News
Transition Ceremony Signifies Progress in Veterinary Education
08/20/11
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts—On Thursday, August 11, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) held its seventh Transition Ceremony to celebrate the progress of its seventh semester students as they move toward their clinical semesters in the United States. The ceremony symbolizes the transition that takes place as the students complete their didactic training in St. Kitts and begin their clinical semesters in the United States. The students will complete their clinical studies at one of twenty-two Ross affiliated AVMA-accredited US veterinary schools.
Presided by Mark D. Freeman, DVM, assistant professor of small animal surgery, the ceremony honored the Class of 2012 and conveyed the importance of professionalism and the academic training the students received while completing their didactic training.
“This is a special day, a ceremonial celebration, said Gilbert Burns, DVM, interim dean of RUSVM. “As you move into your clinical year, remember this celebration and remember that attitude plays an important part in your success. Be the first person in the room, not the last. Be ready for anything and more importantly make us proud.”
Faculty members from the three sections of the program spoke to the students providing encouraging words. Representing the Structure and Function Section, Shari Lanning, DVM, PhD, assistant professor of anatomy, shared her top five things students should know in clinics. Naturally, her number one was “know your anatomy,” but she also included the importance of a positive attitude and clear communication skills in her list.
“Studying in St. Kitts you’ve learned to be adaptable and those ‘only in St. Kitts’ moments will prove to be important for you later,” said Robin Fio Rito, DVM, assistant professor, representing the Clinical Sciences Department.
Amanda Loftis, DVM, PhD, assistant professor of infectious disease, representing the Pathobiology Section, encouraged the students to learn lessons both bad and good, but most importantly, “be willing to learn.” Loftis shared stories from her career and reminded the students to be adaptable.
Students receive a stethoscope holder and an instrument set, engraved with their initials, for use throughout their clinical semesters.
“There have been a lot of challenges along the way, but look at what you’ve accomplished,” said Freeman, as he closed the ceremony. “Within just a few short weeks you will begin seeing patients. We are very proud of you.”
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 22 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.
