From Engineering to Endangered Species: How Ahan Jain Found His True Calling in Veterinary Medicine

Tuskegee Vet School Class of 2027 Vice President shares his journey, his passion for wildlife medicine, and why perseverance (and humor) matter more than ever.

When Ahan Jain started college, veterinary medicine wasn’t even on the map. His early plan was clear: a career in biomedical engineering, developing prosthetics for animals—a practical choice that promised shorter schooling and less debt than veterinary medicine.

But something was missing: connection.

“I realized that spending long hours in a lab, away from animals, didn’t ignite my passion,” Ahan recalls. “I wanted to work closely with them—to advocate for them and be their voice.”

That moment changed everything. After two years in engineering, Ahan made a bold pivot to veterinary medicine. Today, as a second-year student at Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and Vice President of the Class of 2027, he is charting a path toward his ultimate calling: wildlife and conservation medicine.

The Defining Decision: Walking Away from Engineering

Leaving engineering behind wasn’t easy. It meant more years of schooling, a heavier financial burden, and a less predictable career path. But Ahan chose passion over practicality.

He credits his progress to three traits: adaptability, strong communication, and, as he puts it, “a healthy dose of stubbornness.” From working in multiple clinics to volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center, he embraced every challenge as an opportunity to grow.

“Adaptability is everything in this profession,” he says. “Every day is different, and being able to adjust quickly can make all the difference.”

Leading with Humor and Heart

As Class Vice President, Ahan is known for more than leadership and organization—he’s known for his sense of humor.

“A good laugh can break barriers,” he says. “Sometimes, a joke can turn a room full of strangers into a room full of friends.”

That ability to connect has made him a trusted voice among his peers—a skill he hopes to carry into his future work in wildlife medicine.

Wisdom That Stuck

One piece of advice from a mentor continues to guide him: Perfection may be unattainable, but striving for it will push you toward greatness. For Ahan, that pursuit must be paired with self-compassion.

“We have to give ourselves grace,” he says. “Celebrate your progress, even when you’re not perfect.”

Wildlife Medicine: The Easiest Choice He Ever Made

While choosing veterinary medicine required soul-searching, picking his specialty was effortless.

“I want to help animals flying in the sky, swimming in the ocean, and crawling in the dirt as much as the ones we let sleep in our homes,” he explains. His dream is a world where education, collaboration, and conservation allow all species—not just the cute and cuddly—to thrive.

Mission and Future Vision

Ahan’s mission is deeply personal: to make his parents proud and to inspire the next generation of wildlife veterinarians. His parents’ sacrifices as immigrants shaped his perspective and opportunities—something he carries with immense gratitude.

“In five years, I see myself working toward board certification in zoo medicine,” he says. “Beyond that, I want to contribute to conservation efforts and help others believe in themselves, just like I learned to.”

Ahan Jain is more than a future veterinarian—he’s a leader, an advocate, and a voice for species without one. His journey is proof that the road to purpose isn’t always straight, but when passion leads the way, it’s always worth the climb.