Biology and Chinese studies major learns how to incorporate traditional medicines in veterinary practice

The summer before her senior year, Nurain Amier ’26, a biology and Chinese studies major with minors in environmental studies and music at The College of Wooster, had the opportunity to work at the Veterinary Associates Hospital in Xenia, Ohio. Through an APEX Fellowship, Amier ’26 observed acupuncture treatments on small animals, horses, and farm animals, accumulated experience in animal care, and explored integrative medicine in a hands-on environment.  

“My APEX Fellowship experience was an incredibly amazing opportunity to explore something I never thought possible today.”
—Nurain Amier ’26 

FINDING OPPORTUNITIES 

Amier: I learned about my internship opportunity through my professor, Dr. Margaret Ng Wee-Siang, who introduced me to the vet, Dr. Brett Ellis. This position was a particularly good fit for me because I have been curious about how Chinese medicine is still used and applied today, especially in veterinary medical settings. As a pre-vet student, I was very intrigued to learn how Chinese medicine is helping with treatments of pain and illnesses in various small and large animals.  

LESSONS LEARNED  

Amier: One skill that I worked on was observation, and this is a skill I see myself carrying forward in my career. In order to assess what health problem an animal has, I saw that the vet does not only listen to the heart and lungs or other organs but also checks the animals’ teeth, takes their pulse, assesses the color of the tongue, and looks for areas of inflammation, excessive heat, or coolness throughout the body; I tried to do the same with each appointment I observed. Overall, having sharp observation skills is critical for ensuring the best treatment to help an animal. 

GUIDANCE FOR GROWTH 

Amier: My fellowship mentor was Jamie Adler, the pre-health advisor. She helped me reflect on the experience and provided encouragement for what I could improve throughout my internship to maximize the knowledge and skills I gained. 

Nurain Amier, photo provided by subject.

EXPANDED PERSPECTIVE 

Amier: This internship has really solidified my plans to learn Chinese medicine and apply it into my future practice as a veterinarian. I never realized that acupuncture and Chinese herbs are still used and can be beneficial in enhancing treatment and care for various animals, ranging from dogs and cats to horses and livestock. I had such a fun and memorable time and gained a lot of new insights! 

Featured image: Nurain Amier ’26, photo provided by subject.

Posted in Experiential Learning on August 6, 2025.