My journey to SCI began after 10 years of working in a clinical setting. I completed my externship at a feline only practice and continued to work there for the first 5 years of my veterinary career. My path changed dramatically, and I landed at a satellite clinic for the University of Missouri that specialized in oncology, dermatology, and behavior. I became the head technician for the dermatology department, then shifted gears and dipped my toes into oncology during my last year. My final clinical job was at a small animal general practice.

My love for the veterinary field was beginning to fizzle due to the harsh working conditions and long hours with little reward. I was starting to feel the physical effects of standing all day, popping up and down for blood draws and molding myself into a human pretzel to restrain 100+ pound dogs. I also sustained a work-related injury that required months of physical therapy for my back and never fully recovered. After becoming pregnant during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, I came to the decision that I needed to explore other options.

Initially after accepting the position at SCI, I was ecstatic that I would be able to work from home while continuing to help animals. Training was stressful, but I got through it and lived to tell the tale! My first few months working from home were admittedly very awkward and isolating. I found myself picking up relief work at my old clinic while also working full-time at SCI and being pregnant just to experience in-person human interaction. The more time passed, the more comfortable and less lonely I felt in my new position. Fast forward to a few months later and I couldn’t ever imagine not working from home again.

Possibly my favorite aspect of working for SCI is the family environment. I’ve never physically met any of my fellow co-workers and still feel like I’ve built a lasting bond with several of them. I rarely get off late and my body doesn’t physically ache anymore. I recently took on the position of lead technician and deeply enjoy helping and interacting with other techs! I look forward to learning and continuing to grow within this fantastic company.