“Eckerd provided a diverse range of opportunities that allowed me to explore my interests, build practical skills, and learn from incredibly supportive mentors who guided me through both the highs and lows of my journey,” she says.
Now, Meberg is focused on where her path leads next. After graduating from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, she hopes to pursue a career as a mixed animal veterinarian in a rural community, where access to care can be limited.
“I am particularly passionate about science communication and hope to make veterinary medicine more approachable for clients by clearly explaining the reasoning behind diagnoses, treatments and preventative care,” she says. “Ultimately, I want to improve both animal welfare and client understanding, ensuring that owners feel informed, supported and empowered in their animals’ care.”
Walker is charting her own course as well. She plans to begin in farm animal medicine before eventually transitioning into wildlife conservation and rehabilitation, whether through nonprofit organizations, zoos or aquariums.
“Regardless of where I end up,” she says, “I hope to maintain a work-life balance where I can still travel and think outside, which is exactly what I learned from my time at Eckerd.”