Veterinary Extern - General Practice

Externship Experience

An externship experience at an NVA hospital will give students the unique opportunity to understand the day‑to‑day operations of the practice, and to gain valuable hands‑on clinical experience. Each NVA hospital is unique, but all share a supportive environment, commitment to excellent medicine, and exceptional service to animals and their owners.

Students work closely with the supervising veterinarian to gain experience in gathering patient histories, performing physical exams, creating treatment plans, diagnostics, dentistry services, observing/assisting or performing surgical procedures, and medical management of patients. In addition, externs practice communication skills with the medical team, support staff, and clients.

Externship experiences typically range from two to eight weeks, depending on student and hospital schedules. All veterinary students, regardless of class year, are encouraged to participate in NVA externships.