VMCVM Alumni Spotlight: JoAnna Pendergrass
JoAnna Pendergrass DVM '10
Freelance Medical Writer, JPen Communications
How VMCVM equipped me for the 'real world'...
Making it through veterinary school was one of the hardest things I've ever done. There were many times when I wanted to throw in the towel, but incredible support from family and friends kept me going. Earning my DVM from VMCVM equipped me to take on the professional challenges I would face, which included taking a non-traditional route after graduation: a postdoctoral research fellowship at Emory University and a career transition to medical writing.
Best part of being a VMCVM alum...
Saying that I'm a veterinarian!
Best advice I've gotten....
Give yourself grace.
How would you capture the essence of your work in a newspaper headline...
Veterinary medical writer fills the gap between what the veterinarian says and what the pet parent understands.
My hidden talent...
Carrying my toddler in one arm while balancing a phone, water bottle, and at least one other item in the other.
A person who has inspired me...
My mom has inspired me in many ways. Along with my dad, she has been my biggest cheerleader from day one, always providing encouragement and support when I needed it most. She and I are very close, becoming even closer as I have progressed through school and the ups and downs of adulthood. Simply put, she is amazing!
Biggest misconception about my job or industry...
I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that veterinarians are in it for the money. Definitely not true! We are drawn to our profession because of our compassion and love for animals, not because we're trying to be rich. It's no surprise that pet parents wish their veterinarians could be their doctors!
Words of encouragement to a current veterinary college student...
Being in veterinary school can feel like drinking water from a gushing water hose. There is so much information to take in that it can often feel overwhelming. You're not alone in feeling that way. Slow down, breathe, and don't be afraid to ask for help from your professors and fellow students. Also, make time for your hobbies while you're in vet school; don't lose what makes you 'you.'
A cause I'm most passionate about... The most formative experience I've had...
A cause about which I'm most passionate is quite personal. After experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss, I became passionate about supporting other women who are struggling with infertility. I serve as a Peer Mentor in a local hospital program that supports women and couples who have experienced perinatal loss.
Top of my bucket list...
The top of my bucket list is to travel to New Zealand.
My favorite quote...
"Positivity doesn't mean things are perfect. It means choosing not to let the hard things harden you. It's the quiet decision to keep showing up, even if your heart feels heavy and your feet feel tired."
