Road to Graduation | Makenna Snodgrass
From Emergency Room Dreams to General Practice Reality
As the Class of 2026 nears the finish line, we're continuing our Road to Graduation series with soon-to-be Dr. Makenna Snodgrass, who is heading into general practice with a renewed appreciation for the role GP veterinarians play in urgent, everyday care.
Snodgrass didn't always picture herself in general practice, but her experiences in clinical year not only changed her perspective on the variety of cases it offers but, ultimately, her career trajectory.
"Coming into vet school, I was positive I was going to pursue emergency and critical care, but my clinical year really changed my career path. I saw how many urgent cases are brought into GP practices, providing a break from the typical appointments that general practitioners see."
The opportunity to work in real clinics and see what normal practice experience offers, opened her eyes to new opportunities. "I predominantly went to GP clinics during my clinical year, so I feel like I have a good foundation going into practice after graduation," she said.
Like so many other new grads, Makenna is looking ahead to finding her footing in the profession and challenging the imposter syndrome so many experience. "I don't think I feel 100% ready for practice, but I think that's normal for a new grad. I was fortunate to find a practice that offers great mentorship and a close network of veterinarians."
Snodgrass will begin her career at Lovet White Tanks, and staying in Arizona was never really a question. "I was born and raised in Arizona, so I wanted to stay and give back to the community I was raised in," she said.
What's Ahead
After years of exams, rotations, and long clinical days, Snodgrass is ready for the part of the job she's been working toward all along.
"After all the years of schooling, I am excited about finally starting to practice medicine. I am excited to have the opportunity to build relationships with my future clients and patients. There are so many career paths that are open to us after graduation, so there is always room for growth and change."
Before she starts that next chapter, though, there's a celebration in order. Snodgrass plans to take some time to settle into her new townhouse with her boyfriend and two cats, followed by a week-long trip to California right after graduation.