The next Opportunities in Equine Practice Seminar, a professional forum created to encourage students to enter equine practice upon graduation, will be held Aug. 30-Sept. 1 at Griffin Gate Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Lexington.
Re-established in 2023 after a 10-year hiatus, the event was brought back to address the emerging crisis of the diminishing number of graduating veterinary students entering equine practice.
The seminar connects third-year veterinary students, the class of 2026, with practitioners from around the country who present their experiences in various disciplines, from general and mixed practice to board specialties. Practitioners provide an introductory view of all aspects of equine practice from the large hospital setting to the solo practitioner at nominal or no expense to the student. The event is the result of the cooperative efforts of equine practitioners from across North America, with additional financial support from industry sponsors and the American Association of Equine Practitioners.
The estimated 325 attendees will be able to engage in interactive discussions and hands-on workshops with equine practitioners and industry partners, and also tour equine hospitals, local horse farms, and Keeneland Race Course.
“We are thrilled to announce another year of OEPS and welcome veterinary students, equine practitioners, and industry partners to join us for an amazing educational and networking opportunity,” said Dr. Craig Lesser, the lead organizer of OEPS. “With dwindling numbers of students pursuing careers in equine practice, we aim to inspire and equip students with knowledge about the vast opportunities within equine practice that make our careers uniquely gratifying.”
The event will include an exhibition hall where attendees can interact with equine practices, industry-leading companies, and social events to foster networking between students and OEPS supporters.
Opportunities in Equine Practice Seminar has hosted more than 4,100 students since its inception in 2003. The seminar’s career management format offers practice and financial management information for the student and opportunities for practitioners to establish long-term mentoring relationships with the approximately 325 veterinary students attending.
This press release has been edited for content and style by BloodHorse Staff.
