Sarah Dickerson has dedicated her career to caring for some unique animal species. After earning her biology degree at TU, she completed veterinary school in 2023 and is now serving as a veterinary intern at the Phoenix Zoo—an important step in accomplishing her lifelong dream.

The one-year internship, which she began in July 2025, allows Dickerson to work alongside the zoo’s veterinary team while preparing to apply for competitive residency programs in zoological medicine. These residencies, typically three years long, provide the specialized training needed to become a board-certified expert in the field.

“At the Phoenix Zoo, I’m gaining experience as a clinical veterinarian for a wide variety of zoological species,” Dickerson says. “Every day is different—routine exams, rechecks, lab work, wellness care and emergencies with animals ranging from reptiles and birds to big cats, giraffes, rhinos and primates.”

Sarah Dickerson tending to the health of an orangatang

Among her most memorable experiences so far has been assisting with the care of an orangutan diagnosed with a cancerous tumor. While the case was primarily managed by the zoo’s medical director, Dickerson played a vital supporting role during the animal’s second surgery, assisting with the anesthesia needed to remove the mass.

I had a great experience [at TU] and know my opportunities there played a big role in getting me into vet school...The support from my professors at TU was such an important part of my journey.

Sarah Dickerson

She credits her time at TU with setting her on this path. Dickerson participated in a study abroad trip to Peru led by biology professor Harald Beck, later joining him to help establish the gliding mammal lab. She was also active in TU’s music department as a percussion ensemble member, which helped her become more well-rounded and stand out during the veterinary school application process.

“I had a great experience [at TU] and know my opportunities there played a big role in getting me into vet school,” Dickerson says. “The support from my professors at TU was such an important part of my journey.”