Ark Valley News - VCHS Intern of the month

Valley Center High School senior Maddi Breault (right) helps with a patient.

VCHS Intern of the month
By Abigail Sheahan
Last Updated: April 20, 2017

Intern working with furry friends

"March comes in like a lion, and goes out like a lamb." It's a good thing we have a veterinary intern to keep these animals on track. Maddi Breault has been named the Valley Center High School Intern of the Month for March.

Maddi interns for Heartland Animal Hospital and also had the opportunity to intern with Newton Animal Hospital during part of her second semester. She is able to observe many different things like surgeries and dental cleanings, and she gets to help out with various tasks.

After reading Maddi's Internship Blog, it is easy to see she has a true love for animals and understands everything that comes with being a vet, the feeling of accomplishment and dealing with the loss of patients. Maddi looks to the bright side to deal with tough situations, writing in her blog, "It is always encouraging to see that people will go great lengths to take care of their beloved furry family members, who so easily become like children."

Throughout her internship, she has learned about handling stress, proper etiquette (or I should say "vetiquette"), taking initiative, and problem solving.

Internship Coordinator Cody Lee says, "Madison's strengths lie in her communication skills. Her professionalism is strong for someone her age and she regularly strives to ensure quality in everything she completes."

Lee goes on to mention Maddi's leadership skills and enthusiasm for serving her community.

"She took a strong lead in a community service project geared toward her field of interest this year and I really saw her passion for veterinary medicine show in that service activity," Lee said. "She loves to reach out to her community and cares deeply about building a strong network for those who share similar interests in veterinary medicine."

Growing up with animals my entire life, I know how important a good vet is. Maddi has the love for animals and the passion for veterinary medicine that are essential qualities all pet owners look for. The career is both rewarding and challenging, but Maddi is up to the challenge.