Harper Adams University Hosts Inaugural Careers Day, Celebrating Interprofessional Collaboration

Veterinary companies, charities, and associations have been welcomed to the Veterinary Education Centre at Harper Adams for the inaugural ‘Interprofessional Careers Day.’ 

Co-hosted by the Harper & Keele Veterinary School and Harper Adams Veterinary Nursing team, the event provided students with a dynamic platform to engage with professionals in the veterinary field, learning more about various specialities and the evolving landscape of the industry.

Renowned veterinary scientist, Professor Anna Meredith OBE – the new Executive Dean for the Faculty of Natural Sciences at Keele University – opened the day with a keynote talk. This was followed by several sessions giving students guidance on career planning, professional development, and the skills necessary to excel in their chosen role.

Viki Weigh, Head of Veterinary Partnerships and Placements at the Vet School, said: “It was a delight to jointly host the first careers event alongside Veterinary Nursing colleagues.

“With more than 25 organisations in attendance, the exhibition provided students with the chance to network, fostering relationships that may open doors to mentorship, internships, and future career opportunities.

“The event underscores the significance of interprofessional collaboration within the veterinary industry, which is pivotal in addressing complex challenges, enhancing patient care, and driving innovation in veterinary medicine. By bringing together students, practitioners, and experts from various specialties, we aim to emphasise the importance of collaboration across disciplines.”

Pippa Bond, Undergraduate Veterinary Nursing Programme Manager, said: “It was fantastic to see students engage with the inaugural Interprofessional Careers Day.  To have an event of this scale at the Harper Adams Campus, and to see a whole day dedicated to exploring potential career opportunities within the veterinary industry, including some less typical routes, was wonderful. We look forward to this becoming a staple of the academic calendar.”

Vets Stay Go Diversify support veterinary professionals to create satisfying careers. During the event, Director and Head of Coaching, Adrian Nelson-Pratt, shared practical tips with students to help them find, and apply for their first role.

Adrian added: “We were thrilled to talk to vet and vet nursing students about CVs, identifying red flags and green flags in those early contracts, and how to sell yourself. I think the next generation are going to be really important for the profession because they are bringing new ideas, they’re being taught in some very different, innovative ways. I don’t think we fully understand yet the potential these students will have to influence the profession long term.”