How our vet helped a struggling student achieve her dreams

Elsa Massey
Vet
Leeds Colton Vets for Pets

The context

I have been a long standing student at this practice, before attending vet school, while at vet school and now as a new grad vet in the practice. Elsa has been my mentor since the first day of arrival, guiding me, nuturing me and assisting me to be the vet I have always wanted to be. I have not had the easiest journey to acheiving my dream, both of my parents have disabilities and I have had to sacrifice a great number of years to caring for them while putting aside my aspirations. Applying to be a vet is incredibly stressful and competitive and I was coming into the industry a lot later than others, so had less of a support system.

The action

When starting my journey Elsa was the most compassionate and supportive person, helping me organise my finances, creating a schedule and being a shoulder to cry on. She encouraged and supported my dream while teaching me a wealth of knowledge with kindness. She assisted me in looking at different schools and programs, helped me create a personal statement and never asked for anything in return. She prioritised my happiness and success, when I was down and pessimistic she was the one who pulled me out from those dark waters.

The ripple effect

After the unwavering support and encouragement she showed, I gained a place at Bristol university to begin my dream, but her support did not stop there. She mentored me throughout vet school, both pastorally and educationally. In the moments where I strugled mentally and emotionally she was the first person I would call and she always had time for me. I am now a working veterinary surgeon, Elsa has continued to support and teach me through the graduate program and still continues to do so to this day. I would not be the vet I am or even the person I am without Elsa, I do believe she wholeheartedly deserves this award as I have not known a more compassionate vet, mentor or person. I carry a piece of Elsa in me through every consultation and I hope to become half the vet she is.

Voting opens 13 November.