Hi, I'm Syd

Animals have always held an important place in my life, but my understanding of what it means to care for them professionally developed through a series of formative experiences. During my undergraduate studies, I sought out opportunities that allowed me to understand animal care from multiple perspectives; clinical, research, and educational.

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My early hands-on experience began at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, where I assisted with surgical preparation, instrument sterilization, and post-operative animal monitoring. I later gained additional anatomical and observational experience through work with the Marine Mammal Pathology Lab of St. Petersburg, participating in necropsies and recording biological data. I also spent time at The Florida Aquarium as an educator, where I communicated animal behavior and conservation concepts to guests of all ages. These early experiences allowed me to build confidence, technical awareness, and a deep respect for the human–animal bond.

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For the past three years, I have been working as a Veterinary Assistant in a small animal general practice, where I have had the privilege of developing strong technical and practical skills. I have assisted with examinations, anesthesia monitoring, sample collection, diagnostics, client communication, and daily patient care. Working closely with both pets and the families who love them has solidified my commitment to accessible, compassionate veterinary medicine. This role has been central to shaping who I am as a professional and has reinforced, every day, why I am pursuing this field.

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On a personal level, my journey was profoundly influenced by the adoption of Abel, my senior Labrador Retriever. His gentle personality, resilience, and unconditional love made the importance of veterinary care deeply personal to me. Caring for him throughout his senior years has been a privilege and the clearest reminder of why the bond between animals and their families matters so much.

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Today, as I continue pursuing my Master of Science in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a concentration in Shelter Medicine, I remain grounded in compassion, curiosity, and dedication. My experiences have guided me toward a future where I can support both animals and the people who care for them with empathy, respect, and evidence-based practice.