August 19, 2021
Media contact: Derinda Blakeney | University of Veterinary Medicine | 405-744-6740 | derinda@okstate.edu
Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine officially welcomed 106 veterinary students of the 2025 grade at an induction ceremony held on Aug. 13 at the McKnight Center on the OSU Stillwater campus.
Two of these students share their thoughts on the upcoming journey to study veterinary medicine.
Alexandra Bingham, of Mesquite, Texas, is a first-generation student, and Will Shelby, of Madill, Oklahoma, is the son of OSU CVM alumnus Dr. Michael Shelby.
“I’ve always wanted to be a vet and I’ve never had a plan B,” said Bingham. “As a child, the animals influenced this decision. As I got older and worked under great doctors in my hometown, I saw the difference they were making in people’s lives and in the world in general Kidney disease, I love medicine and that’s what kept me going. Seeing human doctors work really hard to make sure I’m healthy and living my best life, but I still have the biggest heart for animals, so why not mix the two together? simply the best career for me. ”
“Growing up, I was involved in 4-H and FFA. I’ve shown a lot of animals and developed a passion for taking care of them,” said Shelby. “My father is also a veterinarian for large animals. I saw the difference he made not only for the cattle industry but also for our state and our community I wanted to be a veterinarian.
“I studied at OSU,” continued Shelby. “I think there are a lot of places where you can get any degree and that’s great. But for me, not only in the Bachelor, but especially in the veterinary school, it seems like more than just getting a degree. It almost feels like family to me. There’s a brand I can ride for that has always meant a lot to me. I’ve seen the history of this school and it has been one of my goals since I was a kid. To begin this journey I would be lying if I did. I’m not saying that I was a little scared, but I’m definitely excited. I am ready to start getting to know my classmates and really grow and learn with them over the next few years. ”
“I decided to come to OK State for my DVM because it’s still close to home,” added Bingham. “I’m a family girl, but there is still the opportunity for new adventure, new experiences and I’m really looking forward to it. You have worked so hard your whole life towards one goal and when it is finally within your reach you do it.” don’t know what to do with it. you’re like a kid for christmas it’s like a dream. i want to my husband and family who really helped make this dream come true and the great doctors that i have at home I hope I make everyone proud. ”
Students spent 2 ½ days completing their orientation process, which was sponsored in part by Nestlé Purina. Activities included team building exercises, Examsoft demonstrations and presentations on available wellness resources, financial support and more.
“We look forward to welcoming the class in person,” said Dr. Carlos Risco, Dean of the University of Veterinary Medicine. “These students will be alongside second and third year veterinary students in our recently inaugurated Roger J. Panciera Education Center, a state-of-the-art classroom building equipped with the latest technology and equipment to provide a great learning environment for our undergraduate and faculty faculty. ”
Graduates of the OSU Veterinary Medicine are well prepared for the diverse career opportunities that a veterinary degree offers, be it in private practice, the pharmaceutical industry, military service, science or comparative biomedical research.
The class 2025 consists of 13 males and 93 females. 58 are residents of Oklahoma and 48 represent the states of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia.
This press release was produced by Oklahoma State University. The views expressed here are your own.