Alexandra Howell

Background

About Alexandra Howell

I am currently working as a Surgery Ward Nurse at the Royal Veterinary College. My previous role was ‘Deputy Head Nurse’ at Scott Veterinary Clinic in Bedford. I was lucky enough to work closely with Woburn Safari Park and have helped with a range of procedures. My career started at the age of fifteen when I contacted several surgeries in search of an apprenticeship, this was not possible but I accepted the next best thing which was an evening job at ‘Church House Veterinary Clinic’ as an evening assistant. I thoroughly enjoyed this role and worked my hardest until one day, my employer noticed my potential and offered me a position as a trainee veterinary nurse. I started training in 2008 and through hard work, determination and assistance from my colleagues, I achieved my goal of becoming a fully qualified veterinary nurse in 2014. Not long before completing my nursing qualification, I also realised that I wanted to work with zoo animals and exotic species and started to investigate what my next step would be. I found employment at ‘Scott veterinary clinic’ where I have achieved these skills and qualifications. As well as being academic and acquiring veterinary experience, I utilise good interpersonal skills and work well as part of a team. For example, I recently attended a wild animal rehabilitation centre in South Africa where I worked voluntarily to care for a mixture of exotic animals such as Lions, Rhinos, Cheetahs, Leopards, birds of prey etc. Additionally, I have completed over one hundred hours of continued professional development and using my clinical coaching skills will assist others with their training.