Written by Alexis Irvin
Edited by Tanishia Jeboda, Senior Editor for BlackDVM Network
Original Date Posted: September 18, 2020
Many veterinarians would agree that technicians play an important role in the hospital setting by providing valuable support, knowledge and enthusiasm. Kiah Woodberry, a licensed veterinary technician in Virginia Beach, Virginia, not only cherishes her role working in surgery, but uses it as motivation to continue to learn more about the field of veterinary medicine. After graduating from Blue Ridge Community College, Kiah immediately began working in a specialty hospital which helped her to discover a passion for surgery and other areas of the field such as physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Read below to find out more about Kiah’s journey and why she decided to become a veterinary technician!
Who inspired you to be a veterinary technician?Â
My grandmother, Andrea Ramsey, was really into animals and is the reason I have been fascinated with animals my whole life. She is largely the inspiration behind me pursuing and continuing a career in veterinary medicine.
What are some of your passions outside of being involved in veterinary medicine?
Outside of working as a technician, I really enjoy reading and use it as a way to relax and wind down. I also enjoy baking and trying different recipes and decorations! Gardening has also been a hobby I have picked up lately. I now have a small vegetable garden that I spend time tending to. And of course, I love hanging out with my veterinary family.
Do you have any mentors who have helped you throughout your journey to becoming a technician? If so, how did they impact your journey?
Throughout my journey, there have been many fellow technicians that have helped me to shape and grow my knowledge of the field. I have worked at a specialty hospital since I graduated from tech school and the technicians and surgeons I’ve worked alongside have taught me more than I could have hoped for.
What are your interests in veterinary medicine? How has it changed over the years if at all?
My interests as a technician mostly involve surgery. Since I started working in the surgery department, my interests have expanded to include canine rehabilitation and I am now in the CCRP program* at the University of Tennessee!
What are three pieces of advice you would give to anyone of color looking to pursue this field?
For anyone interested in this field, my best advice is to gain as much experience as you can. Find people or a person who you feel comfortable with and confide in them your interests and goals. Throughout the process though, never forget why you decided to go into veterinary medicine.
*The CCRP (certified canine rehabilitation practitioner) program offered by the University of Tennessee allows interested students to complete online, e-learning courses and take an examination on the material. After passing the exam, students will receive the title of Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner. If interested, visit the following website to learn more: https://www.u-tenn.org/
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