From Lemonade Stands to Vet School: The Rise of Micah Howze
At just 23 years old, Micah Howze is already making her mark on the future of veterinary medicine. A second-year student at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (Class of 2028), Micah brings with her not only academic drive but also a deep sense of community, resilience, and purpose.
Originally from Ridgeway, South Carolina, Micah earned her bachelor’s degree in Animal & Veterinary Sciences from Clemson University in 2023 before pursuing her veterinary education. Today, she serves as the Access, Opportunity, and Success representative for her class and the social media chair for the National Association for Black Veterinarians (NABV) student chapter. Her involvement on campus and beyond reflects her commitment to creating a more inclusive profession while also serving her community back home.
Resilience and Gratitude Along the Journey
Micah credits her success to the belief that “delayed is not denied.” That advice, she says, reframed setbacks as redirections, reminding her that every path in veterinary medicine is unique. It is a lesson she carries into each stage of her training, approaching challenges with gratitude and determination rather than comparison.
That resilience is something she learned early on from her grandmother, whom she deeply admires for her strength in raising two children as a single mother while juggling multiple jobs and returning to school. Micah draws inspiration from that same perseverance, shaping her own approach to life, academics, and her future career.
Building Balance and Purpose
Despite the demands of veterinary school, Micah finds ways to protect her own well-being. Baking, yoga, and trips to the gym help her reset after stressful days, while binge-watching her favorite shows provides a chance to switch off and recharge. These practices, she admits, are part of her broader commitment to maintaining balance—something she sees as crucial in a field often challenged by burnout and mental health strain.
“Burnout is one of the biggest problems facing veterinary medicine today,” Micah says, recognizing the profession’s need for better support systems, resources, and work-life balance. Her willingness to confront these realities reflects a broader generational shift in how young veterinarians view career sustainability.
A Mission to Serve
Micah’s long-term mission is clear: to serve both animals and people. She is drawn to mixed animal practice and exotics, but her vision extends beyond clinical care. She hopes to one day open her own practice and return to her hometown of Ridgeway, where veterinary access is limited. There, she aims not only to provide medical care but also to educate and empower underserved communities about the importance of animal health.
Her passion also extends to animal welfare and environmental conservation, emphasizing the need for greater appreciation of nature and the role animals play in our daily lives. Through education, legislation, and local advocacy, she hopes to help drive change that safeguards the bond between humans, animals, and the environment.
Looking Ahead
In five years, Micah envisions herself as a practicing veterinarian and an emerging clinic owner, while continuing to mentor and inspire the next generation of underrepresented students entering the profession. Her journey—from a lemonade stand in her childhood to veterinary leadership roles today—is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and a clear sense of purpose.
“Finding your purpose gives direction and meaning to everything you do,” Micah says. For her, that purpose lies in fostering healthier animals, stronger communities, and a more inclusive veterinary profession.
