Veterinary clinics support girls who want to find a career in science.

Veterinary clinic staff welcomed two students from the local Burgess Hill Primary School. As part of these sessions, the staff aims to convince the girls that science can be interesting and that there's nothing shameful about it. It's hoped that this "experiment" will ultimately lead to more women pursuing careers in science. A recent study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that many girls lack the confidence to pursue high-paying positions in science, even though their exam results are often equal to or even significantly better than those of men.

Staff and students at the estate were concerned that almost everyone had misconceptions about science. There was a widespread belief that it was a "male" profession, and negative stereotypes about the role of women in science abounded, such as posters and advertisements depicting a cat scientist as a female assistant.

Science and Women

The visit to the veterinary clinic was just part of a plan that could help challenge these stereotypes. The children involved in this program will later present the results of their work at the school's Assembly on Women in Science.

The students in the program sat down for an interview with Senior Veterinary Surgeon Emily Chadburn about their life as veterinarians, taking the school dog, Bertie Button, for a health check. Veterinary surgeon Ryan May-Jones examined Bertie's eyes, ears, and heart, explaining the results to the girls, who were thrilled to hear that Bertie was in excellent health!

Veterinary assistant Ellie Davis Du Pierpont of Animal Health has a degree in biomedical science and will soon begin training as a veterinary surgeon at the London Veterinary School. Ellie attended the school assembly with children to talk with other local female scientists about their scientific careers.

Sarah Solomon, manager of the Veterinary Practitioners' Organization, said: "We were delighted to be involved in this program. I fully support the initiative to encourage girls who have decided to pursue a career in science. It was a real pleasure working with the girls. I'm here to meet Emily and Rayon. Bertie has certainly been very well behaved, and we're all delighted that she has received her clean bill of health."

If you want to make sure your pet is healthy, contact the best veterinary clinics in your city. Even if there are no symptoms, a preventative checkup is a good idea.

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