VMCVM Alumni Spotlight: Rachael Dunn
Rachael Dunn '10, DVM ‘14
Practice Owner/Veterinarian: Loudoun Urgent Vet
How VMCVM equipped me for the 'real world'...
VMCVM taught me how to use my knowledge and apply it. I got a very good foundation in veterinary medicine from the program. It made me ready for Day 1.
Best part of being a VMCVM alum...
The resources and networking! My classmates are amazing and we stay in touch often. A lot of us stayed in the area, which allows us to refer to one another and collaborate on similar industry issues. VMCVM provides CE opportunities and have continued to be a great resource for referral or consultation.
Best advice I've gotten....
You never know unless you try.
My hidden talent...
Bringing people together. .
A person who has inspired me...
My parents. My mom is a first-generation college graduate. And my dad worked hard and made sacrifices to start a small business.
Biggest misconception about my job or industry...
We are just in it for the money.
Words of encouragement to a current veterinary college student...
Always be humble, try to learn from everything you do, and if you end up in clinical practice, always treat your support staff with kindness and respect.
Fondest college memory or tradition...
OB sleeves at graduation in the stadium.
A cause I'm most passionate about... The most formative experience I've had...
Rescue work. I am closely associated with Loudoun Community Cat Coalition in Northern Virginia. Our mission is to provide spay/neuter services and medical assistance to community cats.
Top of my bucket list...
Going on a safari in Africa.
My favorite quote...
"How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard." - Winnie the Pooh
A little bit of a sad quote, but it's my favorite. Working in ER/Urgent Care medicine, I deal with a lot of families saying goodbye to their beloved companions. This quote is a constant reminder of how strong the human-animal bond can be.
Being a VMCVM alumnus means...
The prestige of being from a top level veterinary college.
How many pets/animals live at home? Can you tell us about them?
I have a zoo. 3 Dogs, 2 Cats, 1 Rabbit, 1 Goose, and 4 Ducks!
Anything else to add?
I'm 10 years out and I truly love what I do. We have the best profession!
