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PetSmart Charities Veterinary Fellowship

The PetSmart Charities Veterinary Fellowship equips passionate veterinary students to pursue impactful careers in community veterinary medicine. This selective program invests academically and financially in students through mentorship, professional development, and structured support during veterinary school and for up to four years following graduation.

The College of Veterinary Medicine is currently accepting applications for an internal nomination process.

  • Application deadline: May 18 

  • Notification Date: Applicants will be notified by May 22 if selected to move forward

  • Info Session: May 13 | 5 PM | Green Room, S2 223 | Join via Zoom

  • Open to second-year students only

Fellowship highlight

  • Dedicated mentorship and supplemental education to support success in community veterinary practice 

  • A national professional network of community medicine veterinarians 

  • Up to $120,000 in total financial support across veterinary school and post‑graduate fellowship years

Who should apply

  • Students with strong motivation to pursue a career in community veterinary medicine

  • Students interested in full‑service companion animal practice

  • Students with demonstrated experience or involvement in community‑based or underserved settings

How the Application Process Works

Step 1: Internal Nomination (College of Veterinary Medicine)

Students submit a brief internal application that includes a 250‑word essay. A limited number of applicants will be selected for nomination by the college.

Step 2: National Fellowship Application (PetSmart Charities)

Only nominated candidates will receive an invitation from PetSmart Charities to apply directly to the national fellowship program, which includes a more comprehensive application.

DVM Internal Application Requirement

Applicants must complete the application form and submit an essay (up to 250 words) responding to the prompt below:

Essay Prompt

Why are you interested in practicing accessible veterinary care?
Please describe what motivates you to pursue community veterinary medicine, including your interest in working with underserved or limited‑access pet‑owning communities. You may reference relevant experiences, personal values, or professional goals that align with the delivery of affordable, accessible, full‑service veterinary care.

Application Form

Essay Submission Instruction

  • File name format: LastName_FirstName_PetSmartFellowshipEssay.pdf 

  • Upload your essay via the secure submission link.

Applicant Information Session

Students interested in applying are strongly encouraged to attend an in‑person information session, which will provide an overview of the PetSmart Charities Fellowship, explain the two‑step application process, and offer guidance on preparing a strong, competitive application for both stages.

  • Date: May 13

  • Time: 5 PM

  • Location: Green Room, S2 223 | Join via Zoom

Questions? 

Email Dr. Jessica Reed jmr428@cornell.edu