Loan says sea turtle releases are one of her favorite parts of her job!
Today, we’re celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science by sharing the experiences and insights from some of the amazing women in science at our Zoo. Read on to learn more about how these women and girls are using their degrees to make a positive impact on the environment and animals around them. To read all of our features, visit this page.
Let’s meet Loan Le, a veterinary assistant at our Zoo’s L3Harris Animal Care Center.
What is your official title, and how long have you been at the Zoo?
I’m a veterinary assistant, and it’s been 3 years at Brevard Zoo so far! I started in September 2021 as first impression guide, then November 2021 as animal nutrition technician, and then, I started in August 2024 as veterinary assistant.
What’s your educational background?
I have a bachelor’s degree in marine biology from the Florida Institute of Technology.
Loan examines Pepper the cheetah during her veterinary exam.
Why did you pursue your field?
I graduated with a marine biology degree, unsure if I wanted to work in conservation, research, education or rehabilitation. I learned that working in the vet department involves all of it: conservation through work with the grasshopper sparrows, salamanders and Perdido Key beach mice; research through sample collection for clinical studies; educating the public about animals living under human care; rehabilitation with sea turtles and Florida black bears. It’s really the best of all worlds!
What are some challenges about your work?
There are so many species to learn about and all the nuances between them. A lot of repetition, notes and medical resources are how I’m slowly, but surely, learning about all our residents at the Zoo.
With a lot of older residents having our Zoo as a “retirement home,” as well as sick/injured sea turtles and black bears, death and euthanasia can be challenging, especially as you get attached to the animals. While it can be challenging, I’m grateful to work with end-of-life healthcare with an option of a peaceful aide to ending pain for animals.
Who motivated you in pursuing your field?
My parents have always motivated me to pursue my dreams, even when it was to be an alligator wrestler. The whole veterinary department motivates me to always continue learning by supporting me through veterinary school applications. Learning from them motivates me to be a team player and an advocate for animals and ourselves. They also motivate me to strive to be a great practitioner. My boyfriend and dog are my motives to maintain a healthy work/life balance while pursuing veterinary medicine. I truly couldn’t do it without the support of everyone in my life!
Loan assists in examining a sea turtle patient.
What advice would you offer young girls pursuing a career in science?
The science field is so large with so many opportunities in every direction. Don’t be afraid to take on new opportunities just because it’s not exactly what you were planning to do. Trying new things is how you’ll find out what you like or dislike, love or hate!
What’s the most fulfilling part of your job?
My favorite part is seeing healthy patients, watching sick patients get healthier, and learning from patients who’ve passed via necropsies. And of course, sea turtle releases!
Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.