Devin Wicker in scrubs with her black dog and tabby cat

We're putting our student ambassadors in the limelight. Students from all four years of veterinary classes bring their expertise and experience to bear in helping you learn more about the DVM program and the student experience here at the Oregon State University Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine. 

Devin Wicker | About Me

Hi all, my name is Devin (pronouns she/her/hers), and I am in the Class of 2023. I am from Bend, Oregon and completed my undergraduate degree in biology at OSU-Cascades. I have always loved science, but didn’t know that I wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine until my senior year of undergrad. Prior to that, I was working towards a career in the human medical field, and volunteered at a medical clinic for the uninsured for over three years. This experience influenced the direction of my career as a veterinarian, inspiring me to someday give back to my community by being actively involved in educational outreach and volunteering medical services to the underserved. Outside of veterinary medicine, I enjoy photography, painting, cross-country skiing, climbing and exploring the outdoors with my dog Otter. If you have any questions at all or just want to know some great hiking trails in Corvallis, don’t hesitate to reach out at wickerd@oregonstate.edu :).

Q&A

Why did you want to become a student ambassador?

When I first visited as a prospective student, the students and faculty here made me feel welcomed and a part of a large family. This feeling is invaluable, and one I hope to share with other future students.

What tip/advice would you offer to future students?

From getting into a program to taking the board exam, vet school never stops being hard. Take time to enjoy yourself along the way and explore your interests both veterinary and non-veterinary related. Varied experiences not only make for a great application, but also give you a unique skill set and perspective that will benefit you as a veterinarian. 

What’s your favorite experience/memory of vet school so far?

Looking back at all four years, it’s hard to pick one favorite experience or memory. I have really enjoyed all the hands-on experience during fourth year and was definitely very excited when I got to try out laparoscopy and the LigaSure on the small animal surgery rotation. But as a whole, the camaraderie with my classmates has been my biggest highlight. Whether we were memorizing hundreds of anatomy terms the night before an exam or having a movie night with kittens while on rotation at the Oregon Humane Society, we have found the time to laugh and have fun. I am very thankful to have been able to go through vet school with such amazing people.