Sandra Strong, Class of 1996
Job title: Chief Veterinarian, Wake County Animal Center
Describe your current position and what led to your job.
Responsible for the health and welfare of 11,000-12,000 animals annually. Manager for 22 shelter employees.
Describe job opportunity trends in your industry. What does the future look like for your industry?
Veterinarians have many opportunities outside of traditional private practice. We are well trained for research and leadership jobs. I started my career in the Army Veterinary Corps and really enjoyed the experience.
What advice would you offer alumni/students looking for a job in your field?
The NC State CVM is a top-ranked school and low tuition rates allow students to enter the workforce without a high debt load. Stay open to the many opportunities that being a DVM provides.
What is the best career advice you have received?
Veterinary medicine is about people and animals. Communication and leadership are key for success. Become a lifelong learner!
Share one “do” or “don’t” that you have learned regarding resumes, interviewing, networking or job searching tactics.
Stay open, friendly and flexible, but don’t accept less than you deserve and be sure to maintain work-life balance for your overall health. You are more than your career.
Anything else you would like to add?
I am grateful to be a North Carolina native and to have received a top notch education at the CVM. I have worked and traveled all over the world, practiced veterinary medicine in different states. North Carolina is unique and beautiful.
