Since beginning my study of Veterinary Medicine, the field of Public Health captured my interest, with its myriad applications and immense potential for the melding of human and animal interests toward the betterment of society. With time, I began to narrow my focus toward Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, while simultaneously broadening my view to encompass the global impact of this field. The opportunity to teach has allowed me to share my global view with younger students in a most rewarding fashion. Many veterinarians and veterinary students, as well as the general public, tend to narrow their view of the veterinarian’s role to one of clinical practitioner. As I researched the practical and sociological aspects of my master’s thesis, this fact was highlighted by the difficulties and apathy encountered as a researcher. I believe more professionals are needed who have the ability to expand that narrow viewpoint to include the desirability and necessity of research, the development of preventative medicines and application techniques, and the desire to communicate their knowledge. As the global community becomes more integrated, health professionals will continue to face new and varied challenges, and Public Health professionals will be at the forefront of those challenges. Pursuing a PhD in this field is providing me with the additional experience and skills needed to have an increasingly active and interactive role in, not only the formation of an improved body of Public Health knowledge, but a new generation of veterinarians better prepared to face the rapidly changing world.Specialties: Veterinary Public Health, Molecular Epidemiology, Animal Welfare