From growing up surrounded by animals to becoming a DVM at Montville Veterinary Group in New Jersey, Dr. Simone Spence’s career journey is a powerful example of perseverance, mentorship, and the impact of a supportive veterinary community.

From growing up surrounded by animals to becoming a DVM at Montville Veterinary Group in New Jersey, Dr. Simone Spence’s career journey is a powerful example of perseverance, mentorship, and the impact of a supportive veterinary community.

After nearly seven years at Montville Veterinary Group (first as a veterinary assistant, then as an extern, and now as a DVM), Dr. Spence’s story highlights how NVA supports long-term growth and confidence at every stage of a veterinary career.

Here’s how Dr. Spence navigated her journey and what she’s learned along the way.

1. Tell us about your career journey.

"I’ve always loved animals. I grew up with cats, dogs, fish, and birds, which was slightly unconventional in a Jamaican household. As a kid, I watched Animal Planet the way other kids watched Nickelodeon. That’s where I started imagining animal-related careers and eventually realized veterinary medicine was an option.

At the time, the path felt daunting. There weren’t many people of color in the veterinary field to look to as role models, but with encouragement from my aunt and grandmother, I decided to pursue the dream anyway. I earned my bachelor’s degree in animal science from Penn State and briefly considered a master’s research program at the University of Queensland in Australia before realizing I wanted to make a more direct impact on animals’ lives.

I truly began my career at Montville Veterinary Group as a veterinary assistant nearly seven years ago. I later returned as an extern during veterinary school at the Royal Veterinary College in London. When Montville merged with NVA, I was nervous but relieved to find that the same quality medicine, work environment, and support system were still there, now strengthened by additional guidance and resources."

2. How has NVA supported your growth and development, from veterinary assistant to DVM?

"NVA has supported me every step of the way. The guidance and sense of community made my transition from assistant and vet student to DVM smoother than I expected. Veterinary school prepares you with the book knowledge, but nothing replaces hands-on experience and managing cases independently.

On my very first day as a veterinarian, I was faced with a dog in congestive heart failure. Without my in-hospital mentors, my knowledge would only have gone so far. They not only shared their experience and clinical insight, but also understood my fears, questions, and stressful days. That level of support has been invaluable."

3. How has NVA supported you as a new DVM?

"NVA has been a tremendous support system. My out-of-hospital mentor, Sara Goldstein, has been amazing. She encourages me to think through my plans, troubleshoot, and learn from mistakes rather than stepping in immediately. That trust has helped me grow in confidence and independence as a veterinarian."

4. Looking ahead, what are you hoping to achieve in your career with NVA?

"I hope to grow into a leadership role and focus on initiatives that increase diversity within the veterinary field. Mentoring future veterinarians, especially those who might hesitate to pursue this career the way I once did, is very important to me. Giving back to my community and serving as a role model is something I’m committed to as my career continues."

More about Dr. Simone Spence

Dr. Simone Spence is a veterinarian at Montville Veterinary Group. She began her career with the practice as a veterinary assistant before completing veterinary school at the Royal Veterinary College in London and returning as a DVM. Dr. Spence is passionate about client communication, mentorship, and increasing diversity in veterinary medicine. Outside of work, she enjoys giving back to her community and continuing to grow as both a clinician and leader.