Veterinary Assistant Student of the Month: Ashley Conolly

Student of the Month

Veterinary Assistant Ashley Conolly

Ashley Conolly lives in Franklin, Indiana. She is a full-time student and single mother of three, and works at Sun Tan City. Ashley has always had a passion for animals and has quite a few pets of her own. Ashley loves to spend time outdoors with her children and animals.

What prompted you to become a veterinary assistant? Was there a specific event, circumstance or person who inspired you to pursue this career?

I have always had an innate love for animals. Therefore, there have been many inspirations throughout my life. However, the local low-cost vet care clinic that my family went to was a huge inspiration for me. They provide vet services for those who can’t afford care. I asked the doctor what made him work so hard seven days a week and for so little. He said if he didn’t do it, no one would. It inspired me to help animals in need that may not be as fortunate as others and that is when I decided this was the field for me.

How did you hear about the Veterinary Assistant Program and what convinced you to become certified?

I read about the program online and realized how flexible the program is. I am a single mom with three kids and I also work. I needed a program that I could do on my own time and no other veterinary assistant program could do that for me.

What has your experience been like in the veterinary assistant school?

My experience at Animal Behavior College has truly opened the door into the animal field for me. I realized how much I love this field and I am now enrolled at The Vet Tech Institute. I feel like I am better prepared than other students in the technician program due to my ABC education.

What has been your most rewarding moment during your externship?

Anytime I had a part in saving an animal that was on the verge of life or death was a rewarding moment for me. Nothing could be more rewarding than helping to save the life of an animal.

If you could work with any exotic animal, what would it be and why?

I have always loved mountain animals. I would love to work with grizzly bears, mountain lions and bobcats. I know they can be dangerous, but they are still fascinating.