Atlantic Veterinary College hosts the 2023 Students of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association Symposium
The Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) recently hosted the 2023 Students of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (SCVMA) Symposium on Thursday, January 19 to Saturday, January 21.
The annual symposium provides an opportunity for doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) students attending a Canadian veterinary college to come together, exchange ideas, develop and practice new skills, and learn information about the profession.
“We were so pleased to welcome our colleagues from across the country, show them our beautiful province, and have the opportunity to introduce them to the great work and research that is happening at the Atlantic Veterinary College,” explains Lindsay Gallant, lead organizer of the symposium and DVM student in AVC’s Class of 2025. “This was the first time since 2019 that the symposium was held in person which meant that we were able to offer hands-on learning and provide an opportunity to connect more meaningfully with speakers and other veterinary students.”
The symposium welcomed over 190 students from AVC, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire at Université de Montréal, Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph, Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan, and the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Calgary.
Participants participated in wet labs, guest presentations, and lectures that were facilitated by AVC faculty and staff, as well as other experts in the field of veterinary medicine. In addition to this, students toured Prince Edward Island, and participated in various social and networking events.
The weekend culminated with a black-tie gala and keynote presentation featuring Dr. Heather Gunn-McQuillan, assistant dean of clinical and professional programming, AVC, who spoke about perseverance in veterinary medicine.
“Our chosen career path is both challenging and incredibly rewarding,” says Gallant. “Making connections with our colleagues and industry partners across the country is important as they will be a source of knowledge and support throughout our careers. We are grateful to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association and AVC for providing us with this opportunity.”
