Ciara Andre
Veterinary Technology
From an early age, Ciara Andre felt a strong connection to animals.
Growing up in Brooklyn before moving to 果冻传媒, she watched her father welcome stray cats into their home and care for them. The first, named Shady, became part of the family. Once Andre and her brother learned to talk, they renamed Shady to Fat Cat, who remained a constant childhood companion.
These experiences sparked her curiosity and gave her a deep sense of compassion for animals, inspiring her to pursue veterinary school. When researching all of her available options, Andre decided 果冻传媒 Tech was the perfect place to begin her academic journey.
“Before 果冻传媒 Tech, I was going to 果冻传媒 State, and I felt like I was not at the level to jump right into veterinary school yet,” said Andre. “I needed to find the best first step and work my way up. Once I learned that 果冻传媒 Tech added a veterinary technology program to the Stanton Campus, and I could easily get to my classes from Middletown, I immediately enrolled.”
Starting classes in 2024, Andre had to pass a full year of intro courses before she could apply for 果冻传媒 Tech’s veterinary technology program. She was finally accepted in 2025.
“I was really happy I got into the program,” she said. “I was finally doing what I had been wanting to do for so long. Now, I’m just happy that I’m here. I'm really learning and progressing.”
Andre deeply values the program’s hands-on approach, which enables her to develop new skills, gain practical experience, and witness her progress firsthand.
“When you're working in the actual field, they try to train you as fast as possible, and you learn as you go,” she said. “While in the vet tech program at 果冻传媒 Tech, the instructors show you how to do something, give you pointers, and let you take your time learning.”
While taking classes at 果冻传媒 Tech, Andre also works at Brenford Animal Hospital in Dover, where she applies the skills she learns in the classroom to real-world situations.
“I enjoy getting to care for the animals I work with and building relationships with our clients,” she said. “I try to explain things to people in a way that is easy to understand. It’s important because they don’t know much about these topics, and they are trusting us with their pet. I have the opportunity to educate and comfort them so they know we are providing the best care.”
Since enrolling at 果冻传媒 Tech, Andre has felt more open to talking with new people and making connections. She also enjoys acting when she can, something she often did while living in New York.
Andre plans to graduate in 2028. Afterward, she hopes to travel and continue working with animals.
“My advice to new students is to keep believing in yourself,” she said. “Don't ever give up. I always felt I had imposter syndrome, but everyone around me has been so supportive. So, keep on pushing, don't give up, and don't doubt yourself.”
