Just a few years ago, the Vet-Tech club at Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) was created. Now, because of their hard work and passion for bettering the local community, the club holds the title of being the 2018 National Association of Veterinary Technician in America’s (NAVTA) Student Chapter of the Year.
Throughout each semester, the Vet-Tech club hosts various philanthropic events such as park cleanups and clothing drives. They also hold various fundraising events to help raise money for other animal-based organizations. One of these events which was held in the Fall 2018 semester was a car wash during which people could get their cars and their pets a bath.
Another way the club works to give back to the community is by hosting an FFA Invitational. The club invites local high school students who participate in FFA to practice their skills before they head to competition. These are only a few events the club hosts, but their constant commitment to helping people and animals is what sets them apart from other vet-tech clubs.
“The Student Chapter of the Year award is given to a NAVTA student chapter that, among other things, works to promote the field of veterinary technology/nursing and demonstrates involvement in community service. This year’s recipients show a strong commitment to both. The NAVTA board is very pleased to announce that the 2018 Student Chapter of the Year award was awarded to the Texas A&M University SCNAVTA Chapter in Texas,” the NAVTA website said.
The Vet-Tech club is part of the veterinary technology program at TAMUK. For students in or interested in the vet-tech program, they can learn more about the program and become more involved by becoming a member of the club. While the club does benefit students who want to be veterinary technicians, any TAMUK student who loves animals and want to give back to the community can join.
Shyana Rodriguez, an animal science major, has been a part of the club for one semester.
“I love how it’s (Vet-Tech club) super involved. Everybody’s very welcoming, very helpful and there’s a lot of opportunities to get out of your bubble and go experience new things,” Rodriguez said.
Along with receiving the joy of participating in volunteer work, members can also expect to grow personally.
“I’ve gained so much more confidence and more people skills, communication skills and it’s helped me a lot grow as an individual person,” Berenise Valles, the club president said.
After being named the best Vet-Tech club in the nation, the club hopes to continue to grow and will continue its mission of loving animals and helping the community. For anyone interested in joining or learning more about the club, visit their Facebook page @tamukvettclub.