Individualized learning pathways are at the center of the Honors College experience, giving students room to explore interests and build toward their futures through guided mentorship and experiential learning opportunities. Options that connect academic work to real-world experiences help students develop skills and perspectives that prepare them for graduate education, professional careers and global engagement, fostering curiosity, leadership and impact, while equipping students with the tools to thrive beyond Oregon State University.
The Pre-Veterinary Scholars Program exemplifies this approach. It is designed to support students interested in pursuing veterinary careers through individualized pathways and mentorship. Launched in 2012 as a collaboration between the Honors College and the Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, the program connects faculty with honors students preparing to apply to veterinary school. Scholars progress towards their degree while gaining hands-on experience with mentors, building confidence and professional readiness early in their academic journey.
Toni Doolen, who served as Honors College dean when the program was introduced, says, “The program was created by myself and Dr. Tornquist, then associate dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. We felt that we could provide a unique opportunity for students interested in careers in veterinary medicine.”
This combination of collaboration and guidance has produced strong outcomes for graduates. Of the nearly 90 HC students who have participated, many have gone to earn their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at OSU or other institutions. One alumnus, Dr. Patrick Callagy, ’21, earned his honors degree in the College of Science before continuing at OSU for his DVM. “I found out about the Honors Pre-Vet Scholars Program when the HC reached out to me because I was a pre-vet option, and they thought I would be a good fit. They encouraged me to apply to the program, so I did,” he says.
Patrick knew the program was right for him when he experienced its community. “I was able to meet older members and realized it was a community full of support and insight. They were also trying to get into veterinary school, and they not only mentored me but helped me with my own application. In turn, I was able to mentor younger members, making my experience come full circle.”
Patrick is now pursuing a career in emergency veterinary medicine in San Jose, California. He credits the program with building a strong foundation for his success. “The pre-vet program was the springboard for my entire veterinary career,” says Patrick. “It gave me my first experience working and learning from people my age that were interested in veterinary medicine and allowed me to not only build a community at Oregon State of like-minded people but also encouraged me to explore more about the field.”
Mentorship remains one of the program’s greatest strengths. “Our partners in veterinary medicine have been amazing mentors to honors students since the program first started,” says Toni. “And it’s exciting that this program has supported so many students as they determine whether a career in veterinary medicine is a good fit for them. A focus of the Honors College has always been about supporting students as they figure out their path through OSU to whatever is next.”
The success of the pre-vet program inspired the creation of the Pre-Pharmacy Scholars Program, which launched in 2023. “I know the Honors College will continue to offer robust curricular and co-curricular experiences that prioritize individualized learning pathways, aligned with student interests and developing skills, perspectives and experiences that allow students to contribute in a significant way to supporting a thriving world,” says Toni.
Students interested in veterinary medicine and admitted to the Honors College at OSU’s Corvallis campus can apply to join the Pre-Veterinary Scholars Program. For more details or to apply, contact Brittany Sundberg at [email protected].
