OSU welcomes College of Veterinary Medicine class of 2028

OSU welcomes College of Veterinary Medicine class of 2028

Monday, January 13, 2025

Media Contact: Taylor Bacon | Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator | 405-744-6728 | [email protected]

This August, the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine welcomed 111 students to the class of 2028 who are fueled by a passion for learning and a commitment to animal health.

"Working with the class of 2028 through the admissions process has been a joy," said Chasity Srader, OSU CVM prospective student coordinator.

Each student brings something special to the CVM. Through unique experiences and perspectives, they are the future of veterinary medicine, Srader said.

"From a small age, I've always wanted to be a veterinarian," said Claudia Pantoja Negron, a first-year veterinary student.

Pantoja Negron is from Vega Baja - a rural town in Puerto Rico. Growing up on a farm with cattle and Paso Fino horses, Pantoja Negron's passion for veterinary medicine was sparked early in life.

"I had the opportunity to interact with animals from a young age," Pantoja Negron said. "The veterinarians who took care of my horses inspired me, and later, I got to shadow them as I gathered hours for vet school. That experience shaped my career path."

As a Puerto Rican, Pantoja Negron brings a unique perspective to the CVM. She hopes to bring her knowledge back to the island and help implement programs that provide accessible veterinary services to communities.

"In Puerto Rico, we have spay and neuter services, but low-cost vaccination programs are rare," she said. "I'd love to use what I learn at OSU to start these kinds of programs in my community."

Another first-year student, Elizabeth Durning, took a different path into veterinary medicine. Initially aiming to work in human medicine, she changed her direction after a summer job as a pharmacy technician.

"I grew up on a production meat turkey and cattle farm in Arkansas and had spent my entire high school career in 4-H and FFA," Durning said. "I researched what I needed to do to be a competitive applicant and quickly knew that veterinary medicine was for me."

Durning said her goal is to leave the field of veterinary medicine better than she found it.

"One major area that production medicine is diving into today is the idea of One Health," Durning said. "I hope to help with the goal of not only improving a herd's livability but also making sure it does not negatively impact any other areas of health."

Both Pantoja Negron and Durning exemplify the commitment and purpose found in the class of 2028, highlighting how diverse experiences come together to build a shared vision for the future of veterinary medicine.

"They are eager to learn, excited to be here and ready to continue making a difference in the CVM," Srader said. "I cannot wait to see what they accomplish in the next four years."

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