A former biomedical science scholar from HHS, Allison Wood, has recently been accepted into the prestigious Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. This incredible achievement is a testament to her dedication, perseverance, and passion for veterinary medicine.
Allison graduated from HHS in 2022, where she excelled both academically and athletically. She was a Governor’s Scholar, participated in work-based learning at Skyline Animal Clinic, and was a standout athlete, playing soccer and running track and cross country. Her commitment to excellence continued at Murray State University, where she majored in Pre-Veterinary Medicine and minored in Chemistry.
At Murray State, Allison took full advantage of a curriculum rich in veterinary-focused courses, including Pharmacology, Small Animal Diseases, and Animal Reproductive Physiology. She balanced her rigorous academic workload while competing as a Division I athlete on the cross country and track teams.
Beyond the classroom, Allison actively engaged in hands-on experiences and leadership roles. She conducted research on Cabin1 transcription regulator function in the brain of zebrafish and presented her findings at a conference in January 2025. She also served as the public relations officer for the MSU Vet Tech/Pre-Vet Club and was an Honors College student who studied abroad in Mexico. Additionally, her honors thesis focused on student perspectives in an introductory animal science course.
Allison’s journey to veterinary school included invaluable real-world experiences. She started gaining veterinary experience as a senior in high school through a co-op at Skyline Animal Clinic. She continued to build her expertise by shadowing veterinarians at Todd County Animal Clinic and Logan Bethel Veterinary Services, where she expanded her knowledge of large animal care. During the summer of 2024, she interned at the Dickerson Park Zoo Veterinary Hospital, working with various zoo animals and participating in their raptor rehabilitation program. She also gained emergency veterinary experience by shadowing at Clarksville Veterinary Emergency Clinic.
Her leadership extended beyond the veterinary field as well. Allison worked as a Head Lifeguard at Bluegrass Splash for two summers, showcasing her ability to manage responsibilities and demonstrate strong leadership skills.
Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine is highly competitive, admitting only 130 students per year, with 38 seats designated for Kentucky residents. The application process is rigorous, requiring submission through the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) by mid-September, interviews in January, and final acceptances in early February. Auburn’s program includes three years of coursework and one year of clinical rotations, culminating in the NAVLE board exam during the senior year to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) license.
Allison Wood’s journey is an inspiring example of hard work and dedication paying off. Her acceptance into Auburn’s vet school is a remarkable milestone, and we look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish in the field of veterinary medicine. Congratulations, Allison!
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