THE COMMUNICATOR

Dr. Amanda Belton

Veterinarian, Clear Creek Animal Hospital, Charlotte, NC | DVM 2019, Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine

My Story

I have known that I wanted to be a veterinarian since the age of 7. I have always had an interest in science as well as helping people. This profession allows me to do both while being presented with a different puzzle to solve each day. I enjoy small animal private practice specifically because I enjoy being able to see patients from the time they are young into their adult years. Having medical care provided for oneself or one’s animal can be overwhelming, and I enjoy the opportunity to help walk clients through difficult diagnoses.

My Struggles

The transition from undergrad to veterinary school was definitely a challenge. I realized that I didn’t truly know how to study and it was difficult to manage the volume of information being thrown at me in such a short period of time. I definitely learned how to ask for help and lean on my friends when I didn’t understand everything. Even as a graduate, I am always learning something new.

My Heroes

My parents were my first heroes and role models because they were always super supportive of my dreams. They both raised me to have a strong work ethic and set an example of how to live a life of integrity. They also exposed me to lots people of color in the medical field. I had the pleasure of meeting Dean Reed in high school during the Boiler Vet Camp. He took the time to speak with my parents and I about my goals. I stayed in touch with him throughout my undergraduate career at North Carolina A&T and was really excited to get the phone call from him saying I had been accepted into Purdue’s vet school. Finally, Dr. Tracy Hanner from North Carolina A&T was one of my advisors and helped me tremendously with my application. There are so many more that I credit with my success!

My Typical Day

I arrive at the clinic at 7:30 am. This gives me time to finalize my notes from the previous day and review the histories for my morning appointments. My appointments can range from new puppy visits to more complex cases where a patient has multiple diseases that I am trying to manage. I also complete soft tissue surgeries. The clinic I work at is big on work-life balance. I have a half an hour midday to catch up on paperwork and then an hour for lunch to reset my mind. We see afternoon cases until 5 pm but close at 6 pm. I spend the remainder of my time sending emails, returning phone calls, and completing any other important tasks needed for the following day.

My Stressors

My biggest stressor is trying to be as thorough as possible while remaining efficient. I manage this by not being afraid to delegate tasks when I need to and by having lots of communication with clients outside of their appointment times.

My Why

I really enjoy building long-term relationships with clients and patients. I enjoy being the person who can provide education, empathy, and reassurance to clients.

Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, 625 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, 765-494-7607

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