Road to Graduation | Ashton Hutcherson
Celebrating our Class of 2025 VetCats
As part of our Road to Graduation series, we’re celebrating the incredible journeys of our Class of 2025 as they prepare to embark on their careers. Each student’s story is unique, filled with hard work, resilience, and passion for veterinary medicine. Today, we are highlighting Ashton Brooke Hutcherson who is ready to take on the world of small animal practice with confidence and compassion.
What are your career plans after graduation?
“I’m so excited to start my career in general practice! I think it’s a great place to get started and find my footing, as I’ll get to see a little bit of everything. It will also help me identify and develop my interests, such as working up sick patients, exotics, clinical pathology, and cytology.”
Do you know where you’ll be working?
“I will be working at the Downtown Animal Care Center in Denver, Colorado!!!”
How did your educational experiences influence your career path?
“My education at U of A helped me discover what I truly love about veterinary medicine, while also giving me the freedom to explore areas that weren't the right fit for me (sorry, large animal!). I really valued the opportunity to experience both small and large animal medicine—it helped me gain a broader perspective and shaped me into a more well-rounded, open-minded veterinary professional. Being part of such an innovative and growing program was incredibly rewarding. The CVM challenged me, supported me, and ultimately guided me toward a career I’m genuinely passionate about.”
What excites you most about your future opportunities?
“What excites me most is being part of a field that’s constantly evolving. Veterinary medicine never stands still—there are always new technologies, treatments, and diagnostics that make us better advocates for animals. It’s inspiring to be part of a profession that’s not only growing in knowledge, but also in compassion, inclusivity, and client communication. I’m excited to continue learning every day, to be challenged, and to grow alongside this ever-changing field while doing what I love: helping pets and the people who love them.”
What advice would you give to a first-year student?
“Veterinary school isn’t easy—but it’s worth it. Start networking during Year 1—those relationships will help you get a job and make friends within the vet field. Take good notes and save them somewhere safe—you will refer to them during NAVLE prep, clinical year, and beyond. Your professors are there to help you and they are some of the best people you’ll meet—use them, love them, and appreciate them! Make time to take care of yourself—don’t lose yourself in pre-work and studying at the cost of your physical and mental health. Be inclusive and supportive to your friends. Join clubs. Have fun on the weekends and explore as much as possible.”
Stay tuned for more stories from our Road to Graduation series, where we celebrate the determination and dreams of the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2025.