Externships
Our externship program gives DVM students of all years hands-on experience in friendly, supportive practices across the country. Work alongside experienced teams who are invested in your growth, build clinical skills, and take the next step in your journey to becoming a veterinarian.
Real Experiences. Real Growth.
Don’t just take our word for it. See how students have built confidence, learned from dedicated mentors, and experienced what sets a great practice apart.
“From helping me find the right practice for my interests to coordinating housing, the Heartland team made everything simple and stress-free. The mentorship I received was unmatched, and I truly felt supported every step of the way.”
Laney Balser
Class of 2027, Lincoln Memorial University
“My externship was full of hands-on learning opportunities. The doctors encouraged me to analyze cases and interpret labs on my own before providing insights and explanations.”
Daylan Luza
Class of 2028, Texas A&M University
“My favorite part of my externship was being able to witness a happy and healthy practice culture while seeing different ways to practice ‘good medicine’ from each of the veterinarians.”
Briana Jones
Class of 2026, Mississippi State University
“I’ve had externships where they wouldn’t let me do anything, but with Heartland I was actually able to do surgery and run appointments. It was a fantastic experience.”
Scott Miller
Class of 2026, University of Missouri
“If you’re on the fence about an externship as a first or second year, just do it! It’s a great opportunity to see real-life cases and practice skills you learned in the classroom.”
Kayla Eyler
Class of 2028, Oklahoma State University
Externship Rewards Program
Real-world learning. Support that meets you where you are. And for 3rd and 4th year students, exclusive rewards for leaning into the Heartland externship experience.
Apply
Get started and explore externship opportunities at one of our practices.
Schedule
Our team will help you find a practice that matches your interests and goals.
Complete
Complete your externship and walk away new skills, and a Heartland sweatshirt.
Connect
Connect with a recruiter to explore next steps and receive a $250 airline gift card.
Externship FAQs
From scheduling and housing to what your days will look like, we’ve answered the most common questions so you can feel confident before you even step into the practice.
Who can apply for an externship?
Our externship program is open to 1st–4th year veterinary students. Whether you’re just starting to explore or getting closer to graduation, we’ll help you find an experience that fits your goals.
How long are externships?
Most externships are two weeks, though timing can vary based on your school requirements and availability. If you need something longer or shorter, our team will work with you to find the right fit.
Where are externships offered?
Externships are available in practices across our network in 30+ states. We’ll help match you with a location that aligns with your interests, goals, and preferred geography.
How do I apply for an externship?
Start by submitting a simple application to one of our available externships. From there, our team will connect with you to learn more about your interests and help guide you to the right practice.
How are externship placements selected?
Our team works with you to understand your clinical interests, goals, and preferences, then matches you with a practice where you’ll get the most out of your experience. Or, if you already have something in mind, you can apply directly through our careers page, and we’ll help support you from there.
Is housing provided?
If you’re traveling more than an hour from home, we’ll coordinate and cover housing for you—often close to the practice, with comfortable, convenient accommodations.
What if I don’t need housing?
If you’re staying locally, we can offer a gas reimbursement to help cover travel expenses during your externship.
Are externships paid?
The simple answer is no. We want you to focus fully on learning, mentorship, and hands-on experience without the expectations of a formal role.
What can I expect during my externship?
You’ll gain hands-on experience in a real practice setting, working alongside experienced teams who are invested in your growth. From observing and assisting to thinking through cases, the goal is to help you build confidence in a supportive environment.
Can this lead to a future opportunity with Heartland?
Absolutely. Many students use their externship to explore potential career paths and build relationships. If you’re interested, we’re always happy to continue the conversation about what comes next.
Who is eligible for externship rewards?
Rewards are available to 3rd and 4th year veterinary students who schedule and complete an externship with a Heartland practice.
What rewards are offered?
Eligible students receive a Heartland sweatshirt after completing their externship and a $250 airline gift card after connecting with a recruiter.
When can I talk to a recruiter?
You can connect with a recruiter before, during, or after your externship, whenever it feels right for you. The airline gift card is issued after both your externship is complete and you’ve had that conversation.
How do I receive my rewards?
After your externship, you’ll receive a short survey to share feedback and provide your shipping details and size. Once submitted, your sweatshirt will be mailed to you.
After completing your externship and connecting with a recruiter about post-grad opportunities, your $250 airline gift card will be sent to you digitally via email.
Do I have to accept a job with Heartland to receive rewards?
No. Rewards are based on participation, not employment. There’s no commitment required.
Can I earn rewards more than once?
Students may receive each reward once, even if they complete multiple externships.
Externships Lead To Opportunities
Dr. Grace Butler externed with two Heartland practices during vet school, looking for hands-on experience and supportive mentorship.
What she found were teams that welcomed her, encouraged her, and helped build her confidence along the way. That experience made a lasting impression. After graduation, she returned to one of those same practices, where she’s continued growing as a veterinarian with the same support that helped shape her experience as a student.
Where will your externship take you?
Many students use their externship to explore potential career paths and build relationships with practice teams. If you’re ready to take the next step, apply for an externship today or contact the team for additional support with the application process.