Externship Program for Veterinary Students

Greetings! 

I'm Joe Rusk, Senior Talent Acquisition Partner, at Lakefield Veterinary Group.  With over 28 years of vet med experience across Specialty, ER, and GP hospitals, I certainly understand the importance of having mentors, coaches, and simply time to practice skills and “get comfortable" in the doctor & leader role.  We have some great opportunities for externships so you can do all those things… 

Externships – Our externship program is open to current veterinary students and typically spans 1-2 weeks, which can be completed in any year of your veterinary education. Currently, we provide a stipend ($500 per week) for students that are within 12 months of graduating veterinary school (ie:  clinical year). We will arrange externships at hospitals or clinics that match your interests and location. Veterinary students in years 1-3 can also schedule externships if a willing hospital or clinic is available.  We have a limited number of hospitals that offer housing in lieu of weekly pay.  

With over 75 locations across the United States, you have a number of opportunities. Whether your interest is in General Practice, Emergency Medicine, Specialty, or even Mixed Animal or Equine, there is a myriad of options.

This is a paid externship for fourth year students (or students within one year of graduation) and the opportunity to shape your own path as a veterinarian through our mentorship program. 

Mentorship - We understand that one mentorship model doesn't fit all, which is why we create personalized programs. These programs may include regular check-ins with senior members, the possibility of visiting other area hospitals for specific training or bringing in outside experts to hone your skills. Our mentorship will help you: 

• Develop tools to contribute to a healthy workplace culture
• Build confidence in taking on challenging cases with enthusiasm
• Learn skills not taught in vet school to drive good medicine
• Learn skills to keep the "why" alive in your professional journey
• Coaching in veterinary financial literacy and management
• Learn from Lakefield mentors/doctors with advanced medicine, surgery, & dentistry skills.
• Create New Graduate groups for additional CE, leadership training, & general check-ins

GIVING BACK - At Lakefield Veterinary Group, we recognize the importance of community involvement in promoting the well-being of animals that enrich our lives. Our mission is to create, deliver, and support programs that foster healthy relationships between pets and people, encompassing community outreach, education, and services. We're committed to making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Each year, we contribute to local charities through our Unleash Joy program, and we have a tradition of sending Lakefield team members to other countries to assist animals in need through our partnership with World Vets. 

Associate Veterinarian Opportunities after Externship – We have openings for an opportunity at one of our many locations across the U.S. Look at our career page: careers.lakefieldvet.com for our externship offerings. Please feel free to email & schedule a call with me to explore any of our programs.  I am here to address any questions or interests you may have. Once again, thank you for your interest in Lakefield Veterinary Group! 

Warmest Regards, 

Joe Rusk