Everyone has a favorite animal.

But how many people get to live out their dream working directly with said animal?

For zoological veterinarians and conservationists, getting up close and personal with some of the most amazing and endangered animals on the planet, such as rhinos, pandas, tigers, orangutans, etc. is more than a dream…it’s their job!

For Natalie Smith, working with such animals has always been the plan.

Currently a first-year student at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Natalie is originally from Youngstown, New York. After successfully graduating from University of New Hampshire with a BS in Biomedical Science: Medical and Veterinary Science, she decided to follow in the footsteps of her grandfather, who also had a love of zoos, aquariums, and most importantly, conservation medicine. 

Recently, Vet Candy spoke with Natalie Smith. Today she talks about why mental health needs to be taken seriously and shares how travel has inspired her to become the best veterinarian she can be.

Tackling Mental Health Stigma

Did you know?

In terms of careers, veterinarians are some of the most stressed out professionals.

In fact, according to the National Library of Medicine, there is a “high prevalence” of psychological stressors in veterinary practice…much more so than in the general population. And oftentimes, this begins early during the schoolyears.

Natalie explains:

“I think the biggest problem facing the veterinary field today is the stigma involving mental health. Mental health needs to be a primary focus starting at a young age and throughout our entire lives. Often when students are expected to always have great grades there is a tremendous amount of pressure put on them and not everyone is able to handle that intensity.”

After a stressful day, Natalie Smith clears her head by surrounding herself with the love of animals.

That means cuddling her dogs for hours, visiting the school cats, scrolling through her #vetstagram account, watching Animal Planet (or her guilty pleasure show, Bachelor in Paradise!)

“Mental health is something that should always be openly discussed,” she summarizes. “There needs to be a greater level of understanding and compassion for all.”

See How Beautiful the World Really Is

Additionally, Natalie is a big fan of travelling.

Her mission in life is to make a difference in not only the veterinary community, but the world as a whole. In order to save all the beautiful creatures found on planet earth, she has gotten on planes – sometimes flying tens of thousands of miles – to learn more about them.

For instance, at just 15 years old, she went to Melbourne, Australia for the International Student Science Fair where she got to do scientific research at a university level and be exposed to different cultures, environments, ecosystems and experiences.

Neat!

However, Natalie also understands that traveling takes time, effort, and money.

She says:

“I think everyone should try to travel as much as possible in their lifetime because it not only exposes you to different cultures, but it allows you to realize that the world has a tremendous amount of amazing opportunities. I know that often it is not financially feasible, but I found ways to earn my trips. I also have chosen a career that may allow me to find jobs anywhere in the world. Having international exposure gives you a better understanding and love for everyone’s differences. Also, I simply have loved seeing how beautiful the world really is!”

Natalie’s final words of advice?

“No matter what struggles you face and no matter how hard times get, I promise you are more than capable of getting through it and you will come out stronger than you ever thought imaginable. Just keep pushing and be the best version of yourself you can be.”

To follow Natalie’s paw-some vet med adventures, visit her Instagram: natalie.vet