Large Animal Lover at Heart
Where are you from?
I spent my childhood and teenage years in the Capital of Belgium, Brussels.
Share your academic journey to becoming a veterinarian.
I started my Bachelor's in Brussels before doing my Master's in Veterinary Medicine at the University of Liège, Belgium. I graduated in 2016, worked first in Belgium, then traveled to gain more experience by learning at the highest level possible.
How did you come to Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine?
The Invisible Hand of the Residency Match was decided, and I'm happy with the result. New England is quite close to my home country in terms of culture and patience, but it also has the added benefit of seeing the sun much more regularly!
What has surprised you during your tenure here?
Patience. We have incredible mentors who are incredibly patient with sometimes reluctant horses. They take their time to explain procedures in detail to both owners while making the students part of the caregiving team at each step.
What do you hope to do after completing your time at Cummings School?
Go on saving large animals with the high level of care that Tufts thrives to apply.
Share an experience from your time at Cummings School that stands out to you?
Our incredible nurses (besides being the best support we could hope for) always strive to go above and beyond. They consistently remind us that we don't need to take ourselves seriously while doing serious work. Our patients are their canvas, and bandages are an excuse for creativity. Sometimes, bringing old kids' clothing, you can't help laughing at an obese goat in a cartoon pajama.
What brings you joy professionally?
Solving a lameness that has been a mystery for months. Working with multiple teams. Planning a surgery after visualizing a fracture with a radiologist ultrasonographer and then discussing the pain relief plan with the anesthesiologist. Giving the first hand full of grass to a post-op colic. Seeing the excitement and fear in a student's eyes when you guide them through a procedure and the happiness when it is a success.