(FORT BEND ISD) - Fort Bend ISD students interested in pursuing a career in veterinary science can now enroll in Veterinary Medical Applications, an advanced course in the district’s Career and Technical Education Animal Science Program.
A hands-on lab allows students who complete the course to earn the industry-recognized Licensed Veterinary Technician certification.
Kempner High School senior Jezebel Vargas is currently enrolled in the class.
“I was very excited to learn the district offered this course my senior year,” Vargas said. “This certification will help me accomplish my goal of becoming a veterinarian.”
Whether students decide to further their education after high school or choose to enter the workforce, the certification makes them marketable for college acceptance or starting their career.
Lessons taught in the hands-on lab simulate real world experiences and prepare students for a variety of jobs. Students learn how to administer CPR to animals, prepare medications, assist healthcare practitioners during exams and treatments, administer basic healthcare and maintain medical equipment.
“I believe the hands-on activities enforce our learning and better prepare us for real life practice,” Ridge Point High School senior Carma Monroe said. “I’m so glad this program was offered to me as a supplement to what I’ll be learning in college. I feel way less overwhelmed now.”
Austin High School senior America Hernandez said, “When we do hands-on activities with tools or with the dummy dog "Jerry," I visualize what I will probably do later on, like save a dog’s life.”
The course is offered at FBISD’s Reese Career and Technical Center, which is open to juniors and seniors throughout the district.