A Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ student was elected vice president of a national pre-veterinary student group, while another was awarded a $1,000 scholarship by the organization.
Michelle Vera Perez, a senior animal science student (right in the photo above), will serve as vice president of the American Pre-Veterinary Medical Association (APVMA) in the 2025-26 academic year.
APVMA is a national organization of pre-veterinary students that promotes and stimulates interest in the field of veterinary medicine. It consists of more than 85 college and university clubs across the nation.
Perez was elected at the APVMA Symposium, which was held at Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tenn., March 14-15.
At the symposium, Iris Garcia, another senior (photo below), was awarded the One Health Scholarship, which recognizes students who demonstrate a passion for the One Health Initiative – an approach that connects human health with animal health and the environment.
Thirty-three Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ students attended this year’s symposium, which allowed them to network with veterinary professionals, veterinary school admission representatives, and other pre-vet students from around the country.
Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ pre-vet students have represented the university well at the APVMA.
Last year, the Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Pre-Vet Club was named the APVMA’s outstanding club for 2023-24.
Three students were elected APVMA officers in 2023-24, serving as president, vice president, and webmaster. It was the second consecutive year that a Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ student served as APVMA president.
In addition, Dr. Kathleen Earle, a lecturer and Cal Poly ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Pre-Vet Club advisor, was named the APVMA’s 2022-23 Advisor of the Year.