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Larry Young describes his busy workweek, discusses what he likes best about his job and provides recommendations for students thinking of entering the lab animal field.

Tell us how you transitioned into the laboratory animal science field.

During my training in nursing school we had pretty limited laboratory animal medicine exposure. I wanted to know more about the field, so I took an opening at Stanford University as a direct caregiver. Over the years I worked my way into the clinical and surgical services department, focusing on anesthesia. I really enjoyed the experience and very much appreciated the support of my mentors there. About 10 years into that, I received a call from the administration at San Jose State University, offering me a job in my current role as animal care program manager.

As the Manager of the Animal Care Program of San Jose State University, what is a typical workday like for you?

I can't say that any particular day is typical, but each day I focus on performing my duties in clinical rounds and providing laboratory support. I also spend a substantial amount of time managing our IACUC and vivarium operations. We do a fair amount of field work here as part of our animal care program as well, and I get an opportunity to work in the field with investigators. Student teaching is big here, as is building relationships with investigators. So, it's a full workweek.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your job?

I think the most rewarding aspect has to be interacting with students. Students have limited knowledge about laboratory animal care and overall experience with the use of animals. As members of the clinical staff, we are able to help the students build their confidence and we provide them with a foundation in proper animal care and use. Over the years, I have continued to mentor past students as they continue their own careers, as well as members of my own staff. Mentoring others is like returning what was once given to me. Our department also opens a position each year for undergraduate students who are considered pre-vet track. We provide our student assistants with opportunities for exposure to the research and teaching fields. We have had veterinarians who were once student assistants come back and thank us so much for these opportunities. That in itself is a reward.

What are your future professional goals?

I'm fairly confident that I'm exactly where I want to be professionally. However, I plan to continue networking and to continue to improve the animal care program at San Jose State University. In our field, we need to strive to learn and grow and do what we can to promote the health and well-being of the animals. I have to admit that I look forward to continuing education opportunities as well. I'm always asking myself: what's on the horizon, what's the next opportunity, where else can I learn, what else can I bring back to the program? As far as what I'm doing professionally, I'm happy to say that I'm right where I want to be.

Do you have any recommendations for students who are thinking of joining the laboratory animal field?

Absolutely. There is certainly a demand for competent nurses in the field. But I also see a growing need along the regulatory branch of any animal care program for veterinary technicians, so I would encourage students to explore this career path as well. I am currently working with colleagues to assemble a society for laboratory animal veterinary technicians. This society could be a guide and resource for nursing and technical professionals to explore the options within the field of laboratory animal care. I would recommend that students explore different specialties and branch out as they're learning more about the field.

Is there anything else you would like to share with Lab Animal readers?

I think it is important to emphasize that it is critical for an institution to focus on veterinary resources within the animal care program. The clinical side of the animal care program should be very visible, prohviding strong training for its users and services that are beneficial to investigators. Experience has taught me that when this happens, animal research activities run more smoothly, the data are stronger and a strong alliance can be established between the program and its users.