September 23, 2010—Basseterre, St. Kitts—Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) in partnership with Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC) hosted eleven students during its summer 2010 internship program.  The program provides practical work experience for students to gain technical skills in the specific area assigned.
 
“The internship program has provided Ross University an opportunity to continue its outreach in the St. Kitts and Nevis community, creating mutually beneficial relationships,” said Hazarie Ramoutar, campus administrator for RUSVM.  “Not only is Ross gaining additional assistance, the program is enabling these students to gain skills, which will assist them in future careers.  In fact, many of these students have been employed by our school and other large St. Kitts business entities, due in part, because of their experience, as interns, at Ross University Vet School.”
 
Throughout the ten-week program, between June and August, students are assigned to various departments on the RUSVM campus—everything from veterinary labs, such as anatomy and diagnostic services, to administrative departments, such as human resources, facilities, and information technology.  In addition to their department assignment, the students participate in weekly professional development seminars designed to expand skills such as, interview, social, professionalism, and time management.  Senior members of the Ross University staff serve as presenters during the sessions.  Interns find these sessions interactive, timely and relevant to their career initiatives
 
“The Ross University Vet School’s Internship Program has really assisted my self-development at both a personal and professional level,” said Tsephonie Warner, first year CFBC student of Office Administration and Business Management  “Most internship programs just allow persons to put into practice what they learn in the classroom.  At Ross, I was able to practice skills from my education, but also obtain ‘real world’ skills and knowledge that will be beneficial to me as I continue my journey in life.”
 
At the conclusion of the internship, students are presented a certificate and specially designed shirt to signify the completion of the program.  RUSVM has been collaborating with CFBC for about six years—the collaboration includes internships for college students and the provision of equipment for the information technology department at CFBC.
 
Warner continued, “Not only do you gain information and experience at Ross but to me it's like I gained a different family outside of my household. The atmosphere and the employees at Ross are very friendly creating a conducive, productive working environment. I am very grateful for the friends I made, the experiences I received and the time I spent at Ross.”
 
About Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
Ross University is a provider of medical and veterinary education, offering doctor of medicine and doctor of veterinary medicine degree programs. Founded in 1982 and located in St. Kitts, the School of Veterinary Medicine is affiliated with 22 AVMA-accredited US veterinary schools where students complete their clinical year. The University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital is the only facility outside the US and Canada accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association.  Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine is committed to improving the well-being of people and animals in the St. Kitts and Nevis community through service, education and research.
 
For more information about Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, visit www.RossU.edu.