University of Kentucky Pre-Veterinary Experience Day Scheduled for February 2027

The University of Kentucky Pre-Veterinary Experience Day is set to take place on February 13, 2027, in the newly constructed Martin-Gatton Agricultural Sciences building. This event, organized by the UK Pre-Veterinary Mentoring Program in collaboration with the Kentucky Horse Council, targets college students aspiring to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

Amber McNamara, co-organizer and head of UK’s pre-veterinary advising program, emphasized that the event will facilitate connections between students, veterinarians, advisors, and industry partners. She noted the positive feedback from last year's event and expressed excitement to welcome more students interested in exploring veterinary medicine.

Participants will have the opportunity to attend different morning sessions based on their level of readiness for veterinary school. Beginners can choose sessions covering introductions to pre-veterinary medicine, veterinary school overviews, and accreditation, while those further along can delve into topics such as application processes, interviews, and evolving requirements.

Additional sessions for all attendees will provide insights into various veterinary career options, application improvement tips, and a panel discussion led by practicing veterinarians on challenges in the field.

After a networking lunch, students can engage in specialized career path explorations focusing on large animal, equine, small animal, and toxicology or pharmacology. Activities will take place at locations including Bluegrass Stockyards, Park Equine Hospital, MedVet Lexington, and the UK Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

Registration opens on October 5 and is expected to fill quickly. The $30 registration fee will cover meals and access to the day’s sessions. The event is open to college students only; high school students are not eligible.

This annual event is typically held on the Saturday before Presidents’ Day. The 2028 experience is set for February 12 and will be geared towards high school students. Event partners include the UK Department of Animal and Food Sciences and UK Ag Equine Programs.

For further details about Pre-Vet Experience Day, including speakers and session topics, visit afs.mgcafe.uky.edu/undergraduate/pre-veterinary-mentoring/pre-vet-experience-day.