Student Spotlight: Shelby Lassiter

Shelby Lassiter

DVM Class of 2026, Small Animal

Hometown: Spencer, West Virginia

My undergraduate was in…

Biochemistry at Marietta College

Best part of being a VMCVM student…

The community! I have made so many great friends and feel so supported by mentors.

The moment I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian/public health professional was…

When I was finally excited about my future. I didn’t decide until my junior year of college that I wanted to go to vet school, but when I did make that decision, I finally felt like I found my direction.

My hidden talent...

I love to draw/paint/craft!

A person who has inspired me...

My sister! Casey was also a biochemistry major and is now a Physician’s Assistant in addition to a new mom. She has had so many accomplishments in her life, yet still is the most humble, kind, and genuine person I know. Fun fact: she was the first person to suggest I go to vet school and was my biggest supporter in making that decision.

Biggest misconception about being a veterinarian/public health student…

That we all have the same career goals. Each of us is so different and have our own unique interests. There are so many different paths you can take as a DVM. The great thing about vet school is the support and motivation we get to explore those different paths and find the one best suited for us.

If I had a superpower, it would be...

A photographic memory to store all the PowerPoint slides.

My no-fail, go-for-it motivational song...

This One’s for the Girls by Martina McBride

The course project/study you're most excited about…

The Next Generation, I love all things therio!

What excites me the most about the future of my industry....

I am so excited that veterinary medicine is evolving and being more greatly appreciated by the public. There are so many new diagnostic and therapeutic technologies developing, and it is so exciting to be starting my journey at this time.

Favorite way to end the day...

Reading a chapter of a book.

Top of my bucket list...

Run a marathon.

How many pets do you have? Types?

I have a 5 year old golden retriever named Max and a 3 year old kitty named Texas.