staffed, assisting in soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries, or volunteering their newfound skills at our Save a Life: Free Snip & Fix for Rescue Animals events.

Their growth is inspiring, but what truly makes this program special is the mutual benefit. While we mentor and guide them, they bring fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and a hunger for knowledge that reinvigorates our team. They remind us why mentorship, education, and a passion for veterinary medicine are at the heart of what we do.

The Future of Veterinary Medicine Starts Here

ASC remains committed to shaping the future of veterinary medicine through education and mentorship. We look forward to welcoming more talented externs who are eager to learn, grow, and make a difference in the field of surgery and advanced veterinary care. To all the externs who have walked through our doors—thank you for your hard work, dedication, and passion. You have left an impact on our team, just as we hope we have left an impact on you.

💡 Are you a veterinary student looking for an externship opportunity? Contact us today to learn more about our externship program at Animal Surgical Center!

With Care & Compassion,
The ASC Team