Small
animal vet, and Senior Vice President of the BVA, Daniella Dos Santos has been chosen to be a 2021 STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Learning ambassador.
As
part of a series of free STEM Learning events during British Science Week (5-14 March), Daniella will be giving audiences an insight into her journey into
veterinary medicine with a talk entitled, “From Pythons to President”.
STEM Learning is the largest provider of science,
technology, engineering and mathematics education and careers support for
schools, colleges, and community groups across the UK.
Daniella grew up in Vauxhall, South London, and studied
molecular genetics before applying for veterinary school. She funded most of
her veterinary education herself, and will be talking about her
more unusual route into veterinary medicine,
during her presentation. Daniella will also look at the job opportunities that
a degree in veterinary science can offer, and encourage those with dreams of
working with animals, to go for them.
Commenting
on this new role, Daniella Dos Santos said:
“I’d always wanted to be a vet; it is one of
many amazing careers that science can lead you into. There is a misconception
that you need to be really ‘brainy‘ to get into veterinary medicine, but I
would say that you just need to have an inquisitive mind.
“I
am passionate about diversifying the STEM arena, and here at BVA we are proud
to be working to make the veterinary profession into a more diverse and
inclusive space.
“I
feel privileged to be a STEM ambassador, and I hope that my talk helps to show
that science is for everyone, whoever you are, and whatever your background.”
Daniella’s talk is timely, and in line with a BVA 2021
policy priority of promoting the diversity of veterinary careers to a public
and professional audience. She joins BVA Junior Vice President, Justine Shotton
who is also a STEM ambassador for her local region.
