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Today, the first cohort of Veterinary Medicine students from the  will graduate. As we’ve built up to the big day, we’ve focussed in on some case studies of this year’s graduands.

From observing cataract surgery on a Sumatran tiger, to shadowing vets at the UK’s busiest airport, and leading public health discussions at a conference, Okemute Larson-Orhougbe has embraced every opportunity presented during her Harper & Keele Veterinary School (HKVS) journey. 

As she prepares to graduate in Summer 2025, Okemute reflects on her transformative experience and fondest memories: “I feel like placements have honestly been a huge highlight of my time at HKVS. I've travelled to places I never would have before, particularly as a stalwart city girl - I’m from London but also Nigerian! - I completed an Ophthalmology placement in Penrith and lambing in Cumbria, visiting the Lake District for the first time!”  

Over the course of their five-year veterinary degree, students must complete a set number of  in order to graduate. These student-arranged placements provide hands-on, real-world experience across a range of veterinary disciplines. 

Intra-mural rotations (IMR) form part of the curriculum, these authentic work placements with our network of vet practice partners and other related businesses help students to build practical experience and develop a portfolio of professional, clinical skills. 

“During my Zoo and Wildlife elective, as part of IMR rotations, I spent time at Twycross Zoo. I was fortunate enough to observe cataract surgery on a Sumatran tiger! The surgery was a whole day affair, with an anaesthesia team from the University of Nottingham and veterinary ophthalmology specialists travelling from Edinburgh to operate.  

“It was really something to see the seamless teamwork throughout the operation and even better to see the tiger make a successful recovery. It was a fantastic experience and a real highlight of my time on placement.  

“But, without a doubt, my fondest memories are of the people I’ve met during my time at university. The joys, the laughs, and sorrows shared. The cultures they've taught me. I have made friends for life.” 

Alongside her studies, Okemute took on the role of Ambassador for the Veterinary Public Health Association (VPHA), contributing to their annual conference and attending a weeklong masterclass that showcased the breadth of government veterinary work.

“I've so very much enjoyed my work with the VPHA, it was a huge blessing to be a part of! At the conference, ambassadors were tasked with leading discussions before presenting the findings. Our roundtable focused on the topic of collaborative One Health and how human medics and veterinary surgeons can see intersections in care for their respective patients. It was an interesting and insightful discussion with perspectives from human medics, public health veterinarians, and VPHA colleagues. 

“The VPHA masterclass was utterly fantastic! I met educators and peers alike, all passionate about their field, all excited and eager to elicit change in the world. During the week we shadowed vets at Heathrow Airport experiencing life as a veterinary inspector at our border posts, heard about careers with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and visited the Knepp Rewilding Centre to learn about the important role of vets in rewilding. It honestly broadened my mind on the breadth of opportunities available to vets.” 

Whilst there have been many positive experiences along the way, Okemute shared some of the challenges she faced during her studies: “Veterinary medicine is an intensive programme, and it took me a while to adapt to the way you are taught and learn at university. What I found worked, and my advice to others would be firstly to put your wellbeing first, as the saying goes, ’you can't pour from an empty cup’. 

“Secondly, let the perfectionist go. Be adaptable, try new methods, see what works for you and what doesn't. Make mistakes, with confidence, and never stop believing that you CAN overcome. Because you will!

“Lastly, be passionate, be yourself, take every opportunity and go for it!” 

After completing her degree, Okemute plans to enjoy a break, take up cookery classes, learn to embroider and visit the south of France. “Then, my job hunt begins as I step into a new chapter.  I am excited to begin in first-opinion practice, before exploring roles in public health, One Health, and specialisation further down the line!”