McKenzie Langford, VG25

Germany / Maryland
M.S. in Conservation Medicine ‘25
General Studies, minors Geology and Anthropology
College of Charleston 2021

Why did you choose to pursue this degree, and why did you choose Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine to pursue this degree?
I chose to pursue the Conservation Medicine degree because of its increasing relevance and importance due to the ongoing climate crisis. My educational background is deeply rooted in environmental sciences; however, I am also incredibly passionate about veterinary medicine and large-scale animal health. The One Health approach embraced by Tuft's MCM program will undoubtedly further my understanding of the interconnectedness between animals, humans, and the planet.

What are your interests and/or experience relative to conservation medicine?
Planetary and animal health has always been very important to me and has guided me in all of my education and career choices. Throughout my undergraduate degree, I assisted in geologic and environmental research projects in India and Iceland. These amazing opportunities exposed me to very different viewpoints regarding animals, humans, and the environment. However, I decided to explore small animal medicine after obtaining my degree. While I have enjoyed working as a veterinary neurology/surgery anesthetist for the last 7 years, I would like to be able to combine my love for veterinary medicine and climate crisis mitigation.

What are your career goals after completing the program?
I am very excited to be exposed to different career opportunities in the One Health field, as well as potentially further my education through a D.V.M. or Ph.D. program.