Key takeaways
Jameson Bell’s experience in the Swine Veterinary Internship Program (SVIP) demonstrated the importance of hands-on learning, allowing him to apply classroom knowledge to real-world farm settings and to develop practical veterinary skills.
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Mentorship played a critical role in his growth, as guidance from experienced veterinarians helped him navigate challenges, refine his decision-making and build confidence in his ability to contribute to the swine industry.
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Through his internship, Bell learned that adaptability and clear communication are essential when working with farm staff and conducting research — reinforcing the need for strong teamwork and problem-solving skills in veterinary practice.
For many veterinary students, the journey from academia to hands-on field work can feel like stepping into an entirely different world. Textbooks and lectures provide a strong foundation, but nothing quite prepares a student for the unpredictability of the farm — the early mornings, the problem-solving on the fly, and the reality of working alongside producers to keep animals healthy and operations running smoothly.
For Jameson Bell, a third-year veterinary student at Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, participating in the Swine Veterinary Internship Program (SVIP) provided that missing link. Over the course of his internship, he transitioned from classroom learning to real-world application, tackling research, farm challenges, and hands-on veterinary work. His experience in SVIP not only sharpened his technical skills but also deepened his understanding of the swine industry and the crucial role veterinarians play in it.
Shaping Industry-ready Veterinarians
SVIP plays a pivotal role in preparing veterinary students for careers in swine health management. For Bell, the program offered a unique opportunity to step beyond the classroom and onto commercial farms, where he encountered the daily challenges faced by swine veterinarians.
Mentorship was a key component of his experience. From the initial stages of his internship to the completion of his project, Bell worked with his mentor, Noel Garbes, DVM, Senior Technical Services Veterinarian, Zoetis, and veterinarians at Veterinary Medical Center in Williamsburg, Iowa. “Their guidance provided me with the confidence to navigate research challenges, improve my clinical decision-making and develop practical problem-solving skills,” Bell said.
Hands-on Learning With Industry Experts
Highlights of Bell’s SVIP experience was working directly on farms and applying research methods to real-world scenarios. His project focused on evaluating postpartum prostaglandin F2α (Lutalyse® Injection (dinoprost tromethamine injection)) administration in sows. While his findings suggested potential benefits for first-parity sows1, the most valuable aspect of the project was learning how to conduct research in a commercial setting.
Navigating farm dynamics was a significant learning experience. “I realized the importance of clear communication and adaptability, especially when ensuring farm staff adhered to research protocols,” Bell said. To help with this, he implemented strategies such as stall flags and piglet color markings to prevent protocol mishaps, reinforcing the importance of organization and teamwork in veterinary practice.
Real World Experience
Beyond his research, Bell immersed himself in a variety of industry experiences. He spent time shadowing veterinarians, assisting with herd health assessments and gaining exposure to large-scale swine production operations. Bell added that understanding research methods is crucial as a swine veterinarian since new diseases and advancements constantly shape the industry. These experiences broadened his perspective on the role of veterinarians in disease prevention, herd management and production efficiency.
One of the most memorable aspects of his experience strengthened his passion for swine medicine and helped him appreciate the complexity of the industry, from production management to disease control strategies. Bell stated, “Leaning on your peers, asking questions, and finding mentors who inspire you, like the Zoetis team has done for me, helped build my confidence and shaped my SVIP experience.”
Conclusion
“My time in SVIP reinforced my passion for swine medicine while strengthening my hands-on skills. From conducting research to working alongside industry professionals, these experiences have helped prepare me for a future dedicated to advancing swine health and production,” Bell shared.
As he moves forward in his career, Bell remains committed to applying the lessons learned during his internship to improve herd health and support producers. His journey through SVIP demonstrates the program’s ability to bridge the gap between academia and the veterinary profession.
For more information on SVIP, visit https://vetmed.iastate.edu/vdpam/academics/summer-opportunities/svipOpens in a new window.
