Welcome back to the herd: Alexandra Uden, A10, V20

A native of the United Kingdom with a pair of degrees from Tufts University, Alex Uden (she/her/hers), A10, V20, was appointed in July as assistant clinical professor in small ruminant ambulatory medicine in the Department of Ambulatory Medicine and Theriogenology at Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine.

After earning a D.V.M. from Cummings School two years ago, Uden joined Tufts Veterinary Field Service (TVFS) in Woodstock, Connecticut. She completed a one-year internship program then continued with TVFS as a staff veterinarian, teaching students in the field while they interned or served during their clinical rotation.

“I like teaching students at Tufts and this faculty position provided an opportunity to expand the type of teaching that I can do,” Uden says. “Working in the field I enjoyed watching students develop their clinical skills, but I was seeking involvement in the didactic work as well.

“Teaching students helps me to keep learning as well. They ask questions and keep me on my toes. To be an effective teacher you need to keep pushing yourself to improve.”

With a primary clinical interest in small ruminant medicine, the new teaching position aligned well with her experience and ambitions. “I’m involved in dairy and equine as well, but I focus on small ruminants,” she shares. 

Uden earned a B.A. in international relations and global health from Tufts in 2010. “As a Tufts alum I have a vested interest in the institution, its ability to produce capable veterinarians, and to give back by helping teach the next generation of clinicians. I also have fantastic colleagues and enjoy the combination of the work and the community that Tufts offers. We have a great crew at the field service, and I like being a part of the team.”

Clinically, Uden looks forward to working with Dr. Rachael Gately who has become the school’s expert in small ruminants. “I’m excited to work with her to expand the program and offer services to more clients,” she contends. 

This year, Uden is honored to serve as a co-director of the TVFS internship program and will mentor interns through it. She also plans to develop as an instructor by taking courses offered by Tufts to assist teachers in honing their craft. Uden admits, “I’m excited to get started and to become more entrenched in the faculty community.”