4 Things Every Vet Student Should Do at WVC Vegas 2026

Your insider guide to maximizing the biggest veterinary conference of the year

WVC Vegas isn't just another conference, it's where the future of veterinary medicine happens. With thousands of practitioners, industry leaders, and cutting-edge CE under one roof, it can feel overwhelming for vet students navigating the expo halls for the first time.

That's where Jeremiah Pouncy comes in. As a Cornell vet student and Vet Candy's official WVC Vegas Ambassador, Jeremiah has been doing his homework on how to turn this massive conference into a career launchpad. Here are his top five must-dos for any vet student heading to Vegas this year.

1. Hit the Expo Floor Early (and Often)

The exhibit hall is where connections happen, and where you'll discover products and companies you didn't even know existed. But timing matters.

"From what I've heard from students who've been before, most people wait until the afternoon when they're exhausted from CE sessions," Jeremiah explains. "But everyone says the best conversations happen in the morning when booth reps are fresh, energized, and actually have time to talk with you. That's when you can ask real questions and make genuine connections."

Pro tip: Come with business cards (yes, as a student) and a game plan. Research which companies align with your interests beforehand, and don't be shy about introducing yourself as a future practitioner.

2. Go to At Least One Session Outside Your Comfort Zone

It's tempting to stick with small animal medicine if that's your track, but WVC Vegas is your chance to explore the breadth of veterinary medicine without commitment.

"I'm planning to sign up for at least one session that's completely outside my usual interests," Jeremiah shares. "Maybe dentistry or practice management, something that might spark a new perspective on problem-solving. You never know what could change how you think about case complexity or your future career path."

Whether it's shelter medicine, practice management, equine dentistry, or veterinary technology, step outside your bubble. The CE you wouldn't normally choose might be exactly what sets you apart.

3. Network Like Your Career Depends on It (Because It Does)

This isn't about collecting business cards like Pokémon—it's about building real relationships with people who can shape your career trajectory.

"I'm setting a goal for myself to have at least three meaningful conversations per day," Jeremiah notes. "I want to talk with veterinarians about externship opportunities, learn about different practice models, and connect with residents and recent graduates. From everything I've heard, those peer connections matter just as much as meeting established practitioners."

Ask questions, share what you're passionate about, and follow up after the conference. LinkedIn exists for a reason.

4. Take Care of Yourself (Vegas is a Marathon, Not a Sprint)

The Vegas conference energy is real, but so is the exhaustion. Between back-to-back CE sessions, late-night networking, and the sensory overload of the Strip, burnout happens fast.

"I'm already planning my schedule strategically," Jeremiah admits. "I'm building in downtime, packing snacks, and giving myself permission to skip a session if I need rest. Everyone I've talked to says you can't network or learn effectively if you're running on fumes, so I'm taking that advice seriously."

Pack snacks, wear comfortable shoes (seriously), and give yourself permission to say no. The conference will still be amazing even if you don't attend every single thing.

The Bottom Line

WVC Vegas 2026 is what you make of it. Come with intention, stay open to unexpected opportunities, and remember: you belong here. Whether you're a first-year or a fourth-year, you're part of the next generation of veterinary medicine—and this conference is where you start building the career and community that will sustain you for decades.

See you in Vegas.

Want to connect with Jeremiah and other vet students heading to WVC Vegas? Join the conversation in the Vet Candy community and follow @myvetcandy on Instagram for real-time conference coverage from all four Vet Candy hosts on the ground.