AWS’ Animal Care Intensive (ACI)

AWS’ Youth Programs is pleased to announce that the application for AWS’ Animal Care Intensive (ACI) is now open!

What is ACI?

ACI is a five-day series of workshops for high-school students who have a serious and deep drive to pursue education in veterinary medicine, especially those who would like to learn more about what it’s like to be a veterinarian. During the workshop, students learn from and work directly with professionals and experts in the field including veterinary specialists, licensed veterinary technicians, engineers, exotic animal handlers, and laboratory technicians. They can imagine themselves as future veterinarians.

Students will spend a day right here on our campus at the AWS Community Veterinary Clinic watching our veterinarians in action as well as assisting care technicians with exams and treatments. The program also includes interactive field trips to IDEXX Laboratories in Westbrook, Southern Maine Hospital for Small Mammals in Kennebunk, and the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals in Windham. On these field trips, students see first hand how veterinary medicine is practiced in a variety of settings.

Amanda Zimmerman, our Youth Programs Coordinator, is overseeing this program’s curriculum and is excited to share this experience with students.

“This series of Animal Care Intensive workshops focuses specifically on Veterinary Medicine and the many ways veterinarians practice. Students watch and support the veterinarians in a variety of tasks, and experience first-hand what a career in veterinary medicine entails. This experience can help inform their interests and academic pursuits in the future.”

Amanda Zimmerman, AWS Youth Programs Coordinator

AWS’ Animal Care Intensive is the only program of its kind in the area for high-school students to engage directly with veterinary professionals.

When is Animal Care Intensive?

The program takes place over February break: Monday, February 19 – Friday, February 23 and runs from 9 am – 2 pm. It takes place Animal Welfare Society in Kennebunk. Tuition is $400.

Who should apply?

Are you in 9th – 12th grade and deeply interested in a career in veterinary medicine? Do you have a high schooler at home who may be a future veterinarian? Are you a teacher or administrator knows a student who could benefit academically from this program? If so, we encourage you to apply for this session of Animal Care Intensive. Please submit their application and accompanying statement by February 9, 2024.