AAMU Students Selected for Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program

Five Alabama A&M students took part in the Doctors in Italy Pre-Vet Fellowship this summer. The program is designed for students in animal science, biology, public health, and similar fields with interest in veterinary medicine. Students from across the country were selected for an immersive eight-day placement at clinics, sanctuaries, and rescue centers, shadowing veterinarians during exams and surgeries.

“This was an amazing opportunity for me," said Gianni Martin. "My fellowship was in Milan, where I learned about different aspects of veterinary medicine including animal nutrition and behavior, clinical skills, and caretaking in both a sanctuary setting and a clinical one."

This is the first year AAMU students have participated. Along with hands-on workshops, clinical case discussions and interactive lectures, students also immersed in the culture of their host sites. The five animal bio-health sciences majors worked in the following cities:

Recent graduate Kiah Blake – Florence, Italy
Sophomore Denae Washington – Perugia, Italy
Sophomore Layla Snow – Perugia, Italy
Sophomore Taniya Hunter – Milan & Florence, Italy
Recent graduate Gianni Martin – Milan, Italy

“We spent several days touring cities and historical sites," said Kiah Blake. "We took group trips to Siena and Pisa. I also took a solo trip to Milan and traveled to the beautiful beaches in Cinque Terre."

“Opting to shadow on the other side of the world in a new country, culture, and foreign language requires considerable courage," said Lisa Ferraro, Country Operations Manager at the Doctors in Italy Fellowship Programs. "We admire the students' commitment to growth by stepping out of their comfort zones and their dedication to international education."

The Doctors in Italy Fellowship Program includes two other shadowing programs for students who want to become healthcare professionals.

“We encourage our students to apply for internships, not only to enhance their skills and understanding of content learned in the classroom, but to ensure they receive hands-on training that builds confidence in the field they are pursuing,” said Dr. Lisa Dalrymple, AAMU Research Associate, collaborating under the direction of Dr. Jorge Vizcarra (PI), Professor and ABHS Program Coordinator. 

Learn more: https://shadow.doctorsinitaly.com/