Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) students submitted a diverse group of globally minded projects for consideration for a travel-grant contest offered through the CVM’s International Programs Office. Seven students whose projects were deemed to be the “most educationally beneficial” and “interesting” will be traveling at least partially on KSU’s dime this summer. The winning projects will occur in Africa, Asia, South America and Europe. “The interconnected nature of today’s world means that it is important for all veterinarians to have a global perspective,” said Keith Hamilton, BVSc, executive director for the CVM’s international programs. The winning students and projects were: Jessica Prado will delve into expanding animal husbandry and health education in northern India and in Thailand. Stephanie Skinner will promote health management of llamas in Peru. Her project seeks to improve the livelihoods of local communities by improving fiber production. Erin Strathe will take part in a mentored clinical experience in Puducherry, India, where she will forge a relationship between KSU and the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research; it is hoped that through this partnership that other KSU veterinary students will be able to participate in student exchanges in the future. Jeffrey Laifer will study neurology at the University of Ghent in Belgium. Kansas State University will be exploring a partnership that would allow its fourth-year students to participate in clinical rotations at the University of Ghent and for its students to participate in clinical rotations at KSU. Taylor Young and Katya Luckenbach are spending four weeks in Tanzania and Rwanda with a multidisciplinary team to gain leadership skills and One Health experience. Chantal Girard will promote rabies education and vaccination in Namibia. “Several of the students traveling this year will also be acting as ambassadors for the College of Veterinary Medicine, helping to establish and strengthen strategic links with overseas institutions, which will create international opportunities for future generations of K-State students,” Hamilton said.
