Northern Oklahoma College Biology/Zoology major Katie Davis is completing an internship this semester with veterinarian and NOC faculty member, Dr. Kurt Campbell. Throughout the internship, she has assisted. Campbell with setup and execution of veterinary procedures. In six weeks, she has worked with cows, bulls, ewes, kids, dogs and owners.
“Being out in the field allows me to gain firsthand knowledge that supports what we are learning in the class room,” said Davis, who is taking anatomy this semester.
Last month she assisted Campbell with dehorning show goats owned by students at Tonkawa High School. After a horn was removed, the frontal sinus cavity became visible. “I learned the location and purpose of the sinuses in Anatomy, but it was an eye-opener to be able to see them firsthand,” she remarked.
Davis believes these experiences will assist her after she graduates from NOC with her associate degree and transfer to Oklahoma State University. She plans to major in Natural Resource Ecology and Management, the Wildlife Biology and Pre-Veterinary option. As a junior, she will apply to OSU’s Veterinary School, expecting to graduate as a large-animal vet.
She credits Campbell for helping her prepare for what’s ahead. “Dr. Campbell keeps me on my toes by continually asking questions that test my previous knowledge, ensures I understand what we are doing and that I learn from it,” she said.
Janitorial and technician jobs at small animal clinics are very common, but with Campbell’s guidance Davis is learning hands-on rather than observing. She said, “Dr. Campbell is an excellent mentor. Not only does he ensure that I am involved in the medicinal process, he asks questions and describes each step to ensure that I fully understand and learn what is happening.”
Davis is a Tonkawa High School graduate and a member of the NOC President’s Leadership Council. She works as a tutor in the college science lab.
“I am very impressed by Katie’s skills working with food animals and her ability to grasp new techniques,” Campbell said. “It is very important for students to job shadow or intern to experience careers firsthand to see if it is a career that they will enjoy.”
Dr. Rae Ann Kruse, dean of academic services at NOC, praised Campbell for being willing to commit time outside the classroom with students. “NOC students receive an outstanding education in our classrooms and benefit from opportunities to participate in hands-on experiences while still in college,” she commented.
For more information about NOC internships, contact Kruse at 580.628.6341.
