VMCVM Student Spotlight: Roberto Steele
Roberto Steele
Degree: DVM Class of 2025, Small Animal Track
Hometown: North Cape May, New Jersey
My undergraduate was in…
Biology with a minor in chemistry. I attended Stockton University in the beautiful NJ Pine Barrens.
Best part of being a VMCVM student…
The community! There are many faculty, staff, and fellow students that I can't thank enough for their contributions to my learning thus far. I've really only had good experiences with the people here!
The moment I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian/public health professional was…
When I was 7 years old and helped take care of my family's dog, Teddy, near the end of his life. I enjoyed going to his veterinary appointments, and those early hands-on experiences were priceless.
My hidden talent...
I enjoy playing the piano a lot; if I had a piano at my place down here I would play almost every day!
A person who has inspired me...
In life, my grandparents. Their work ethic and devotion to family was remarkable, and my Grandma, who is still with us, continues to inspire me to this day. In the veterinary world, James Wight/Herriot. I grew up reading all of his books, which made me even more eager to pursue my dream as a kid.
Biggest misconception about being a veterinarian/public health student…
A fun one is that "big kibble" has begun brainwashing us all, and we'll all forever be loyal followers.
If I had a superpower, it would be...
Teleportation, no question about it! Everything would be much more practical without travel time. Think about how many more things one could accomplish in a day (and also mini-vacations)!
My no-fail, go-for-it motivational song...
"Move On Up" by Curtis Mayfield
The course project/study you're most excited about…
Round two of clinical rotations! Being in the clinic last summer as a veterinary student was such an awesome experience, and I can't wait to do it again during fourth/clinical year!
What excites me the most about the future of my industry...
I appreciate the fact that referral medicine is becoming more available these days while, at the same time, many general practitioners still have the freedom to do a large variety of things on their own. I hope that the veterinary field continues in this direction going forward (especially if I become a GP).
Favorite way to end the day...
When I come home from school, I find that cooking is very relaxing and serves to clear my mind.
Top of my bucket list...
Traveling with my lovely girlfriend.
How many pets/animals live at home? Can you tell us about them?
I have two parakeets back in New Jersey. Skipper has the classic yellow-green-black Australian budgie coloring and likes to land on people's heads. Blossom is solid yellow and likes to destroy anything in her path. They are a bonded pair, and they love to eat, play, and fly together.
