VEG Education Insights: The DVM Externship and NERD Programs
- VEG
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Audalys Pena began her VEG career as a DVM extern at VEG and never looked back. After her externship, she worked her way through the New ER Doctor (NERD) program and is now an ER doctor at VEG Jacksonville. Thanks to her VEG education experience, she learned what it takes to be an ER doctor—and now feels confident that she can handle any case to walk through the door. Here’s what she had to say about her experience.
Which education program/programs did you participate in?
I participated in two: the DVM Externship program and the NERD program.
How did you learn about the DVM externship and NERD programs?
I attended veterinary school at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, and heard about VEG’s programs through their outreach there.
Why did you participate? What were you hoping to get out of these programs?
I decided to do the externship for a few reasons. I was a veterinary student, so I wanted to gain hands-on clinical experience. I also wanted to gain exposure working in emergency medicine and in an open concept hospital.
I went on to the NERD program because I loved my VEG externship! After veterinary school, I wanted my first job to include structured mentorship, a high case-load, surgical exposure, and a positive teaching environment—all things I knew I’d get at VEG.
What kind of support did you receive from your team/manager to further your learning?
At VEG South Tampa, I was very lucky to have a strong team of senior doctors to help shape me into the ER vet I am today—both clinically, through guidance and mentorship on cases, and professionally, through my development as a leader. I had monthly 1:1s with our medical director and classes with my entire NERD class, which helped strengthen our educational and professional development. My team of support staff was also critical to my growth as an ER doctor. They taught me something new every shift and I couldn’t have done my job without them!
What was your favorite aspect of the NERD program?
My favorite part was the structured mentorship and increased independence I received throughout the program. While our independence increased with every shift and week in the program, it was nice to know that for the first four months, I always had a senior doctor there to learn from and ask questions. The learning opportunities were endless—from our hands-on training at TMI (a.k.a. Translational Medicine Institute), to weekly classes, to in-person case experience.
Share something unexpected about your experience.
Because of the NERD Program, I was able to learn a lot about exotics. As a result, I can help even more people and their pets!
How has this program helped you to grow in your career at VEG?
It will make me a better doctor knowing how to use my available resources and a better mentor to future generations of veterinarians. I can also better relate to future NERD classes since I’ve been through it too!
Is there something you’re doing now that you weren’t able to do before completing this program?
Before completing the NERD program, I didn’t have the confidence I do now. As a NERD program graduate, I have the resources and knowledge to come up with a plan for pretty much anything that walks through our doors.
Search for a job in veterinary medicine where the learning never stops
VEG ER for Pets prides itself on its culture of learning, with educational programs to help grow your knowledge and support your career goals, whether you’re a student, new to ER, or a seasoned veterinary professional.
