Veterinary Assistant Standout Student

Margarita Daley

Twenty years ago, Margarita Daley completed a veterinary assistant program at Norfolk County Agricultural School.  Shortly thereafter, she pursued a career in the field, but had to put it on hold as one of her children had severe allergies and being around pets at work aggravated his condition.  Once her children were grown, Margarita saw the opportunity to go back to the career she really loved.  She registered for the Veterinary Assistant Certificate program at Massasoit Community College.

Margarita recalls that going back to school was intimidating.  She had been away from the field for so long and was concerned that employers would not give her a chance.  Veterinary Assistant instructor, Andrea Gouthro, encouraged her to have confidence based on what she learned in the program.  Andrea also encouraged Margarita to apply for a job as a receptionist at Driftway Animal Hospital in Scituate.  This encouragement, coupled with support from her husband and family, gave Margarita the confidence to secure the job that she started in February of 2019, just a month after starting the Veterinary Assistant program.

Margarita graduated from the Veterinary Assistant program in May 2019 and has already been given additional responsibilities at work.  She plans to continue her education in the veterinary field, perhaps as a surgical technician.  To students thinking about taking the Veterinary Assistant Certificate program, Margarita shares: “It’s well worth it.  It gives you a look at the veterinary field as a whole.  You come out of it with confidence and a clear vision of where you can go in terms of next steps.”