VETERINARY STUDENT PRECEPTORSHIP

Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers 6 to 8 week rotations through Veterinary Services for fourth year veterinary students (US vet schools) or last year of veterinary school (non-US schools) at the time of their preceptorship.

Students receive extensive exposure to zoological medicine and veterinary management at Brookfield Zoo Chicago by working with our Veterinary Services Team, mentorship with ACZM Diplomates and through contact with the diverse animal collection of zoological and aquatic species including: megavertebrates, hoofstock, large carnivores, non-human primates, marine mammals, herptiles, birds, fish and small mammals. Students are introduced to and gain clinical experience with veterinary aspects of maintaining captive and free-ranging wildlife including: preventative medicine programs (parasite surveillance, vaccination, tuberculin testing, routine physical exams), quarantine programs (CDC/USDA/APHIS quarantine, import, export and shipping of animals), surgery, clinical pathology, pathology, nutrition, behavioral enrichment, husbandry, and management. Students participate and receive active instruction related to: clinical case management, immobilization/anesthesia, record keeping, on-site advanced imaging (CT, ultrasound, digital radiology), preparation of equipment for procedures, major disciplines of zoological medicine (journal club, rounds/case discussions) and assist with ongoing research projects.

Responsibilities include active participation in all aspects of veterinary medicine and animal management including medical care and treatment, diagnostics/sampling, interpretation of tests, medical records, topic/research assignments, and discussions.

Allied institutions include the University of Illinois (Zoological Medicine Service; Zoological Pathology Program) and the Illinois Zoological and Aquatic Animal Residency Program (a shared program with the University of Illinois and Shedd Aquarium).

Below is the information on how to apply for a rotation. Please submit all materials to veterinary.education@brookfieldzoo.org.   You should apply as soon as possible as these spots fill in quickly. We recommend sending in your application materials in one to two years before your rotation dates.

1) One page cover letter stating your interests in zoological/wildlife medicine, long-term career interests, GPA and class rank;

2) List of three possible time slots, in order of preference (include in cover letter);

3) Curriculum vitae;

4) Two letters of reference.

All applications (and parts thereof) must be submitted electronically to Veterinary.Education@brookfieldzoo.org

Application Deadline

Ongoing, but it is encouraged that application be made at least one to two years prior to proposed dates.

Class Standing
Fourth year veterinary students (US vet schools) or last year of veterinary school (non-US schools) at the time of their preceptorship.

Compensation
None

Housing
None provided but assistance to help find inexpensive housing options available upon request.

Transportation
None provided, parking free.

Insurance
Students must provide their own insurance.

Expenses
No expenses for program participation but students responsible for travel and lodging expenses.

Does Program Include International Applicants?
Yes

Miscellaneous
Applicants from non-English speaking countries: Proof of English proficiency must be provided (TOEFL, IELTS, or First Certificate).  For internet based TOEFL (TOEFL iBT) a minimum of 110 total score is needed.

If you are interested in this opportunity, or have further questions, please send your inquiries to veterinary.education@brookfieldzoo.org.