Each year, TVMF hosts annual Lunch & Learn events for veterinary students at both the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (TAMU-VMBS) and the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine (TTU-SVM) to connect students with experienced veterinary professionals for conversations about career development, leadership, community involvement and life after graduation.

This year’s TAMU-VMBS event featured an accomplished panel of veterinary professionals who shared insights from their diverse career paths and experiences in the profession:

• Dr. Tannetje Crocker
• Dr. Nancy Carter
• Dr. Stacy Eckman

Structured as an interactive discussion and Q&A session, the Lunch & Learn encouraged students to ask candid questions about both the professional and personal aspects of veterinary medicine. Conversations ranged from career preparation and confidence-building as a new graduate to balancing charitable work, community service and personal well-being.

Students asked thoughtful and important questions including:

• What advice would you give a new graduate pursuing small animal medicine?
• How has your career pivoted since graduating from veterinary school?
• How do you manage your time while practicing and being in leadership positions?
• How long did it take to feel confident in practice after graduation?
• How can veterinarians help clients facing financial limitations while still providing quality care?
• What are effective ways to provide low-cost services in rural communities without negatively impacting nearby practices?
• How do veterinarians balance charitable work within their practice and personal lives?
• What types of community involvement have been most meaningful throughout your career?
• How can veterinarians stay engaged locally while maintaining work-life balance?

The discussion provided students with practical guidance and honest perspectives about the realities of veterinary medicine beyond the classroom. Panelists emphasized the importance of mentorship, community engagement, adaptability and finding sustainable ways to serve both clients and the profession.

One of the strongest themes throughout the event was the idea that veterinarians can make meaningful contributions far beyond clinical medicine. The panelists shared personal stories about leadership, volunteerism, mentorship and community engagement, encouraging students to think broadly about the impact they can make throughout their careers.

TVMF is grateful to Drs. Crocker, Carter and Eckman for generously sharing their time, experiences and wisdom with the next generation of veterinary professionals. Programs like the Lunch & Learn series continue to strengthen connections between students and practitioners while supporting the future of the veterinary profession in Texas.

We also thank the TAMU-VMBS students who participated and contributed such thoughtful questions and discussion. Their engagement and curiosity continue to make this annual program a meaningful experience for everyone involved.

If you are a TVMA member interested in serving as a panel speaker for a future Lunch & Learn event, we would love to hear from you. Please contact TVMF to learn more about opportunities to get involved and support veterinary students across Texas.