Name: Chris
Role Title: Veterinarian (Partner, Tatura Veterinary Clinic)
Location:Tatura

Description of work undertaken: Chris provides a variety of veterinary services to animal industries (predominantly cattle and horses) and companion animals. Team and / or individual role / responsibilities: Chris is one of four partners in an eight-vet practice, involving two campuses, one at Tatura and Mooroopna. A farming background influenced Chris's career choice of Veterinary Science

Future?
In the future Chris will have an expanding role with the production of high quality drug and chemical free food products for animals. He will also readily monitor and advise animal welfare issues associated with intensive animal production.

BACKGROUND:
Grew up where?
Chris grew up in Rochester, Victoria, where a farming background primarily influenced his career choice of Veterinary Science.

Course(s) studied:
Tertiary /post secondary:
Chris studied Veterinary Science.

Work experience:
Prior to attending university, Chris gained experience as a farm hand, where he worked for twelve months. There were no work experience programs offered through the secondary school he attended.

OPPORTUNITIES:
Further study:
Chris has completed numerous Post-Graduate short courses which are necessary for continuing a veterinary registration.

Learning on job, new skills, etc.
Due to increasing use of technology, Chris is required to carry out on-going learning and develop new skills in the area of ultrasound, endoscopy, and pharmaceutics.

Travel, etc.
Chris believes there are many opportunities for work and study in other countries.

ADVICE TO STUDENTS NOW:
students up to Year 10
Chris suggests that students should utilise work experience programs offered at secondary school effectively and gain as much experience as possible.

VCE students
Chris believes that students should explore all course entry methods at all Vet Schools/Institutions (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Murdoch). Students should also be prepared to travel interstate and utilise holidays for work in vet clinics, farms, animal shelters and wildlife refuges.

OTHER:
What careers have other graduates from your course entered?
Graduates from Chris' course have entered careers such as Management, Finance, Consultancy, Teaching, Research, Aquaculture and Government.