A Charles Sturt University (CSU) student will join an elite group of international veterinary science students in a prestigious study program in the United Kingdom (UK).

 

Ms Michaela Woolford from Narrabri in northern NSW has been selected from students around the globe to fill one of a limited number of places in the nine-week Veterinary Science Summer School at the University of Cambridge in the UK from Sunday 19 June.

Describing her selection as a ‘great opportunity’, the 5^th year Bachelor of Veterinary Biology/ Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) student from CSU in Wagga Wagga will use the residential school to complete her Honours research project into the pathogenesis of norovirus in laboratory mice. This research will ultimately be used to further an understanding of norovirus infection in humans.

 

“Each of the 15 veterinary science students selected for the Summer School will work under the supervision of international academics,” Ms Woolford said. “I will be supervised by University of Cambridge’s Dr Barbara Blacklaws. I will also attend workshops and seminars and give a presentation on my Honours project and Charles Sturt University.”

 

After the Summer School, the CSU student will do three weeks work at a veterinary practice in the Scottish Highlands city of Inverness before travelling in the UK.

 

“I hope to forge a career in veterinary pathology. I am confident this wonderful chance to study at the University of Cambridge will further open my mind to the opportunities available in my chosen career.”

 

Head of the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences at CSU in Wagga Wagga Professor Nick Sangster said, “This is a wonderful opportunity for Michaela. It is not only a reward for her hard work and excellent results, but it will open doors for her career.”

 

“Michaela will also wave the Charles Sturt University flag. The University’s veterinary program is new and unique. International exposure for our students and our program is an important step in us becoming recognised as a leader in veterinary education and research.”

 

Ms Woolford’s attendance at the Veterinary Science Summer School at the University of Cambridge from 19 June to 20 August, including travel and living costs, is sponsored by The Wellcome Trust.

 

She will receive a Travel Grant from CSU Global for a clinical placement at the Veterinary Clinic at Inverness in Scotland from 22 August to 9 September 2011. Read here for more about CSU Global’s initiatives to promote international study experiences.