DCHS alumni, Sarah Taylor, graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Animal Biology. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College.

Her desire to become a veterinarian first began when she was about 8 years old. Following an accident involving the family dog, the genuine care and concern for not only her dog, but also her family, convinced her that veterinarian science was in her future. It became clear how much of an impact she could have as a veterinarian on not only the animals she would work with but the people she would come into contact with as well. Whether it is through assisting with adoption programs or offering at-cost health care, there are many ways in which veterinarians can assist animals in need and have a greater influence on their communities.

Through Christian groups, such as the Ontario Veterinary College Christian Fellowship, Sarah has learned about the ways current veterinarians are able to use their veterinary skills and passion for God to impact the lives of others. There are many Christian vets who are working abroad in developing countries to assist with livestock care and education of local producers and veterinarians. These people are able to use their veterinary skills to go out and be witnesses for Jesus in the communities that they work in.

When asked about her time at Durham, Sarah shared, “I have a lot of great memories from my time at Durham; including participating in the annual school dramas, band tours, making pottery in art class and painting multiple murals on the school walls.” Some other memories included science projects/experiments… cell models made of cake, jello, and playdough; catapults and cars that were launched with elastic bands for physics and the fetal pig dissection giving a hands-on opportunity to learn about anatomy.

“I suppose that is why these are some of my favourite school related memories because we had the opportunity to learn from practical experience and that’s what made it fun and memorable.”

“It is this underlying desire to help others and to make a difference in the world around me that has fuelled my decision to pursue veterinary medicine. I believe that my knowledge, skill, and experience gained as a veterinarian can be used in a leadership position to implement change in the lives of animals and the people who care for them.”