Vet work in the African bush is a completely different experience to work in a European clinic. I have come home with new skills, incredible memories, and friends for life.
The most amazing thing about the whole trip is that I felt that in some small way, I made a real difference in conservation.
The whole experience with ACE has made me realise that I want to go into wildlife conservation whether it's based in the UK or internationally.
I would definitely travel with ACE again, and I’d love to volunteer at the variety of projects that they work with in the future! I feel like I could return time and time again and never stop learning.
We got to assess all of the radiographs with the Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick for cranial cruciate ligament disease. It was so, so special, and my timing was just incredible and both the orphanage and Noel were amazing throughout.
During my first consultation they helped me choose a project that would fit my own personal interests and goals. ACE guided me every step of the way. It’s not common for an organisation that arranges international experiences to be so involved with the person.
I chose to participate in the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience because I am currently a pre-veterinary student in university and wanted to gain hands-on experience with wildlife veterinary medicine – and that is exactly what I got, so much hands-on experience!
If there’s one thing that I hope someone gets out of this, is that if you are considering going, but you are nervous, DO IT ANYWAY! This was the best experience of my life and so eye opening! I would go again in a heartbeat.