VMCVM Alumni Spotlight: Amber Lee

Amber Lee DVM '13

Medical Director, Mountain View Humane Spay/Neuter Clinic

How VMCVM equipped me for the 'real world'...
VMCVM taught me to think critically rather than simply memorize answers. When faced with a problem — whether animal-related or not — I consider all perspectives to find the best solution. The right answer can vary, even when the question or problem appears the same, depending on the individual circumstances. It can be really fun and exciting to come up with creative solutions and see them in action.

Best part of being a VMCVM alum...
Being connected to the best veterinary network. Living and working in Christiansburg, I still get to collaborate with VMCVM faculty and alumni on a regular basis. VMCVM is full of incredibly talented and committed veterinarians and it's absolutely humbling and exciting at the same time.

Best advice I've gotten....
You know more than you think. Veterinarians often underestimate themselves and it's important to recognize how accomplished and knowledgeable we are.

How would you capture the essence of your work in a newspaper headline...
Spay, neuter, vaccinate, and innovate: increasing access to veterinary care for all.

My hidden talent...
Baking. I love making desserts that are both beautiful and delicious.

A person who has inspired me...
My husband. He is one of the brightest people I know, yet he is always looking for ways to improve himself.

What did you learn at the college that you never thought you would benefit from?
Pretty much all equine and food animal-related factoids serve me well at trivia nights.

Biggest misconception about my job or industry...
Many people assume that high-volume spay/neuter clinics provide substandard care, but that could not be further from the truth. I am extremely proud of our team’s surgical skills, anesthesia and pain management protocols, sterile techniques, and overall standard of care. Visitors to our clinic are often pleasantly surprised by our cleanliness and by the strong commitment to high-quality care.

Words of encouragement to a current veterinary college student...
Be open-minded and let your interests develop and expand. I never thought I would be working in spay/neuter when I graduated from VMCVM, but here I am. Sometimes life takes you to unexpected places, and that's okay- great, even!

Fondest college memory or tradition...
I was an hour late to my surgery final because of an alarm malfunction. I thankfully finished the exam in time. It was terrifying then, but now it's one of my funniest memories.

A cause I'm most passionate about... The most formative experience I've had...
Increasing access to veterinary care to underserved communities, and practicing spectrum of care. I believe it's important to work with individual families and their unique situations to tailor a plan instead of pushing a one-size-fits-all approach.

Top of my bucket list...
A trip to the African Safari. I would love to see these majestic animals in person in their natural habitat!

My favorite quote...
"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle."

Being a VMCVM alumnus means...
Being part of a rich, diverse, service-minded group of people.

How many pets/animals live at home? Can you tell us about them?
I have a 6-year-old miniature poodle named Dory, who was surrendered by her owner for being too rambunctious as a puppy. She is shy with new people, but very loyal and loving once she gets to know you! She also loves to play with empty water bottles and cardboard boxes, so I never need to spend money on dog toys.