Are You Ready for Adventure Continuing Education ?
Continuing Education (CE) is a must for veterinarians, but let’s be honest—sitting in a conference room for hours on end isn’t exactly thrilling. What if you could combine your CE requirements with adventure, travel, and meaningful experiences? Here are three ways to make your CE more exciting, including one that lets you give back while you learn.
1. Attend Destination Conferences and Workshops
Why not turn your CE into a mini-vacation? Many veterinary conferences and workshops are held in stunning locations around the world. From beachside seminars in Hawaii to mountain retreats in the Swiss Alps, these events offer the perfect blend of learning and leisure.
Pro Tip: Look for conferences that include hands-on workshops or outdoor activities. For example, a wildlife medicine conference might include field trips to local conservation areas, giving you the chance to learn while exploring new environments.
2. Combine CE with Adventure Travel
Adventure travel isn’t just for thrill-seekers—it’s also a great way to earn CE credits. Many organizations offer CE courses paired with unique travel experiences. Imagine earning credits while snorkeling in the Galapagos, hiking in Patagonia, or exploring the savannas of Africa.
How It Works: Companies like Vet Expeditions or AdventureMed organize trips that combine veterinary education with once-in-a-lifetime adventures. You’ll learn about exotic animal care, global veterinary practices, and conservation efforts—all while ticking off bucket-list destinations.
3. Volunteer with IVVO (International Veterinary Volunteer Opportunities)
If you’re looking for a way to give back while earning CE credits, IVVO is the perfect option. IVVO offers volunteer opportunities that allow veterinarians to provide care to animals in underserved communities around the world. Not only will you gain hands-on experience in diverse settings, but you’ll also make a meaningful impact.
Why It’s Awesome:
Learn While You Serve: IVVO trips often include CE-approved training sessions, so you can earn credits while helping animals in need.
Cultural Immersion: You’ll work alongside local communities, gaining insight into different cultures and veterinary practices.
Adventure Built-In: Many IVVO destinations are in breathtaking locations, from the rainforests of Costa Rica to the mountains of Nepal. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore and recharge after your volunteer work.
Real-Life Example: Dr. Sarah, a small animal vet from Colorado, joined an IVVO trip to Guatemala. She spent her mornings spaying and neutering stray dogs in rural villages and her afternoons hiking through lush jungles and visiting ancient Mayan ruins. By the end of the trip, she’d earned her CE credits, made lifelong memories, and left a lasting impact on the community.
Final Thought:
CE doesn’t have to be a chore—it can be an adventure. Whether you’re attending a destination conference, embarking on an adventure travel experience, or volunteering with IVVO, there are countless ways to make your continuing education exciting and fulfilling. So, why not step out of your comfort zone, explore the world, and grow both personally and professionally? After all, life’s too short for boring CE.