VMCVM Student Spotlight: Ezekiel Jennette
Ezekiel Jennette
Degree: DVM, 2026, Mixed Animal
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina
My undergraduate was in…
Biology at Western Carolina University
Best part of being a VMCVM student…
The best part of being a VMCVM student is the support that we receive from our amazing instructors to help us transform into confident veterinarians.
The moment I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian/public health professional was…
Around my sophomore year in college. I was originally a mechanical engineering major, but I later switched my major to biology to follow my passion for animal care. I then started shadowing amazing veterinarians who guided me and helped me fall in love with the profession!
My hidden talent...
I have been painting portraits, landscapes, and abstracts since the age of 7 and I even had a few works shown in art galleries. I have also played the tenor saxophone since middle school.
A person who has inspired me...
Dr. Mathews, my mentor at Western Carolina University, has been a huge inspiration to me throughout my veterinary journey. Dr. Mathews was a practicing veterinarian until he retired to teach undergraduate courses and expose college kids to veterinary medicine. He inspires me to nurture the next generation of curious minds and one day become an instructor myself.
Biggest misconception about being a veterinarian/public health student…
The biggest misconception about being a vet student is that all of our time is spent doing school-related activities. While these activities may take up most of our day, a lot of us still find time to participate in endeavors that we are passionate about outside of school.
If I had a superpower, it would be...
Teleportation! I would be able to travel anywhere in the world for free.
My no-fail, go-for-it motivational song...
“The Man” by Aloe Blacc
The course project/study you're most excited about…
I am currently working with VT engineering students to develop low cost veterinary prostheses! I have an interest in physical rehabilitation and sports medicine, and I hope to contribute to the growing industry of veterinary prostheses while making them more affordable to owners.
What excites me the most about the future of my industry...
I am excited about the increasing availability of veterinary care to low-income communities and the growing representation of marginalized populations in the veterinary field. Growing up, I was never exposed to veterinary medicine, although I always had a love for animals, and I did not meet a veterinarian of color until my senior year of college. I am honored to use my platform to inspire the next generation of veterinarians and STEM professionals.
Favorite way to end the day...
I love to end the day by getting a workout in then lying down while petting my dog and playing Madden.
Top of my bucket list...
I would love to attend a rodeo one day. I have been a fan of bull riding for as long as I can remember.
How many pets/animals live at home? Can you tell us about them?
I have a 9-month-old Rottie named Layla and a 1-year-old snapping turtle named Chance the Snapper.
