Podcast A Vet: Stories, Support & Community From Leaders In The Veterinary Field

Today we're having a look inside the mind of today’s veterinary student. Dr. Laurie Fonken focuses on helping students take care of themselves throughout the stressful journey of veterinary schooling and she speaks about the importance of bravery, self-love and the relief of having someone to talk to.  Dr. Fonken is the Director of Counseling and Wellness Programs for the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Colorado State University, in addition to being a member of the AVMA Roundtable and Veterinary Mental Health Professionals. Through her position, she provides counseling services for DVM students experiencing academic hardships, situational issues, crises or mental-health concerns. In addition, she is also a member of the AVMA Roundtable.  Dr. Fonken also runs Healer’s Art at CSU. This 15-hour elective enables the formation of community and strives to help students care for their souls. She shares how having a non-judgmental outlet to help overcome the struggles of being a student, an