I first heard about the Mazunte Project as a second-year veterinary nursing student still deciding which elective clinical rotations to take. A couple of students in the class above me were able to go and after hearing their stories I knew immediately that I wanted to be part of this amazing opportunity. Not only would I be able to help improve the lives of so many animals in the Oaxaca, Mexico area, but I would be helping to protect the sea turtle population as well and I couldn’t imagine a better clinical rotation. When applications for the next year opened, I applied and was so excited when my application was accepted.

During the 2.5 weeks that that we were in Mexico our MSU team traveled to 4 different villages and performed over 330 surgeries on both cats and dogs. It was amazing to see how much we could accomplish as we grew and became closer as a team. Personally, I grew so much as a veterinary nurse. I learned many valuable life lessons and became much more confident in my technical skills. Not only did my technical skills improve but also my confidence and leadership skills. Before this program, it was my tendency to let others take charge and follow their lead, but this program forced me out of my comfort zone and gave me the confidence I needed.

As a veterinary nursing student on the Mazunte Project I was able to do much more than I had anticipated. I managed the supplies that we took to the villages and made sure that we had enough for each day. I also placed so many IV catheters that I lost count, intubated dogs, and cats of all sizes, calculated, and administered anesthetic drugs, monitored anesthesia, and even scrubbed into a spay on a large dog with Dr. Harris. The days were long and hot, and I know we were all tired but knowing we were making a difference in the lives of so many animals and their owners made it all worth it.

Aside from the veterinary medicine aspect, this trip introduced us to a beautiful region of Mexico and allowed us to learn more about a different culture. We were able to enjoy amazing food, watch gorgeous sunsets over the ocean, and even release baby sea turtles.

The Mazunte Project was the clinical experience of a lifetime. I am so thankful that I was given this opportunity, and I am beyond thankful for the wonderful veterinarians and veterinary nurses who taught me so much on this program. I know I will remember it forever.

Name: Bethany Leuenberger
Status: Senior
Major: Veterinary Nursing
Hometown: Lake City, Michigan
Program: The Mazunte Project in Mexico