Three College of Veterinary Medicine fourth-year DVM students have been selected for the  2025 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Certificate of Clinical Excellence for Fourth Year Veterinary Students.

Laura Munger, Cora Uidl, and Lijie (Jel) Zhao were nominated by faculty members to receive this distinction. The certificate recognizes and promotes the value of veterinary clinical scientists and is available to fourth-year veterinary students who demonstrate a sincere interest in veterinary internal medicine, as well as outstanding clinical expertise.

ACVIM-affiliated institutions can submit up to three selections for this certificate annually. 

Munger was nominated for the honor by the large animal faculty group for her exceptional clinical insight, self-motivation, and deep commitment to veterinary medicine.

“Laura has shown a clear passion for internal medicine and a strong interest in pursuing a large animal medicine residency after graduation,” writes nominator and clinical professor Anna Firshman. 

Uidl and Zhao were nominated by the small animal internal medicine group. 

Uidl’s nominators note she demonstrates exceptional knowledge, dedication, competence, and passion for her small animal internal medicine patients. 

“She has a strong commitment to her learning, and her curiosity is demonstrated by her continuous utilization of research papers and consensus statements,” writes nominator and associate professor Jennifer Granick. “She is a leader, a helper, and an effective communicator."

Zhao’s passion for internal medicine has been on display since her third year, when she participated in multiple mini rotations on the Small Animal Medicine Service and continued this investment in learning through clinical rotations in her fourth year. 

“She asked thoughtful questions and did independent reading to expand her knowledge base,” Granick writes. “One of the most wonderful skills that she demonstrated was the application of her knowledge to tailor the care plan to the individual patient.”