Page 116 - 50th Alumni Success Stories Book

Dr. Terry Beatty I grew up in a medical environment as my dad was
a Navy doctor and my mom was a nurse. I ended up
Veterinary Assistant Program getting a bachelor’s degree in biology and after working
Seattle Campus for a time in construction, decided my love of animals
was prompting me to pursue a career in the veterinary
Graduated 1994 field. I heard about Pima Medical Institute and liked the
idea that I would get experience in the field through the
Veterinary Assistant (VA) program.

My time at Pima Medical was an

opportunity and a doorway into the

veterinary world.

I still remember my first day of the VA program when my
instructor looked at me and said, “You have a degree
and are way overqualified for this.” I explained I wanted
to learn the basics of caring for animals and get hands-
on experience. It’s been more than 25 years and that
instructor and I are still in touch. She always told us, “I can
teach you how to do a procedure correctly, but it’s more
important to teach you the WHY.” I still emphasize this
and repeat it often to my staff.

In 2002, while working as a Veterinary Assistant, I earned
my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. I currently
have my own clinic and have had externs and hired
graduates from Pima Medical over the years. They still
offer a very good program and teach the basics.
My time at Pima Medical was an opportunity and a
doorway into the veterinary world. I am a great example
that it’s not always about grades. If you have passion
and are willing to work hard, you can accomplish your
goals. My mom always told me, “As long as you are
doing something you love, you’ll be happy!”

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