Although every NVA hospital is unique, we all have some things in common: an environment that is supportive, committed to excellent medicine, and provides exceptional service to animals and the people who love them. 
An externship experience at an NVA Specialty Hospital gives students real-life clinical experience in a single or multi-specialty hospital, and the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills while working alongside experienced clinicians, board-certified specialists, current interns, and residents. Hands-on skills that may be practiced or observed include TPR’s, examinations, anesthesia, surgical procedures, catheterization, ultrasound, and other diagnostic procedures as they are available.  
Most externship experiences range from two to eight weeks depending on student and hospital schedules. All veterinary students (regardless of class year) are encouraged to participate in NVA externships, though preference may be given to students in their final year(s) of veterinary school. 

Veterinary students who are in the clinical portion of their education are eligible for a travel/living expense stipend. Click HERE to view list of stipend amounts and HERE for details on the stipend program.