When Dr. Brandon Phillips first connected with NVA as a veterinary technician, he wasn't just looking for a job; he was looking for a place to grow.

That instinct led him from working at an NVA hospital before vet school, to serving as an NVA student representative, to externing across multiple NVA practices, to landing his first DVM role at Old Town Animal Care Center in Chicago. His path is proof that the right support system can turn potential into purpose.

As you explored opportunities as a student, what made NVA stand out to you? How has NVA delivered on expectations you had as a student and extern?

What made NVA stand out to me was the level of support they provided to veterinary students. Through on-campus lunch-and-learns, networking opportunities, and social events, NVA created meaningful ways for students to connect and learn while helping make the stresses of veterinary school a little more manageable.

NVA has exceeded my expectations. One thing I especially appreciated was the externship stipend offered for each externship, which helped offset the costs of travel, lodging, and other expenses associated with pursuing externship opportunities. That support made it possible for me to gain experience at multiple hospitals and explore different practice settings, all while feeling genuinely supported by the organization.

What did you take away from your NVA extern experiences that you now carry with you as a practicing veterinarian?

My NVA externships reinforced the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning. Each hospital had its own approach to patient care, team collaboration, and client communication, and I learned to appreciate the value of different perspectives while maintaining high standards of medicine. I also saw how a strong, supportive team can positively impact both patient outcomes and workplace culture. Those experiences continue to influence how I practice today and how I collaborate with colleagues and support staff.

How has NVA supported your growth and development as a new DVM?

NVA has played a huge role in supporting my growth as a new DVM. Through the new graduate mentorship program, I've been paired with an excellent mentor who has joined me on surgery days and provided invaluable guidance and feedback. I've also benefited from hands-on training opportunities at the PetOne Veterinary Training Center, including spay and neuter training sessions. In addition, the CE funds and dedicated CE days have allowed me to continue expanding my knowledge and skills. Having mentorship both within my hospital and through an NVA mentor has ensured that I always have someone to turn to when questions or challenges arise, which has been incredibly reassuring as I transition into practice.

More about Dr. Phillips:

Dr. Brandon Phillips was born and raised in Buffalo, New York (Go Bills!). He earned his bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology and worked as a licensed veterinary technician both before and throughout veterinary school, gaining valuable hands-on experience that continues to shape his clinical approach today. He completed his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at St. George’s University in Grenada, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and finished his final year of clinical training at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Phillips is excited to bring his skills and passion to the Midwest as he begins serving the pets and pet parents of Chicago. His professional interests include preventive medicine, surgery, exotic animal care, emergency medicine, and urgent care. He has also completed a certification course in peaceful euthanasia and holds a special interest in supporting families through end-of-life care. With a focus on gentleness, clear communication, and compassion, he strives to ensure every patient is treated with dignity and every family feels supported during challenging moments.

During veterinary school, Dr. Phillips served as president of his local Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) chapter, where he developed a strong appreciation for organized veterinary medicine and its role in advancing the profession and improving animal welfare.

Outside the clinic, Dr. Phillips enjoys playing video games—especially League of Legends—along with cooking, baking, and trying new recipes. He loves to travel, is currently learning to speak Thai, and hopes to visit Thailand soon. He lives with his partner and their Chocolate Labrador retriever, Lana Dog Rey and miniature longhaired Dachshund named Cha Yen.