Building More Than a Career
A Student Ambassador Spotlight
As a third-year veterinary student at The Ohio State University, Zach Suarez has already discovered that success in veterinary medicine is about more than clinical skills. It’s about finding mentors, building meaningful relationships, and embracing opportunities that help shape the kind of veterinarian you want to become.
“I’ve always had a deep passion for veterinary medicine,” he said. “Growing up, I was always curious about animals.”
While many aspiring veterinarians grow up with dogs or cats, Zach’s childhood included everything from sugar gliders and hermit crabs to chameleons and exotic birds. He was constantly surrounded by animals, and every new experience reinforced his passion.
That passion became a career goal after shadowing veterinarians at All Creatures Veterinary Clinic in Rittman, Ohio. Before long, Zach joined the practice as a dog daycare attendant and eventually worked his way up to becoming a veterinary assistant. For nearly five years, the team became much more than coworkers – they became mentors who encouraged him through every stage of his journey to veterinary school.
“When I got accepted into veterinary school, they were nothing but supportive,” Zach said.
It was those same mentors who introduced him to Heartland’s Student Ambassador Program.
At first, Zach wasn’t familiar with Heartland and wasn’t sure what to expect from a larger veterinary organization. But after learning more about our approach to supporting practices while preserving their unique culture and identity, he decided to apply for the ambassador program.
That decision has become one of the most rewarding parts of his veterinary school experience.
For Zach, being a Heartland Student Ambassador isn’t just another line on his resume – it’s about fostering relationships with veterinary professionals and creating opportunities for fellow students. One of his favorite experiences came when he connected a classmate who was passionate about feline medicine with Heartland’s externship team. They helped place her at a feline-only practice, where she found exactly the type of experience she had been hoping for.
“We’re all in this together, despite our different paths,” he said.
Those relationships continued to grow when Zach attended Destination Heartland, an event that brings veterinary students from across the country together to get a firsthand look at the people and opportunities that make Heartland special.
One session, in particular, left a lasting impression. Zach learned that Heartland’s commitment to veterinary students extends beyond recruitment when he learned that our campus team offers to review student employment contracts – even if those contracts are with a practice outside of Heartland.
“They are invested in your success, whether you choose to work at one of their practices or explore other paths,” he said. “Heartland just genuinely wants students to succeed. I think that’s incredibly valuable.”
As he looks toward graduation, Zach plans to pursue small animal general practice while making a meaningful impact in the communities he serves. Recently accepted into Ohio State’s Spectrum of Care Certificate Program, he’s passionate about helping pet owners find treatment options that meet both their pets’ medical needs and their financial circumstances. He’s also become increasingly involved in community initiatives like trap-neuter-release programs, an experience that has strengthened his desire to make veterinary care more accessible.
Just as important, Zach hopes to be part of a new generation of veterinarians that prioritizes personal well-being alongside exceptional patient care.
“Mental health is a big emphasis for me,” he said. ” Veterinary medicine is a big part of our lives, but it shouldn’t define your identity.”
He encourages other students to make time for the people and activities that bring them joy, which ultimately makes them stronger professionals.
His advice for students considering the Heartland Student Ambassador Program is simple; go for it.
“If a student is considering applying to be an ambassador, I would encourage them wholeheartedly,” he said.” It’s a rewarding position that can enhance your experience and open up new opportunities in your career.”
For Zach, becoming a Heartland Student Ambassador has been about much more than professional development. It’s been about finding a community that invests in students, supports their goals, and empowers them to build the future of veterinary medicine – wherever their path may lead.
Experience that shapes your future.
From hands-on learning to meaningful mentorship, our customized externships are designed to help you prepare for life after veterinary school. If you’re ready to learn alongside an experienced team in a supportive practice, we’d love to help you find the right opportunity.