National Vet Tech Week Spotlight: Ahriel Kemp

1. Tell us about your background, how long you’ve been at AMCMA and what brought you here?
   I graduated from North Technical High School’s Veterinary Assistant Program which led me to Jefferson College’s Veterinary Technology Program of which I graduated from in 2019. During my time in college, I had to pick a clinic to intern with for a summer between school years and chose the Humane Society of Missouri. I left around October 2020 to experience emergency medicine at another clinic and came back in April of 2022. So I suppose in total, I’ve now been here for almost two years now.
    
2. How long have you been a Registered Veterinary Technician and what was that process like?
   I’ve been a RVT for approximately 3 years. The process of becoming an RVT is not as bad as it may seem, but I do believe that it takes a tremendous amount of dedication to obtain the actual title. There is a ton of information to remember because you’re learning about ALL domesticated animals. You have to know their anatomy, disease processes and treatment types. The test to pass (VTNE) is hard but there are helpful study tools to help you become successful.
    
3. In your view, what is the role of a Registered Veterinary Technician within the clinic?
   The role of the RVT, in my opinion is to assist the Veterinarian in the treatment of their patients. We do most of the physical work while the Dr. does most of the important planning, researching and reassessing based off the data presented. If able, I suppose a RVT could assist a Vet with decisions and changes in treatment based on our own knowledge and what we see when treating and assisting patients.
    
4. What is your favorite part about being an RVT?
   The satisfaction of helping animals that need the assistance. Also, the different areas or subjects we could specialize in to grow our passions can be very exciting.
    
5. What do you feel is the most challenging part of being an RVT?
   The multitude of information to remember. Also, for me, confidence in your own ability can be challenging, along with multitasking.
    
6. What is your favorite species/breed of animal to work with?
   Dogs. I love working with dogs.
    
7. Do you have any pets at home?
   Of course. I have a crazy 6-year-old Shih Tzu who I love dearly and a newly adopted 3-year-old cat. My dog’s name is Peanut while my cat is named Edgar. They are both amazing by themselves, but Peanut is not the most social creature, so it’s kind of fun seeing how she figures out how to interact with a cat.
    
8. What do you like to do in your free time?
   I like to catch up on the most recent shows and movies, play board/card games, and socialize with friends.

The Animal Medical Center of Mid-America has veterinarians at three locations that can answer questions about your pet’s health. Call 314.951.1534 to schedule an appointment.