Experiences Abroad: Scotland
Nov. 13, 2008

Holly Minard at Isle of Skye.		Holly Minard (left) and Sammy Rose at work at the large animal surgical theater at the Easter Bush Veterinary Centre.

“I realized what makes me tick as a person and the priorities of my life back in the states”, said Holly Minard, a senior in the UA Department of Animal Sciences. “I also opened myself up to a different culture, and I know that has made me grow as a person.”

Minard, a pre-vet student, participated in a summer research internship at the University of Edinburgh, Royal School of Veterinary Studies. Minard said she served as a veterinary assistant to the head anesthesiologist at the school's Veterinary Center and observed surgery techniques with horses, dogs, cats and sheep. She said she learned not only medical aspects of surgery but also other basic and practical knowledge in the animal sciences.

“I got to focus on learning new topics, such as anesthesia,” Minard said. “”Doing things in a different environment taught me to be more self-reliant and independent.”

On the weekends, Minard said she loved to explore and travel throughout Scotland. During her travels, she kissed the Blarney stone in Ireland, saw Buckingham Place in England and had her first taste of haggis in Scotland.

“This experience helped me advance my knowledge of veterinary medicine and my horizons.” Minard said. “It enriched my life in ways nothing else could. I hope that someday I will be able to help other students pursue study abroad opportunities.”

Minard received the Cordia Harrington “The Bun Lady" International Experience Endowed Scholarship through the Bumpers College Global Studies Program.

Global Studies Program
Dr. Raymond W. Barclay, Director
425 Hotz Hall, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
479-575-6727 • rbarclay@uark.edu