Graduating Senior Balances Motherhood and Veterinary Dreams

Graduating Senior Balances Motherhood and Veterinary Dreams

As she prepares to graduate this May, Christie Hoeflinger, a senior studying health sciences with a pre-medical professions concentration, reflected on a journey defined by resilience, hands-on learning and a clear sense of purpose.

A Toledo native, Hoeflinger returned to higher education in fall 2023 after stepping away from college during the pandemic. As a nontraditional student and parent to her young son, Hoeflinger chose The University of Toledo for its supportive environment and proximity to her family and support system.

"I needed to be close to my support network to balance school and parenting," she said. "UToledo provided that sense of community."

Hoeflinger's path to veterinary medicine began early, driven by a lifelong passion for animals and a strong interest in science and anatomy. Through the health sciences program, she has built a foundation that combines interdisciplinary coursework with real-world application, preparing her for the collaborative nature of healthcare professions.

Courses in healthcare ethics, law and evidence-based practice have broadened her perspective, helping her understand how veterinary medicine intersects with other disciplines.

"Veterinarians don't work in isolation," Hoeflinger said. "The program has helped me see how important it is to understand multiple fields and how they connect."

Beyond the classroom, Hoeflinger has gained extensive hands-on experience working as a veterinary assistant at local animal hospitals for the past several years. These experiences have strengthened her clinical skills and prepared her for the demands of veterinary school and beyond.

"Working in clinical settings has taught me how to stay adaptable and composed in high-pressure situations," Hoeflinger said. "It's where everything you learn really comes together."

On campus, she has been actively involved in student leadership and mentorship roles, including serving as a Presidential Ambassador, a student ambassador for the Pre-Health Advising Center, service chair for the Pre-Vet Club, co-founder of Rockets Parents and Caregivers, and a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Ohio.

Through these experiences, Hoeflinger built connections across campus while supporting fellow students.

She credits faculty mentors, including Dr. Sarah Long, a senior lecturer in the College of Health and Human Services, and Dr. Deborah Hendricks, director of the Pre-Health Advising Center, for their guidance and encouragement throughout her academic journey.

"Their belief in my abilities made a significant difference," Hoeflinger said. "Having mentors who see your potential and know you can succeed helps you stay motivated and confident in your path."

Long said Hoeflinger has been an outstanding student whom she's enjoyed getting to know outside of the classroom.

"I really appreciate that she contributed thoughtful ideas during class because it brought a different perspective to our discussions," Long said. "Given her experience prior to starting the HS program, she brings a maturity and professionalism that made everyone around her better. I'm confident she'll be a great veterinarian who will take great care of the animals as well as their human parents."

Balancing academics, work and family responsibilities has required careful planning and self-awareness. Hoeflinger emphasized the importance of setting priorities, establishing boundaries and taking time to reflect on what is working.

"It's about being honest with yourself and managing your time intentionally," she said. "That balance is key to staying focused and avoiding burnout."

This fall, Hoeflinger will continue her journey at Colorado State University's Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. Following completion of her DVM, she plans to pursue specialization in avian and exotic animal medicine.

Her long-term goal is to work in a field that expands access to veterinary care for a broader range of animals.

Looking back, Christie said her experience at UToledo has been transformative - not only in preparing her academically and professionally, but in helping her recognize her own resilience and capabilities.

"Returning to college showed me what I'm capable of achieving," she said. "It's never too late to pursue your goals if you're willing to put in the work and use the resources around you."