Oklahoma Rural Veterinary Scholarship Winner - Siona Fuller, class of 2026
Siona Fuller, from Forgan, Oklahoma, developed a passion for veterinary medicine at a young age through hands-on experience caring for a wide variety of animals. Her interest in both small and large animal care led her to pursue rural mixed animal medicine. After graduation, she plans to join a mixed animal practice, where she will work alongside her husband and fellow veterinarians to serve rural communities.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?
I’ve wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine for as long as I can remember. Growing up, our home was known as the town’s unofficial petting zoo; if someone had an unwanted or injured animal, it somehow found its way to us. With the constant rotation of species coming through our doors, I spent much of my childhood helping my mom nurse animals back to health. As I got older, I began to understand the deeper role animals play in people’s lives. Small animals weren’t just pets; they were family members. Livestock weren’t just cattle; they were the foundation of a rancher’s livelihood. That realization shaped the way I viewed veterinary medicine.
In high school, I worked for a small animal veterinarian on weekends and during summers, which solidified my passion for the field. During my undergraduate years, I joined a mixed animal practice and immediately knew that rural mixed animal medicine was where I belonged. Although I didn’t begin my veterinary education at Oklahoma State, I was fortunate to transfer back. Oklahoma is home, and being able to continue my training here means everything to me.
What does rural veterinary medicine mean to you? What inspired you to pursue rural and/or large animal medicine?
I’m passionate about rural veterinary medicine because it’s where my roots are. Many rural communities face significant barriers when it comes to accessing consistent, high‑quality veterinary care, and I want to help close that gap. My goal is to provide not only reliable medical services, but also meaningful client education that empowers rural families, ranchers, and producers to care for the animals they depend on.
What are you most looking forward to as you will soon begin your career?
As I begin my career, I’m excited to learn from experienced veterinarians while continuing to grow through my own independent learning. I’m also looking forward to the next chapter of life as my husband and I start our “new” lives beyond school.