Meet the Veterinary students on the Liverpool and Kansas exchange programme

Posted on: 28 August 2025 in Community

Through a unique partnership between the University of Liverpool and Kansas State University, veterinary students have the opportunity to step outside their home institutions and experience animal care from a new perspective.

The exchange allows students to expand their clinical skills while immersing themselves in another culture. From joining clinicians on farm visits across the wide Kansas landscape to working alongside teams in small animal hospitals in the UK, participants gain first-hand insight into how veterinary medicine is practiced on both sides of the Atlantic. And beyond the clinics, they’re forging friendships, exploring new surroundings, and collecting experiences that will shape them as future veterinarians.

Meet some of the students who have benefitted from this programme.

Sophie Drury

University of Liverpool Student

Sophie spent her summer at Kansas State University a journey she describes as unforgettable.

“Over the Summer, I had the privilege of completing 6 weeks of my rotations at Kansas State University where I worked in Equine Field Service and Small Animal Orthopaedics and Soft Tissue Surgery,” Sophie explains. “It was a fantastic opportunity to experience veterinary practice in a different country and discover more of my American family roots.”

One of the highlights for Sophie was accompanying clinicians as part of the Equine Field Service team. “I particularly valued accompanying the clinicians on ambulatory visits which gave me insight into the logistics and challenges faced by equine fieldwork in the US based on the vast amount of land to cover and the impact this has on providing emergency care. We also had interesting discussions regarding vaccinations, and the American students couldn’t believe that the UK is rabies-free!”

Outside of the hospital, Sophie embraced life in Kansas, making the most of the sunshine and local scenery. “I enjoyed the sunny weather, and running along the Linear Trail exploring the Kansas landscape. The scenery provided a perfect balance to the busy hospital days and made the whole experience even more enjoyable.”

Looking back, Sophie sees the exchange as an invaluable part of her journey to becoming a veterinarian. “Overall, the experience was not only a valuable addition to my clinical training but also a memorable cultural exchange that I will cherish forever.”

Kristi Seff

Kansas State University student

Last summer, Emma spent two weeks at the University of Liverpool's Leahurst campus, immersing herself in the busy hospital life and gaining hands-on experience in surgery, consultations, and ICU care.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Leahurst veterinary campus. I was very grateful to be able to participate in almost every surgery that went into theatre and help out with consultations,” Emma explains. “I also enjoyed attending intern and resident meetings and rounds, which gave me a great insight into the structure and teamwork behind a teaching hospital.”

In quieter moments, Emma assisted in the ICU, where she found the nursing staff warm and welcoming. “I was able to help in ICU during downtime between appointments, and the nursing staff were very kind and supportive,” she says.

Beyond the clinical experience, Emma says the visit offered inspiration and motivation for her future career. “Overall, I could not have enough good things to say about this visit. I was inspired by every vet I met and I left every evening excited for the next day. Thank you again for the amazing opportunity.”

Olivia Freeman

University of Liverpool student

In June, Olivia undertook a six-week externship at Kansas State University, working in small animal medicine, soft tissue surgery, and anaesthesia. “The initial weeks presented a significant learning curve as I adapted to new protocols, infectious diseases, medications, and cultural nuances,” Olivia recalls. “Although many aspects of clinical practice seemed to mirror the UK, there were some aspects which were vastly different.”

Supported by house officers, residents, and interns, Olivia gained valuable hands-on experience, including monitoring anaesthesia during complex surgeries. A favourite memory was caring for Caz the cat, “a charming old ginger with a wonderful personality,” during an internal medicine rotation.

Reflecting on the experience, Olivia says, “My time in the US was an incredibly insightful experience that has strengthened both my clinical knowledge and confidence. I gained invaluable hands-on skills, enjoyed working within a supportive team, and made memories I will carry with me throughout my career.”

Thanks to the students on the exchange programme for sharing their experiences with us.