An externship experience at an NVA hospital will give students the unique opportunity to understand the day-to-day operations of the practice, and to gain valuable hands-on clinical experience. 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.    Students will work closely with the supervising Associate Veterinarians to gain experience in gathering patient histories, performing physical exams, creation of treatment plans, diagnostics, dentistry services, observing/assisting or performing surgical procedures, and medical management of patients. In addition to practicing their clinical skills, student externs will have the opportunity to practice their communication skills with the medical team, support staff, and clients.     Most externship experiences range from two to eight weeks depending on student and hospital schedules. Externships at West Salem Veterinary Clinic are designed for clinical year students.   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.