Dreams Come True: Rylee McCario Gallops Towards a Future in Veterinary Medicine at Illinois!

The air was thick with the weight of finals, but for Rylee McCario, a University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign student, an email notification would soon cut through the stress with exhilarating news. In a moment she describes as "surreal," Rylee opened her inbox to find an acceptance letter to the esteemed Illinois Veterinary College, securing her place in the Class of 2029.

It was the culmination of years of unwavering dedication, countless hours spent with animals, and a dream she'd nurtured since childhood.

Rylee's journey into the world of veterinary medicine began, as it often does, with a profound love for animals. Growing up, her loyal dog, Rosco, and mischievous cat, Millie, weren't just pets; they were her first patients, igniting a spark of curiosity and care.

This early fascination deepened into a tangible passion when, as a young girl, she volunteered at a local animal shelter. "Watching the vets and vet techs work with all types of animals, I knew that's what I wanted to do," Rylee recalls, a testament to the powerful impact of hands-on experience and observation.

While her initial passion was broad, Rylee's path narrowed with purposeful exploration.

An eye-opening internship at a mixed animal practice unveiled her particular affinity for large animal medicine. This experience, combined with her current role as a veterinary assistant at a bustling clinic, provided her with invaluable practical skills and reinforced her commitment. From routine check-ups to assisting in complex procedures, Rylee has embraced every opportunity to learn and grow, solidifying her understanding of the diverse challenges and rewards of the profession.

Beyond her practical work, Rylee has been a proactive and engaged member of the campus community.

Her involvement in organizations like the Illini Collegiate Horsemen Association allowed her to deepen her understanding of equine care, while her participation in the Pre-Vet Club provided a crucial network of peers and mentors. These experiences were not just resume builders; they were platforms for learning, sharing, and preparing for the rigorous demands of veterinary school.

For aspiring veterinarians, Rylee offers sagacious advice: "My number one piece of advice would be to get experience." She emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences—shadowing a variety of vets, working with different species, and truly understanding the breadth of the profession.

She also champions the power of networking and finding mentors who can guide and inspire. "I think it's important to find people who have done it before you and just ask them for advice," she suggests, highlighting the value of shared wisdom.

As Rylee looks ahead to her time at the Illinois Veterinary College, her vision is clear.

She plans to pursue a mixed animal practice after graduation, with a specific focus on large animals. Her dream is to be out in the field, working directly with livestock and equines, making a tangible difference in the health and well-being of these magnificent creatures. Her story is a shining example of passion meeting perseverance, and the Illinois Veterinary College is undoubtedly gaining an exceptional future leader in animal care.