Sophia Sarlo, VG26

Connecticut
M.S. in Conservation Medicine ‘26
Animal Science
University of Connecticut 2024

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 an MS in Conservation Medicine degree with the initial intent of later becoming a wildlife/aquatic veterinarian. The knowledge and skills I will gain from this degree will either supplement my future career as a vet, so I can better understand the ecology and biology of my patients and how their lives fit into a more global context; or, it will open my eyes to other careers in conservation medicine where I can help and advocate for animals in other ways. Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine came to mind first when thinking of where to get this degree due to its prominence in the world of wildlife medicine, conservation, and research. I have worked with several veterinarians who either earned their D.V.M. or completed post-grad internships at Cummings School, and I always appreciated the intricate knowledge they passed to me from their time here.

What are your interests and/or experience relative to conservation medicine?
Most of my experience in conservation medicine comes from an internship I completed at the Cape Wildlife Center. I was able to learn from Dr. Priya Patel and her staff about the creativity involved in wildlife medicine through observing surgeries and turtle shell repairs, and discussing current topics in conservation. I had major responsibilities as an intern at the CWC, such as tube feeding baby mammals, administering medications to various species, and assisting with rescues and releases. I have also completed an animal care internship at Connecticut’s only AZA-accredited zoo, and I have nearly 3 years of experience as a companion animal vet tech, which has supported my understanding of animal medical concepts and epidemiology/One Health. Currently, my interests in this field are widespread, but include anticoagulant rodenticide toxicity in both raptors and companion animals; avian influenza, particularly its recent emergence in aquatic mammals; anthropogenic threats to aquatic animals, such as sound pollution, shark finning, etc.; and emergency response/ICU veterinary care for distressed wild/aquatic animals.

What are your career goals after completing the program?
After completing the MCM program, I ideally plan to go to vet school and become a wildlife/aquatic veterinarian, but as of right now, I am also open to other conservation-related career pathways that MCM may offer to me. I am interested in exploring careers in research or law related to animal welfare and conservation.