AVA Mentoring Program: Applications closing 1 August

Are you a recent veterinary graduate looking for guidance as you begin your professional journey? Or an experienced veterinarian eager to give back, inspire and support the next generation of colleagues? Now is the time to get involved and register for the AVA Graduate Mentoring Program, with applications closing 1 August 2025.

For over a decade, the AVA Graduate Mentoring Program has played a vital role in shaping the future of the veterinary profession. Running over a 12-month period, the program connects new and recent graduates with experienced veterinarians in a trusted, one-on-one mentoring relationship. Program participation is free and open exclusively to AVA members.

Whether you’re a mentor or mentee, the benefits of being involved are lasting and impactful.

“We know that mentees who have a mentor tend to have better job security, they often end up getting paid more and are more likely to reach higher positions,” said Dr Rebecca Faris, AVA Executive Officer – Wellness.

“They have better confidence, perspective and overall professional happiness – which translates to improved wellbeing.”

 ^{Dr Rebecca Faris, AVA Executive Officer – Wellness}

Through the program, mentees gain guidance on professional development, clinical decision-making, navigating complex workplace dynamics, and managing the unique challenges of veterinary practice life. For mentors, it’s also a chance to give back, reflect on their own professional growth, and build leadership skills.

Dr Holly Yang, AVA member and practising veterinarian, says she has seen huge value in connecting with someone who sees the world differently.

“A lot of people think they want a mentor who’s exactly the same as they are. You absolutely do not need that, my mentor and I are not the same person,” she said.

“The thing is, you have friends and family who already know who you are, who might be similar to you and can give you advice but it’s nice to have someone who is a little bit different that can give you different opinions and things that you haven’t really thought about.”

^{Dr Holly Yang, former mentee of AVA Mentoring Program}

She added that the value of an external mentor cannot be overstated.

“Everyone’s so busy in the clinic, you can be a little bit afraid to ask questions sometimes, and a lot of the time you think ‘oh I don’t want to embarrass myself by asking silly questions, what if they think I’m stupid? Why does he or she not know that already, they’ve been through vet school, they should know this by now’. But at the end of the day, everyone needs help at some point.”

The AVA Graduate Mentoring Program fosters confidence, resilience, and a sense of community within the veterinary profession. By building strong mentoring relationships, we help ensure veterinary careers start on the right foot.

You can register to be a mentee or mentor yourself or share this link with someone you think would benefit from the program. Applications close Friday 1 August 2025.