Recent graduate Karlee Skinner is pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian while living in a tropical paradise. Skinner, an alum of Iowa State University, is currently a first-year veterinary student at St. George’s University in Grenada. Graduating in spring 2024, Skinner earned her bachelor's degree in Animal Science and Animal Ecology.
Skinner originally from the suburbs of Chicago, chose Iowa State University for its hands-on animal science program.
“Living outside one of the biggest cities, we don’t get a lot of experience with livestock and handling,” Skinner shared. “Iowa State offered that for me. I would never change my decision.”
Additionally, Skinner was actively involved in numerous organizations while at Iowa State. She served as a Resident Assistant in Maple Hall for three years, was an active member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, a National Residence Hall Honorary club member, and was the Marketing and Recruitment Director of the Campus Service Council.
When asked about her decision to attend St. George’s, Skinner shared, “I chose St. George’s University because of their devotion to student mental health and their updated curriculum. The new curriculum offers more time to study outside of class to understand the concepts in your own way.”
Studying abroad comes with its challenges, but Skinner has found a sense of community at St. George’s University. “Many of the students here are in the same boat as me—graduates of U.S. schools pursuing their dreams of becoming veterinarians.”
Beyond campus, Skinner has embraced the unique culture of Grenada. “The second we step off campus, it’s a new world with traditional foods, friendly locals, and so many adorable stray dogs that love the SGU students!”
After completing veterinary school, Skinner plans to take a few months off to focus on her mental health. Reflecting on her journey, Skinner shared, “My entire life has been about working, studying, and striving to be the best student I can be. While it’s been incredibly rewarding, it’s also been draining. I need to prioritize myself before I begin practicing as a veterinarian full-time.”
When asked what advice she would give to current Iowa State students, Karlee Skinner emphasized the importance of gaining hands-on experience early.
“Start getting hours in as soon as you can,” Skinner shared. “Most of the first term so far has been a lot of body systems, biology, and mechanisms of how it works, but in clinical skills, having the experience of working in a clinic or with a veterinarian is extremely beneficial.”