Kat is part of first veterinary technician cohort at Great Falls College. She just completed the certificate of technical studies in Veterinary Office, which serves as the prerequisites for the Veterinary Technician degree.
Home: Billings, originally from Lake Oswego, Oregon.
What drew you to the veterinary technician program?
I have been working in veterinary and shelter medicine, as well as in pet care, for the last three years. I grew up riding horses, participating in local and statewide competitions with my varsity equestrian team, and 4-H with an emphasis in hippology. I moved to Montana to pursue an education in equestrian studies and soon realized I had a passion for veterinary medicine and began pursuing a career as a veterinary technician. Every little girl dreams of becoming a veterinarian. What they don’t realize is that the veterinary technicians are the real superheroes. We get to do all the fun stuff.
Tell us about yourself.
My life currently revolves around my wife, Maggie; my dog, Froggy; my reptiles, and beloved cats, Ladybug, Mr. Beanz, Fig Newton, Salami Mami and Tonka Truck.
And tell us about your educational journey.
I hold my certificate of technical studies in Veterinary Office from Great Falls College and an AAS in General Studies from Montana State University in Billings. I also proudly hold my Fear Free Veterinary Professional Certification, along with certifications in Pet Nutrition and Wellness from the Hill’s Veterinary Academy and Pet First Aid through the American Red Cross.
What do you do outside of work and school?
When I am not studying or working, I work with my dog and we serve together as a local USSAR therapy dog team, I do a lot of dog training for fun as well, as Froggy is a trained service dog to assist with POTS and PTSD.
What has your experience at Great Falls College been like?
Doing my schooling online through Great Falls College has allowed me to put my career and family first. The program is still very thorough and in depth. Despite being asynchronous, our professors have been working hard to make sure we have all of the resources we need locally with our Veterinary Partners. I truly feel that distance learning has been a huge benefit of the program as it allows for more flexibility in my life and has been a blessing.