By Julie Tomascik
Editor

Animal agriculture is a large part of the Lone Star State, but a shortage of rural veterinarians could put that business at risk.

With fewer veterinary graduates heading to rural areas, many long-time rural veterinarians have no successors. That leaves farmers and ranchers in a tough situation—call a veterinarian who could be hundreds of miles away or solve problems on their own.

To help ease the financial burden on veterinary students who seek further experiences and education with food animal species, Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) established the Rural Veterinary Scholarship this year.

“There is a clear need for veterinarians in rural areas of the state. This new scholarship was created to help support veterinary students who wish to pursue a career focused on the food animal side of veterinary medicine,” McKenna Bush, TFB youth coordinator, said.

The scholarship is open to second- and third-year veterinary students in a Texas DVM professional program. Applicants must plan to enter a rural and/or food animal practice in Texas upon completion of their degree.

“Fewer veterinarians head to rural areas after graduating, and the aging population of large animal vets is a problem that is destined to get worse,” Bush said. “Farm Bureau wants to help change that, because food animal veterinarians play a critical role in our food system. It’s essential that farmers and ranchers have access to veterinary care for their livestock.”

Four scholarships valued at $10,000 each will be awarded.

To be eligible, students must be a Texas Farm Bureau member at the time of application and maintain an active membership throughout the duration of the scholarship. Applicants must have a 2.5 GPA, and two letters of recommendation are required.

Applications are due online March 1.

For more information and eligibility requirements, a scholarship checklist and the link to apply, visit texasfarmbureau.org/scholarships. Email youthactivities@txfb.org for questions or assistance related to the scholarship application.

Additional scholarships available for high school seniors and enrolled college students are also listed online.