Imagine a world where your teachings not only guide the next generation of veterinarians but return to you in the form of mention in a heartfelt memoir, offering a profound reflection on the influence you wielded without even realizing it.
As a professor, the opportunity to understand how one’s teaching impacts students is a rare and invaluable one. I was given a unique window into the influence of my teaching when a former student, Loretta Gage, co-authored with Nancy Gage a memoir titled "If Wishes Were Horses: The Education of a Veterinarian".
Loretta Gage’s book sheds light on the highs and lows of veterinary school through a narrative that is as educational as it is heartfelt. "If Wishes Were Horses" goes beyond the technical aspects of veterinary training, delving into the emotional and ethical challenges faced by those in the profession. The book addresses the broader scope of veterinary education, including the often-overlooked aspects of mental health and the pressures associated with the profession.
Dr. Jack Langford (a.k.a. Rick LeCouteur), a professor of veterinary neurology and neurosurgery at Colorado State University, appears several times in the book. His teaching methods and mentorship are immortalized in this revealing memoir.
What makes "If Wishes Were Horses" a standout piece is its ability to articulate the profound bond between teachers and students in the context of veterinary medicine. It acknowledges the role of educators in shaping not just the professional capabilities of their students but also their character and ethical compass.
"If Wishes Were Horses" is a testament to the journey of veterinary students and the indelible mark left by those who teach them, reminding us of the profound influence educators hold over the future of their fields. I will let the following excerpt from the book speak for itself.
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