Awards issued prior to january 20, 2025, were funded under previous administrations and may not reflect the priorities and policies of the current administration.** the animal science major at rutgers…

Awards issued prior to january 20, 2025, were funded under previous administrations and may not reflect the priorities and policies of the current administration.** the animal science major at rutgers university has had increased recruitment and enrollment of students from underserved and underrepresented groups between 2019-2023. However, there were disproportionately fewer number of veterinary medical school application service (VMCAS) applications and admissions to DVM programs. The rutgers university veterinary learning and preparation program (RU-VETLEAP) ISA single function education projectthat will have singular focus on 1) increasing the number of B.S. Prevet students from underrepresented communities that are successful inbeing accepted into DVM programs, and 2) increasing the number of B.S. Lab animal science and equine and production animal science students that enter careers in USDA mission critical areas of food, agriculture, and human and animal health thus enhancing the diversity of USDA workforce. Timelyopportunities in global engagement (study abroad) opportunities, veterinary clinical experiences, research opportunities, rigorous academic mentoring, and leadership skills training will be provided to pre-veterinary students. The program's timeline is distributed over the baccalaureate program along with structured summer semesters, allowing students to integrate their academic and experiential learning seamlessly. The program's projected outcomes include increasing the number of VMCAS applications from underrepresented students by 50% in 5 years; enhancing GPA and entrance parameters; providing a minimum of 500 high quality experiential learning hours; ensuring 1:1 mentorship with a variety of faculty, staff, and veterinary professionals; and boosting global engagement participation by 30%, thus achieving a 90% placement rate for qualified applicants into DVM programs. RU-VETLEAP is an endeavor that not only aspires to bridge the educational GAP for underrepresented communities but also equips them to be competitive in the global veterinary field.