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Aimee Thompson

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Bio

As a veterinarian, I plan to serve in rural veterinary shortage areas in the Western US. Coming from a small town with no veterinary care, I appreciate the struggles rural living poses to owners and producers, and plan to help alleviate this. As a Nevada native, I am in an unfortunate position for veterinary school. Nevada currently does not have a doctorate of veterinary medicine school in the state, so I am attending another college as an out-of-state student. As one can imaging this is a significant financial burden, and I am always seeking out scholarship opportunities to help finance my dream. Your consideration for any scholarship is greatly appreciated!

Education

Washington State University

Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
2021 - 2025
  • Majors:
    • Veterinary Biomedical and Clinical Sciences

University of Nevada-Reno

Bachelor's degree program
2018 - 2021
  • Majors:
    • Agriculture/Veterinary Preparatory Programs

Tonopah High School

High School
2014 - 2018

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Veterinary Biomedical and Clinical Sciences
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Veterinary

    • Dream career goals:

      Serve in rural veterinary shortage areas, that are underrepresented, as a mixed animal veterinarian.

    • Office Worker / Delivery Driver

      FedEx Contractor Delivery Service
      2021 – 20232 years
    • Highway Construction Aide

      Nevada Department of Transportation
      2019 – 2019
    • Kennel Technician / Veterinary Assistant

      Tonopah Veterinary Hospital
      2014 – 20184 years
    • Veterinary Assistant

      Elko Veterinary Clinic
      2020 – 2020

    Sports

    Basketball

    Intramural
    2021 – 20232 years

    Track & Field

    Varsity
    2014 – 20184 years

    Basketball

    Varsity
    2014 – 20184 years

    Research

    • Agricultural and Food Products Processing

      University of Nevada - Reno — Laboratory Volunteer
      2019 – 2020

    Public services

    • Volunteering

      Tonopah High School Booster Club — Volunteer, Concession Stand
      2021 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy

    Greater Hickory Kennel Club Future Veterinarian Education Scholarship
    In society, we often hear the phrase “adopt, don’t shop” in reference to adopting shelter dogs, many of which are mixed breeds, over purchasing from a breeder or pet shop. Although, I believe that adoption is an important topic, I do not agree with the “don’t shop” portion of the statement. It is important to shop responsibly, though, typically through an experienced breeder with extensive knowledge of their specific purebred breed they work with. Although adoption carries benefits, I argue that the benefits of purebred dog ownership are often overlooked or forgotten in light of the “adopt, don’t shop” movement and are equal or sometimes greater than adoption depending on circumstance. Many of the purebred dogs available, come from a responsible breeder who is well versed in their specialty breed. When purchasing from responsible breeders, owners can typically look forward to a lifelong relationship with the breeder in term of knowledge and care of their specific breed. This is a major advantage for some owners, as they will have access to someone who is knowledgeable about their breed, if anything should come up in the future. Furthermore, purebred dogs have recognized genetic diseases that have been studied and can now be detected before breeding, effectively reducing the incidence of these diseases in future generations. In mixed breed dogs, the genetics of diseases are not as clear and are currently not tested for. In this sense, purebred dogs can be better cared for and diseases prevented due to the direct knowledge of specific breed conditions. This is a major advantage for owners, responsible breeders, and veterinary professional. Purebred dogs have been selectively breed for centuries for specific purposes. Some of these purposes include herding, retrieving, and many more. Purebred dogs have helped humans out extensively for centuries in their specific disciplines, and continue to today. Purebred dogs have natural, genetic instincts, even without training, that put them into the unique position to assist people that is not guaranteed in a mixed breed dog. I was raised on a cattle operation, and we have had purebred dogs that assist us in moving the cattle. Over the years we have had multiple Australian Shepherds and Australian Cattle dogs, that have been immensely helpful and appreciated in our cattle work. Finally, with a known and traceable genetic line, owners will have a better idea of what their dog will develop into as an adult. Purebred dogs are more predictable all around. Purebred breeds have standards that the vast majority of dogs of that breed will fit into, from temperament and lifestyle all the way to physical appearance. With this information, owners can make better informed decisions on what dog may be suitable for their lifestyle and what care needs the breed may require. From the medical perspective, this is very helpful for veterinarians when it comes to handling and presentation of certain diseases, which can be breed specific. Purebred dogs offer a multitude of advantages, that are not always appreciated by society.