An externship experience at an NVA hospital will give students the unique opportunity to understand the day-to-day operations of the practice, and to gain valuable hands-on clinical experience. Although every NVA hospital is unique, we all have some things in common: an environment that is supportive, committed to excellent medicine, and provides exceptional service to animals and the people who love them.

Students will work closely with the supervising Associate Veterinarian to gain experience in gathering patient histories, performing physical exams, creation of treatment plans, diagnostics, dentistry services, observing/assisting or performing surgical procedures, and medical management of patients. In addition to practicing their clinical skills, student externs will have the opportunity to practice their communication skills with the medical team, support staff, and clients.

Most externship experiences at Soldotna Animal Hospital range from two to eight weeks depending on student and hospital schedules. We have a limited number of externship slots available. Students with an interest in practicing in Alaska post-graduation will be given top priority consideration for rotations.

It is a requirement of the state of Alaska that veterinary students are in the final year of their education to obtain an externship in Alaska. The student must hold a veterinary student permit before beginning an externship in the state per 12 AAC 68.500 and 08.98.188 Instructions on how to obtain the permit can be found HERE.

Veterinary students who are in the clinical portion of their education are eligible for a travel/living expense stipend. Click HERE to view list of stipend amounts and HERE for details on the stipend program.