Senior Exit Project (SEP)

Shadowing for Vail School District Seniors

At Reata Veterinary Hospital, we are proud to support local high school students as they complete their Senior Exit Project (SEP) through the Vail School District. Our team welcomes motivated students who are exploring careers in veterinary medicine, animal health, or related fields.

What Is the SEP?

The Senior Exit Project is a Vail School District graduation requirement that provides seniors with the opportunity to explore their career interests through real-world, mentor-based experiences. At Reata, SEP students complete their required hours through a structured shadowing experience, observing our veterinary team as they provide care to animals and support our clients.

What to Expect

SEP students will be paired with a designated mentor and spend their shadowing hours observing daily hospital operations. While this is a non-participatory, observational experience, students gain valuable insight into:

  • The roles of veterinarians, technicians, and support staff
  • Patient care and wellness services
  • Client communication and hospital workflow
  • Career paths within veterinary medicine

SEP students may observe both small animal and equine care, depending on scheduling and staff availability.

Who Is Eligible?

To participate in the SEP at Reata, students must:

  • Be a senior currently enrolled in the Vail School District
  • Be at least 16 years old
  • Have an interest in veterinary, animal care, or related fields
  • Submit a signed liability waiver and follow all hospital guidelines

A limited number of SEP placements may be available for students interested in non-clinical areas, such as administration or marketing. Applicants pursuing these focus areas should indicate their interest in these areas in their application.

Scheduling and Availability

SEP hours are typically completed in half-day or full-day blocks during weekday business hours. Due to the nature of veterinary medicine, all shadowing must be scheduled in advance—we do not permit drop-ins.

Due to high interest and limited availability, we recommend applying as early as possible in the school year to secure your spot and allow for scheduling flexibility.

**Due to high demand, we are currently fully booked until August 2026. ** If you have a request for shadowing before August 2026, please apply to [email protected], and if a spot becomes available, we will reach out to you.

How to Apply

To request an SEP placement, please email the following to [email protected]:

  • A brief statement of interest (1–2 paragraphs)
  • Your career focus or area of interest
  • Your preferred dates or general availability
  • Contact information (including phone number and school name)
  • Please include “SEP Request” in your subject line.

Why Choose Reata for Your SEP?

As a locally owned, teaching-focused veterinary hospital serving dogs, cats, and horses, Reata offers a unique and inspiring look into modern animal care. Our team is passionate about mentorship and committed to helping students explore their potential as future animal professionals.

We’re honored to support the Vail School District’s mission to prepare students for life after graduation—and we look forward to meeting you!