November 2023 MentorVet Tech Mentor of the Month: Shannon Thompson, RVT
Shannon Thompson, RVT, is a fabulous MentorVet Tech mentor. As a part of her over 30 years experience vet med, she is the former CEO of RVTTC and was an author/contributor for the 2023 AAHA VT Utilization Guidelines. Read below some of her personal insight on mentoring and why she wants to be a part of this community! We are so grateful for her!
Shannon Thompson, RVT
MentorVet Tech Mentor
Our team shared: “Her generosity in sharing her time, energy, and knowledge is unparalleled. She is well known, respected, and liked throughout our profession.”
Shannon, tell us a little bit about your career journey. What do you currently do in veterinary medicine and how did you end up here?
Oh my gosh! Where do I start? I am a farm girl at heart and similar to many didn't know of other career options other than a veterinarian. I did know that 8 years of university was not in my best interest! I am truly blessed to have an amazing RVT career over the past 32 years and I am not done yet!! My RVT career has included general veterinary practice of small animal, bovine and equine care, emergency & critical care medicine, and referral specialties in ophthalmology and dentistry. My passion was truly a highlight when I could share and help others achieve their greatness! As an educator, it was an honor to work with students to develop their skills and take their passion on a journey and then to meet RVTs across Canada sharing their journey! It is the people who are my passion!
Why did you choose to be involved with MentorVet?
I can relate to the passion that drives an RVT, the good, the great and the not-so-much. I have had the benefit of many mentors along my journey that really made a difference for me and I want to share that you are not alone!!! Sometimes it was information, or encouragement or the push I needed, they were all so meaningful for me. I want to pay it forward. We are stronger together!
Will you share an example of something you and your mentee have discussed?
The challenges of balancing family with career progress are different than those without families. Conversations can be challenging within a team if you are the only one with a family - how to connect and not feel like an outsider can be challenging in some teams. Working hard in a team, supporting others and it is not shared or acknowledged. How do you decide if you stay or if you look for another team?
What is the most enjoyable aspect of being a mentor?
When they smile :) when they call to chat, when they are open and comfortable with their choices.
What is one thing that you have learned through your time mentoring for MentorVet Tech?
The difference mentoring makes, no matter what stage we are in our journey, we all thrive with connections.
What is the best piece of advice that you have ever received from a mentor or the best piece of advice that you have ever given?
You are appreciated more than you know! You are only limited by your imagination!!
Would you recommend volunteering as a mentor for MentorVet to other Veterinarians and Credential Veterinary Technicians?
MentorVet is a fantastic community! Highly recommended!
What is your favorite self-care activity?
Soaking in a bath :)
Thank you for sharing with us, Shannon!
We are so grateful for her support in MentorVet Tech!