On Saturday, Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine opened its doors to the Stillwater community for a lively open house aimed at inspiring the next generation of veterinarians. The centerpiece of the event was a hands‑on “teddy bear surgery” station where participants of all ages could practice basic surgical techniques on plush animals, a fun yet educational activity designed to showcase the college’s programs.
Family‑Focused Fun with a Purpose
Event coordinator Chastity Srader, the prospective student coordinator for the college, explained that the open house was more than just entertainment. “Being able to bring families here, especially kids, gives them a glimpse of what a veterinary career looks like,” Srader said. She noted that such experiences often plant the seed for future study, citing a grandmother who stopped by with her grandchild who now carries a photo of herself at eight years old performing teddy bear surgery.
Student Perspectives
Current OSU students also took the opportunity to explore the college’s facilities. “I’d never been inside the vet school before, so it was interesting to see a field different from my own,” said Bridget Nye, a sophomore at OSU. Another student, Jake Andrews, enjoyed the hands‑on component, noting, “The bears were ‘sick,’ so we had to take them to surgery and fix them.” Their comments underscore the event’s success in providing a realistic, engaging look at veterinary work.
Encouraging Future Professionals
Srader emphasized the broader goal of nurturing future veterinarians. “I love the feeling of being the start of that dream,” she said, highlighting the college’s commitment to supporting families who hope to see their children pursue rewarding, service‑oriented careers. The open house also featured costume contests and other interactive stations, creating a festive atmosphere that appealed to both children and adults.
Community Impact
The event reflects OSU’s dedication to serving the Stillwater community by providing educational outreach that aligns with traditional family values. By offering a safe, family‑friendly environment where children can explore scientific curiosity, the College of Veterinary Medicine reinforces the importance of strong, supportive families in shaping future professionals.
Looking Ahead
OSU plans to continue hosting similar outreach events, aiming to strengthen ties between the university and local families while promoting careers that contribute to the health and well‑being of animals across Oklahoma and beyond.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
