Abstract

Zoological veterinarians are increasingly finding interesting careers in a variety of organizations. As these opportunities grow, how might one decide what role is best? Each role and each organization have different pieces which can be wonderful or not.

Having worked as a clinical veterinarian at several nonprofit zoos and aquariums, then spent time as a corporate executive and now employed as a dean of a veterinary college, I have enjoyed various aspects of these different career options. No job is perfect in every way and, depending on your personal and professional goals, one may be a better fit than another. This presentation will attempt to highlight the pros and cons of working in these different roles and varied organizations.