About the Program

EVSBEP stands for Early Veterinary Student Bovine Experience Program.  There is a growing demand nationally for veterinarians who wish to work with cattle.  EVSBEP is designed to expose students to commercial cattle operations and to veterinarians working with cattle, who can mentor the student.  Since most veterinary students do not come from agricultural backgrounds, exposure to animal agriculture and veterinarians working with cattle creates awareness of new career possibilities.  The UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine uses the program to increase the number of students choosing to work with cattle following graduation, and to better prepare veterinary students for their career working with livestock.  EVSBEP used to be called EVSDEP (D was for dairy), but was broadened in 2005 to include all cattle experience.

Who can apply?
Any first or second year veterinary student in the School of Veterinary Medicine, at UC Davis, may apply.

What is the amount of the scholarship?
The scholarship is $2500 for 5 or more weeks of participation.
DVM students must be in good academic standing to receive the scholarship.

How much time is required?
Participants are exposed to working with a commercial cattle operation, such as a dairy, for 5 or more continuous weeks.  The dates are flexible, and are arranged to be mutually convenient for the livestock operation and the student.

What will the student do in the first year?
The student will work with the owner or herdsman to learn about the major jobs on the facility, by working at those jobs.  On a dairy the areas of training would include delivering calves, raising calves, milking cows, feeding cows, breeding cows, treating sick cows, record keeping, and working with the veterinarian during his/her visits.  The student normally works 5 to 5 ½ days a week by agreement with the manager.

Where does the student live?
Some dairies have free housing suitable for the student.  Students also may live at home or with a friend or relative if they live near a participating dairy.  The faculty member will help you make contacts for housing.  Meals are the responsibility of the student.

What does the student do if she/he continues in the program a second or third year?
Students continuing in the program, or students who are new to the program but have extensive experience on a commercial cattle operation, are paired with a veterinary practice involved with cattle production medicine.  They go on daily calls with one or more veterinarians, and gain valuable experience.  Veterinarians serve as role models and many students develop a lasting professional relationship with their mentors.  As in the first year, a $2500 scholarship is awarded for 5 weeks or more of participation.

When should you apply?
First and second year enrolled veterinary students at UC Davis should apply by January 15.