News
Transition Ceremony Begins New Chapter for Seventh Semester Class
12/30/11
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts—On Thursday, December 8, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) held its eighth Transition Ceremony to celebrate the progress of its seventh semester students as they move forward to complete their clinical semesters. The ceremony symbolizes the transition that takes place as the students complete their didactic training in St. Kitts and begin their clinical training at one of twenty-three RUSVM affiliated AVMA-accredited U.S. veterinary schools.
Simon J. Kenyon, BVM, PhD, professor of food animal medicine, presided over the ceremony, which honored the Class of 2013 and conveyed the importance of the academic preparation the students received while completing their didactic training.
John Dascanio, VMD, professor of theriogenology, applauded the students on behalf of the dean and the RUSVM administration, “I would like to offer my heartfelt congratulations to all of you on your accomplishments to date. As you move into your clinical year, remember that this is the home stretch. You have received an excellent education that will prepare you well for clinics.” Dascanio urged the students to make the most of their clinical rotations, “take your responsibilities seriously, show up early, actively participate and make the RUSVM name shine through your actions.”
Faculty members from the three sections of the veterinarian program spoke to the students providing encouraging words. Representing the Structure and Function Section, Dustine Spencer, DVM, assistant professor of anatomy, shared her wisdom about the upcoming clinical semesters. “Keep an open mind and take advantage of the new experiences and opportunities that will come your way.”
Spencer praised the students for their hard work and encouraged them to look ahead into the next phase of their lives. “As you move forward, you will see that change is the only thing that is constant. Continue to refine your skills, and most importantly look after yourselves. It gives me great pride to know that in just one year’s time I will be able to call you my colleagues.”
Fernanda Castillo, DVSc, assistant professor of pathology, representing the Pathobiology Section, encouraged the students to be relentless in their pursuit of their dream to become a veterinarian. “While studying in St. Kitts you’ve learned to be patient, perseverant and passionate. Never forget what you are made of, because I am confident that as a RUSVM student each of you has what it takes to succeed.”
“I remember clinics vividly, because for me it was an interesting year full of learning, as well as, teaching” said Nicholas Spaccarelli, DVM, assistant professor of small animal medicine, while reflecting on his own experience. Spaccarelli, who represented the Clinical Sciences Section, offered words of inspiration. “If you think you’ve worked hard here [in St. Kitts], you are just scratching the surface. Being a RUSVM graduate is a great accomplishment. Uphold the reputation that precedes you. Be the best of the best!”
Each student was presented a gift, courtesy of RUSVM, which included a stethoscope holder and an instrument set, engraved with their initials, for use throughout their clinical semesters.
“In your time here you have come to learn a lot not only about veterinary medicine but also about who you are and what you are made of,” said Kenyon. “Consider the paths you will take from here on because only you can make that dream of becoming a veterinarian a reality. Congratulations class of 2013!”
About Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
Ross University is a provider of medical and veterinary education, offering Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree programs. Founded in 1982 and located in St. Kitts, West Indies, the School of Veterinary Medicine is accredited by the St. Christopher & Nevis Accreditation Board and the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education to offer the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree program (AVMA COE, 1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173, 847-925-8070). The School of Veterinary Medicine is affiliated with 23 AVMA-accredited U.S. veterinary schools where students complete their clinical year. The University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital is the only facility outside the U.S. and Canada accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association.
Ross University’s administrative offices are located in North Brunswick, NJ. For more information about Ross University, visit www.RossU.edu.
