Raising campus awareness on issues of globalization in veterinary medical education

Abstract

Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM), due to its geographic location, provides an opportunity to raise awareness regarding issues of globalization in veterinary medical education, specifically in relation to diversity and acculturation. This manuscript discusses RUSVM's demographics and raises awareness concerning challenges North American students may experience when immersed in an environment where the racial mix of the university is predominantly White, vastly different than the community in which it resides. RUSVM students, faculty and support staff (n=1448) were invited to complete the American Veterinary Medical Association climate survey. Survey response rate was 36%. Students and faculty self-identified as White (80% and 76%, respectively), and support staff selfidentified as African American or Black (71%). Non-US Faculty reported a legal residence of Europe 8%, Africa 2%, or the Caribbean (44%), and support staff of Saint Kitts and Nevis (68%). Non-US students, most often indicated Canadian residency. Qualitative analyses resulted into three themes addressing university climate (35%), culture privilege (42%), and professionalism (24%). Matriculation of North American students wishing to study abroad should include deliberate discussions with respect to diversity, cultural and social contexts supporting acculturation, and adaptation to a broader academic environment.