Students from across the country began a summer camp on Fort Valley State University's campus to learn about veterinary science on June 5.
AgDiscovery, a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) sponsored summer camp is hosting 16 students for two weeks. FVSU is one of 22 universities that participate in the program, which aims to prepare middle, and high school aged students for careers in areas such as animal sciences, agribusiness and aquaculture.
During the program, students live on campus and learn about veterinary science from FVSU professors, local veterinarians, industry representatives and professionals working for the U.S. government.
Some of the scheduled activities for the camp include a field trip to the Georgia Aquarium and the Atlanta Zoo along with hands-on activities at the Georgia Small Ruminant Research and Extension Center located on FVSU’s campus.
Sadie Myers from Clovis, California said she was excited when she learned of her acceptance into the AgDiscovery program at FVSU. The 17-year-old high school graduate said her 4-H counselor told her about the program. “I am beyond excited to be here,” she said.
Rayne Thompson of Clemson, South Carolina, said her teacher referred her to AgDiscovery. “I’ve always wanted to be a veterinarian,” she said. The 15-year-old may consider attending FVSU for a degree in veterinary technology once she graduates high school.
Dr. George McCommon, head of FVSU’s Department of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, said AgDiscovery exposes students to all areas of animal agriculture and veterinary medicine. McCommon, who helps coordinate AgDiscovery at FVSU, said the program provides a well- rounded, hands-on experience. “The visit to the plant inspection building at the Atlanta Airport and the USDA Detector Dog Training Center are always eye opening,” McCommon said.
Participants of the AgDiscovery program are selected by meeting specific criteria to include the completion of an essay and submission of three letters of recommendation. For more information about AgDiscovery, visit the USDA AgDiscovery Program website at: http://bit.ly/2jzXva3.