Name: Skie Miller

Degree: Associate in Applied Science in Veterinary Technology

Current Position: Veterinary Assistant

Background: Skie graduated from York County Community College (YCCC) in 2024 with an Associate of Applied Science in Veterinary Technology and Small Business Management Certificate. Although Skie always loved animals, his career path became clear when YCCC introduced their Veterinary Technology program.

Career Progression: A lifelong animal lover, Skie has cared for sick frogs for years to support local conservation efforts. This on-going work helped him decide that he wanted to know more about clinical work so that he could provide additional care. This desire led him to YCCC’s Veterinary Technology program where he could learn and develop these skills. While at YCCC, Skie completed on campus labs and two practicums at local clinics which allowed him to work with a variety of animals and gain the experience he desired. Skie’s hard work resulted in a job offer prior to graduation with his current employer, Southern Maine Veterinary Care, where he is happily employed. Skie will take the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) this summer when he will receive his national certification and promotion at work.

Commitment to Animal Care: Skie took time off between high school and college because he wanted to feel confident in his choice of major. It was at YCCC that Skie realized his career would be as a Veterinary Technician, and not a veterinarian, because there would be more direct contact with animals. Skie enjoys the variety in his work, which ranges from handling different types of animals to performing bloodwork, X-rays, and even reception duties, making every day unique.

Experience at York County Community College: Skie had a wonderful experience at YCCC stating, “I loved the hands-on labs, the staff, faculty, and students. The college was a great environment, and the required practicums were a great experience.” Department chair Dr. Julie Bodkin said about Skie, “Skie was a remarkable student in all his classes during his time in the Veterinary Technology Program. He brought prior knowledge of numerous non-traditional species that he has taken care of both in his home and in clinics. When given the opportunity in class or for a project, he always chose unique case examples and often taught me new things along the way. His future clinic is very fortunate to have him as a thoughtful and dedicated team member!”

Conclusion: Skie’s gap years between high school and YCCC allowed him to determine his career path and commit to his studies. Skie advises prospective students to attend every lab, be diligent with study habits and scheduling, attend study sessions and ask questions no matter how scared you may be because all the faculty want to help you succeed.