Road to Graduation | Taylor Belusic

For Taylor Belusic, pursuing a career in exotic and zoological medicine wasn’t a sudden decision—it was a lifelong calling. Growing up in South Florida, she was surrounded by rich ecosystems and diverse wildlife, experiences that sparked a fascination with animals many people rarely encounter. As she completes her veterinary degree at the University of Arizona, Taylor is poised to turn that passion into a meaningful career focused on conservation, clinical care, and advancing veterinary knowledge for underrepresented species.

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What are your career plans after graduation?

"I will be specializing in exotic animal medicine at the Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital in Tucson, AZ., with a particular focus on zoological species. In addition, I aim to play an active role in captive breeding initiatives and wildlife conservation programs, contributing to the health and sustainability of both individual animals and broader ecosystems."

How did your educational experiences influence your career path?

"Throughout my academic journey, I actively pursued every opportunity to work with non-traditional species. From drawing blood from a squirrel monkey to administering injections to alligators and taking radiographs of a 9-foot python, I eagerly embraced each new challenge. The hands-on, immersive learning environment at the University of Arizona empowered me to build the skills and confidence needed to work directly with the unique species I’m passionate about."

What excites you most about your future opportunities?

"I’m most excited about contributing to the ongoing growth and understanding of exotic animal medicine. These species are often underrepresented in veterinary research and care, and I’m driven by the opportunity to help fill that gap. There's still so much to discover, and I’m thrilled to be part of a field with so much potential for innovation and impact."

How did your clinical experiences prepare you for your career in veterinary medicine?

"My clinical experiences provided the foundation I needed to transition from student to confident clinician. Working across a wide range of services—from general practice to specialty rotations and fieldwork with exotic species—taught me how to think critically, adapt quickly, and communicate effectively with both clients and colleagues. Most importantly, these experiences affirmed my passion for exotic and zoological medicine and prepared me to handle the unique challenges and rewards that come with working in this diverse and evolving field."

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What inspired your decision to stay and work in Arizona?

"I’ll be joining the team at Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital in Tucson, a clinic where I genuinely feel supported and inspired. From the beginning, the team has fostered an environment that encourages growth, learning, and collaboration. That is exactly what I need as a new veterinarian. It’s a place where I’m trusted to learn through experience, supported through challenges, and celebrated for my progress. I couldn’t imagine a better setting to start my career in exotic animal medicine."

Why did you choose to specialize in exotic animal medicine?

"My decision to specialize in exotic animal medicine is rooted in both personal passion and professional purpose. Growing up in South Florida, I was constantly surrounded by diverse wildlife and rich natural ecosystems, from iguanas in my backyard to manatees in nearby canals. That early exposure fostered a deep appreciation for the natural world and a fascination with the species many people rarely encounter. As I progressed through veterinary school and clinical training, I found myself drawn to the complexity and uniqueness of exotic and zoological medicine. Each case challenges me to think critically and adapt, and I’m motivated by the chance to improve care for these often-underrepresented animals. Specializing allows me to build the advanced expertise needed to make a real impact not only in clinical practice, but also in conservation, education, and advocacy."

What advice would you give to a first-year veterinary student?

"If you’re passionate about exotic animal medicine, take every opportunity (no matter how small) to work with unique species. Whether it’s a reptile, bird, fish, or small mammal, each experience will build your confidence, broaden your skills, and help you figure out what excites you most. Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you—seek them out! Volunteer at wildlife centers, join ZEWAC, and connect with clinicians who work in those fields. And remember, it’s okay not to know everything. Be humble, stay curious, and say yes to the things that scare you a little. That’s often where the best learning happens."