I knew I wanted to become a veterinarian at a very young age and to this day I am convinced that there is no better career than working with our animal friends. I am also proud to be a member of the AVMA. Our professional organization works diligently to represent our profession to the public, and provides a unified voice for our concerns relating to issues which affect human and animal health.

The unique experiences I have had through my participation in various AVMA programs have, in time, impacted my professional activities. I served as an AVMA Governmental Relations Division extern in Washington, D.C. and was selected as a runner-up for their Congressional Fellowship Program. Working on Capitol Hill, I was exposed to the workings of the legislative process, and where I developed the communication skills to best allow me to interact with policymakers who are making important decisions affecting our profession.

Today, I still work in various outreach activities. I often develop workshops related to veterinary health issues for my house call clients, lecture to local animal hospitals on various aspects of alternative medicine, and frequently consult with press. In addition, I compose original music and perform with a charity group of animal-health professionals, Pet-Rox. This year marks our eleventh anniversary of benefit shows which have helped raise funds for small and large organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the ASPCA.

I credit the AVMA with allowing me the special opportunities to explore some of my varied interests relating to the world of veterinary medicine and continue to draw on these very rich experiences.

AVMA Externship & Fellowship Programs
The AVMA offers opportunities to students and active members through the externship and fellowship programs. Externs learn about both the federal legislative and regulatory process. AVMA Fellows help veterinarians garner a better understanding of the governmental process while assisting in creating the legislation and regulations that affect our nation and profession. For Dr. Levy, these experiences taught him the skills he needed to be even more successful in his veterinary practice.