"I basically entered into the advanced pre-vet internship knowing absolutely nothing about the career other then the fact that it dealt with animals. Entering into the internship I was taken by surprise. I
had no idea there was this whole other side to the vet degree. Living life as Professor Wittnich (in some ways, I?m sure hers was ten times busier) I learned quite a lot about the non-conventional vet career
and its many components but also about the vet career itself. Dr Wittnich was extremely helpful in helping me figure out what to do and how to do things. It was informative and very hands-on. In short,
taking part in the pre-vet internship has been the smartest move I made since entering university. Great mentors (got to say thanks to Mike, Nesime, Steve, Luke and especially Dr Wittnich), awesome
opportunities to learn many things about vet medicine and way too much fun. I suggest this to anyone to wants to pursue vet medicine, it's an opportunity you won't regret."

Hamsha 2008 Advanced Pre-vet Intern

"Before I was involved in the pre-vet program, I had only a very limited understanding of what being a vet would actually be like. Participating in this pre-vet intership allowed me to witness, and experience what a non-conventional vet career might entail. This internship was immeasurably informative, and provided a most unique 'inside look' into the life of a veterinarian who has a career that is remarkably expansive, diverse, and exciting. The experiences and knowledge I've acquired throughout this internship were incredible. I would strongly recommend this internship to anyone who has vet or medical school ambitions."

-- Patricia 2007 Intern

"While being a volunteer with OERS, I was exposed to a variety of experiences.  This opportunity has greatly contributed to my breadth of knowledge as a person as well as my understanding and concern for the world that we live in.  I had the opportunity to interact with a range of animal species from rats to a beluga whale." 

"This experience also exposed me to the many aspects of research, which is becoming increasingly important in the world of doctors and medicine for all species.  I was able to get involved in literature searches and paper writing as well as care of research animals and the experimental process.  The uniqueness of this experience allowed me to deal with current real world issues.  I also got to work with the members of OERS that not only have an understanding of animals but also of the realities of the professional and educational worlds today."

"They are extremely patient and dedicated teachers, more than willing to provide a hands-on experience to those who show interest and passion for their work.  Becoming a veterinarian in today’s world requires a diversity of quality experiences that can be obtained with great pleasure by joining the OERS family."

-- Ashley 2006 Intern

"At the time of my enrollment into the OERS biomedical internship,  I had come out of my third year of university with no clear designs for my future and only a basic understanding of the career of a research scientist. The internship seemed like a 'good idea' at the time for getting research experience, but I had learned more by the end than I could ever expected. There was, of course, the nitty gritty of churning out a research paper, from the forming my own idea to interpreting data and having a final finished product. With every step of the process, there were difficulties I had never expected, but also the development of essential skills that I learned over weeks, instead of years.

Beyond the actual research, however, was the exposure to the lives of researchers. It was there that I learned about both the rewards and challenges of real-world research, which has proven invaluable in guiding my future.  Looking back, the internship is more of a 'pivotal experience' and I'd recommend for any student in my situation."

   -Arthur 2008 intern

"The advantage of participating in the Advanced Marine Mammal Internship was the unique experience of understanding the complexities associated with marine mammal studies. The breadth of data gathering stretched far beyond the walls of the lab, yet with the guidance of my mentor, I was able to break it down into manageable parts and turned it into meaningful information. The whole process has ensured that when facing future research projects, I will have a better understanding of the nature of research on marine mammals, but also no matter the topic, be able to look at the data critically, and to report on unique and useful findings. I also realized how much more difficult it can be executing studies when working with the limitations marine scientists are frequently confronted with."

"There is definitely a great energy among the OERS members that makes everyone who participates in their internships feel welcome. They are dedicated, approachable and knowledgeable people, making sure that your experience will last you throughout your time as a research scientist!"

-- Ashley 2007 Intern

"The advanced biomedical intership program with OERS provided me with a compressed overview of what research is all about. As a well structured course, it involved things from literature reviews and formation of hypothesis to statistical analyzation of data and writing up a discussion. Instead of being spoon-fed like most of the undergraduate lab courses, scientific research requires critical thinking. This is exactly what the biomedical research internship is designed to do. Through feedbacks from the OERS instructors, I have improved my understanding of research substantially. But on top of that, it was a FUN and invaluable experience! I would strongly recommend this course to anyone who wish to pursue an academic career in science."

-- Andrew 2007 Intern

"This is a worthwhile experience, especially if you don't have a lot hands on experience in a lab. I found it to be very informative, and I worked with the best people with a lot of experience. I learned a lot
and couldn't ask for more, and I believe that this experience has prepared me for future studies in research.

-- Deniece 2007 Intern

"The advanced marine mammal internship program was a great opportunity to get hands on experience in the field of marine mammal research.  As an undergraduate student, I did not have a lot of experience in research.  The internship taught me how to first look at the literature to get a feel for the subject and then go on to formulate my own experiment and how to present my findings in a manuscript.  The OERS family was very helpful and informative.  It was an amazing learning experience! For any students planning of a future in research, this program is a must have."

-- Chelsea 2007 Intern