Jason Pieper, who will graduate from Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2009, spent six years in the Navy and worked as a chef in the Clinton White House before embarking on a career in veterinary medicine.
   As a veterinarian, Pieper hopes to work in a small animal practice in Nebraska, although he has enjoyed working with larger animals during a veterinary mission to Honduras and a veterinary expedition to South Africa.
   As a veterinarian, Pieper looks forward to a career, which — as he says — will enable him to make a difference in people’s lives, “Not only by taking care of their animals,” Pieper explained, “but also to be there to help people cope with the ups and downs that can happen at times as a pet owner.”

Question: When did you know you wanted to be a veterinarian?
I had just finished serving in the Navy and was a restaurant manager and found an ad for a veterinary technician position. I figured, what the heck, I will try it. After working there for six months, I decided that I wanted to go to veterinary school.

Question: What were the main influences in that decision?
Honestly, it was just kind of dumb luck. I always enjoyed science and figured it would be a good career. I loved the medical aspect, and I caught on to the job really fast. I also talked to the veterinarians who worked there and they were all very supportive of me, which made it easier to believe I could do it. I saw how much the veterinarians enjoyed their work. [After] seeing the relationships the veterinarians had with their clients and patients it seemed like the type of career I wanted to pursue.

Question: How would you describe your experience as a medical student?
I have enjoyed it very much though it has been quite stressful at times. I was surprised at how mentally demanding it has been, and what an emotional rollercoaster [it is] at times.

Question: Do you have pets of your own?
I have a 15-year old miniature Doberman Pinscher/Chihuahua mix, a 10-month-old calico cat, and a 2-year-old ball python.

Question: Who is your role model?
My father has always been a role model because of the way he has always worked very hard his whole life to give his family a good life.