Volunteering & Employment
The Wildlife Medical Clinic (WMC)
Want exposure to the field of wildlife rehabilitation, caring for ambassador animals, or learn how to ethically raise and release orphaned wildlife? The Illinois WMC is just the place for you. An application to join is sent our within the first weeks of school annually.
The Wildlife Epidemiology Lab (WEL)
Whether you’re looking to try fieldwork for the first time, want to start a research project, or find a summer job, WEL may be the right place for you!
Cockatiel Team
Looking for more experience in avian handling, research, and husbandry? Cockatiel team is a great opportunity for all of the above. An application is typically shared after Winter Break annually via email by the ZooMed Service. Keep an eye out! Otherwise, get a glimpse of the facilities here.
Zoological Pathology Program
The Zoological Pathology Program is a unique collaboration between the Illinois CVM and a number of private and public entities, ranging from zoos to federal wildlife agencies to conservation organizations around the world. Some students have the opportunity to participate in this important work!
Illinois CVM Student Summer Research Program
Gaining research experience is a crucial step toward becoming a board-certified zoo veterinarian. While this program is not exclusively focused on non-traditional species, many past projects have involved wildlife and zoo populations, often in collaboration with esteemed partners such as the Shedd Aquarium and Brookfield Zoo.
Elective Coursework
From the water to the skies, Illinois CVM provides numerous courses on a diversity of species! Note, the electives offered each semester vary based on available faculty and your current year of vet school.
Student Organizations
The Non-Traditional Species Club (NTS)
It would be a downright shame if we did not plug ourselves, now wouldn’t it? NTS is THE place to be if you are interested in companion exotics, wildlife, and zoo medicine.
The Wildlife Disease Association (WDA)
If you’re especially interested in wildlife diseases, WDA may be another student organization you will want to explore! Follow them for updates.
Aquatics Club
If you’re especially interested in aquatic species, Aquatics Club may be another student organization you will want to explore! Follow them for updates.
Company Representatives
Corporate companies often offer vet students opportunity to work as a student representative. The rep. acts as a liaison, assisting with on-campus events like lunch lectures or workshops while sharing opportunities with the student body. These roles often are paid, provide excellent networking, and scholarship opportunities. See some of the exotics-focused companies with reps at Illinois CVM.