Alumni Interview with Victoria Woodard

What inspired you to go abroad?

I grew up wanting to help animals abroad as volunteer work, not a career. However, after I decided I wanted to become a veterinarian a couple years ago, I thought this was the perfect opportunity to travel abroad, gain animal experience, and help animals in need.

Why did you choose Loop Abroad?

Loop Abroad had amazing reviews and my friend knew someone that did the exact program in Thailand before who said it was life-changing. I chose the veterinary service program because I was working on applying to veterinary schools at the time. I chose Thailand simply because I wanted to work with elephants but also small animals too. 

What was your favorite part of Thailand?

The Thai people that helped with our program were incredibly kind, funny, and willing to answer our numerous questions. I am also a picky eater, but was able to find delicious, unique foods everywhere we went. There were so many fruits I had never heard of that I wish I could've taken home.

What made your experience abroad unique?

I had a year’s worth of hands on animal experience before going to Thailand which I believe helped me to benefit the most from the program by knowing what questions to ask that I am unable to get here in the United States at a busy hospital. We had the time to ask questions and the doctors would try to find pets to practice exams and relate our lectures to. 

How did local staff support you through the program?

The staff were incredibly nice and helpful in answering any questions we had. There was a girl that wasn't feeling well during the trip and the staff provided her with everything she needed to see a doctor or go back to the resort to rest. 

What is one thing you wish you had done differently?

The only thing I wish I had done differently was to fundraise more. It was kind of a last minute decision to apply, and when I got accepted I did not begin fundraising in time. Everything about the trip, though, was perfect and I wouldn't change a thing. 

Describe a typical day in the life of your program.

One week was spent at the animal shelter that was lecture based in the morning, followed by applying those skills learned on actual pets. The second week was at the elephant nature park where we also worked at a dog shelter, but mainly were able to observe and help treat the elephants. 

What did you enjoy doing in your free time?

Working with the dogs at the animal shelter at ENP was my favorite part. There were many disabled dogs that needed to be walked, plus the heartworm positive dogs that could only receive love in their kennel due to the risks of the disease. Helping to treat these types of animals in need is exactly what I would like to do someday as a veterinarian. 

What was your accommodation like? What did you like best about it?

The first week was spent at a resort where my room had two bunk beds and desks. Although it was small, we would come home exhausted so it was not hard to fall asleep! At ENP, we stayed in a large room for six sharing one bathroom. I liked that we all were in a room together, it allowed us to bond with late night talks. 

What is one thing every participant should know before participating in your program?

Enter the country with an open mind and willingness to learn. Take in everything you can and take lots of pictures! However, make sure you see everything with your eyes and not through the camera lens. 

Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?

I have been researching my next volunteer abroad trip already! The satisfaction of helping animals throughout the world is indescribable. I left with memories and friends for life, and I cannot wait to return!

Would you recommend Loop Abroad to others? Why?

Absolutely! This program was life changing. It not only solidified the fact that I want to be a veterinarian, but helped me decide I want to travel abroad as a veterinarian too. One of the doctors I worked with was from the U.S. and the other from Australia, and they are gaining experience working with animals that are so rare to help in the United States unless you're working in a zoo. I learned so much from these amazing people and cannot wait to teach others someday.