Rising Star: Sydney Long’s Journey from FFA to Future Veterinarian in Streator

Sydney Long of Streator FFA has been named the 2024 State Proficiency winner in Veterinary Science. As part of her Veterinary Science Placement SAE, Long has worked at Countryside Veterinary Clinic in Streator for three years, each year maintaining a separate record book detailing her experiences.

In 2020, Long observed various surgeries and procedures in the field of veterinary medicine as part of her job shadow experience. In 2021, she began focusing on pre-veterinary assistant tasks such as restraining animals and assisting in the exam room. Finally, starting in 2023, Long took on responsibilities as a veterinary assistant, including running bloodwork, assisting in surgeries, and operating the X-ray machine.

Long’s ultimate goal is to become a large and small animal veterinarian. Through her SAE, she has gained valuable skills in time management, dedication, and the intricacies of veterinary medicine. Sydney is the daughter of Jennifer Long Schumaker.