Why is it fun to be a resident / diplomate?
As a veterinary student, I started in the field of animal nutrition with a student assistant job. I was happy to get the chance to start my doctoral thesis at the Chair of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics (LMU München, Germany) as a result of the undergraduate contacts. After graduation, I completed my internship and residency at this institution, parallel to completing the doctoral thesis and the national board-certified specialization in animal nutrition that is available in Germany. My daily work involved nutrition consultation (dogs, cats, horses, zoo animals), doing research, and teaching. In 2020, I passed my ECVCN board exam and am active in the society and college as well as animal nutrition research.
The time at the Chair of Animal Nutrition and Dietetics was great to obtain a solid background in nutrition and dietetics of different species. Holding lectures to undergraduates about all relevant topics / species helped to broaden my knowledge and was very helpful for studying for the national and college board exams. Working cases in nutrition consultation means dealing with different dietetic strategies, individual requirements, and communicating with vets and pet owners. This helped me to get routine in the application of dietetics strategies and explaining them on different levels (specialist/vet/owner).
In research, I have set my focus on the nutrition of laboratory animals and translational metabolism. Since 2022, I am working in a laboratory animal facility belonging to the Biomedical Center in Munich. I can apply the theoretical and practical knowledge from my background in comparative nutrition in the area of laboratory animal science and translational research.
Why is it fun to be a supervisor of residents?
Working as a supervisor for residents at the European College of Veterinary and Comparative Nutrition (ECVCN) is a highly rewarding role that offers numerous benefits. Supervisors get to stay at the cutting edge of their field, continuously learning while shaping the future of veterinary nutrition. It's a chance to develop leadership skills, expand professional networks, and gain personal satisfaction from mentoring the next generation of specialists. This role not only enhances personal and professional growth but also significantly contributes to advancing animal health and nutrition.