Vet student makes mark in teaching

An Edinburgh vet student with exceptional teaching potential has been honoured by a leading higher education body.

Lauren Krueger is thought to be the first undergraduate vet student in the UK to receive an Associate Fellowship from the Higher Education Academy.

The final year student at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies has been recognised for her contribution to education and learning in vet medicine.

Early success

The Associate Fellowship is normally awarded to academics further on in their careers. Lauren is thought to be the first undergraduate in Scotland in any field to receive this prestigious award.

Lauren is one of 115 students working towards an Undergraduate Certificate in Veterinary Medical Education at the University’s Vet School.

The optional three-year programme, which runs parallel to Lauren’s main degree programme, is the first in the UK to formally champion vet students as teachers.

School visits

As part of the course, Lauren and her fellow students have been visiting local schools to boost their teaching skills and inspire pupils to consider scientific careers.

Some of the visits have involved bringing a staff dog called Juno into class to allow pupils to learn more about caring for canine patients.

The first cohort of 28 out of a total of 115 students on the programme are set to complete their certificate in May this year. Lauren hopes to continue her work in veterinary teaching and research following completion of her degree.