Nazeeya Chowdhury, VG25

Virginia
M.S. in Conservation Medicine ‘25
Animal and Poultry Science, minor Public Health
Virginia Polytech Institute and State University 2024  

Why did you choose to pursue this degree, and why did you choose Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine to pursue this degree?
I’ve always had a passion for animals and their role in keeping our world in balance. Conservation Medicine feels like the perfect mix of my major and minor, giving me the chance to explore how I can make a difference for animals, whether in a veterinary clinic or out in the wild. I chose this school not just because it’s a top school for animal health but also because it offers this unique program.

What are your interests and/or experience relative to conservation medicine?
I am interested in animal behavior and the way they interact with us and their environment. I also have a strong passion for animal welfare and health. After studying abroad at an elephant sanctuary, I got to work alongside people who were focused on rehabilitating elephants that face abuse for human benefit. I was amazed by the elephants’ ability to recover and build trust with their caregivers. It was particularly striking to see how their behavior with each other and their calves was so similar to that of humans. While in Thailand I also saw how much the locals cared for wildlife and how they lived in harmony with the natural world. I would love to learn how we can foster that same harmony between nature and ourselves in more areas and help animals that have been impacted by human activity.

What are your career goals after completing the program?
My current goal is to proceed to veterinary school; however, I am hoping to explore other career options that I can being after completing this program. For the longest time I have wanted to be vet but now I find myself curious about other ways I can help animals.