Student Research Spotlight: Hamzat, Abdulafees 

We are starting a student research spotlight series featuring veterinary students who have participated in research activities, especially those who have had the opportunity to do so abroad. Our first guest will be Hamzat Abdulafees, a DVM V student of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan.

Abdulafees Hamzat is a student of the faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan. Earlier this year, he was privileged to attend Kansas State University as a visiting scholar. 

Here is how our conversation with him went! 

Hello, kindly introduce yourself to the audience. 

My name is Abdulafeez Hamzat, and I am a veterinary medical student at the University of Ibadan. 

Can you tell us the purpose of your visit to Kansas State University (KSU) this year?

I was at Kansas State University as a visiting scholar for the Veterinary Research Scholar Program (VRSP). VRSP is a program that aims to introduce veterinary students to research at the earliest stage in the DVM program.

What prompted you to explore a career in research as a Vet student, and how did you begin your research journey?

Initially, I was not a research-centered person, but I have always loved something that incites the urge to seek more information. I started taking online courses geared towards mixed practices and wildlife, then stumbled on some that teach research aspects, which caught my attention. So, for somewhat one and a half years, I garnered so much knowledge but wasn't putting it into use. Then, one day, I was discussing with a colleague (and 'whining' him as usual) that I knew this and that about research and boom! That marked the beginning of my journey in research. He talked me into using my knowledge and skills and encouraged me to take some steps, which I did.

How did you learn about the program, and were there other similar opportunities you applied to?

I learned about VRSP in late 2020 when a colleague, but I didn't take it seriously. Although I knew of several similar opportunities, some I applied for and others I did not. I think I applied for grants the most.

What was the process of applying to the program or similar ones like for you? What are the things you feel increased your chances for selection for the one at KSU?

The process, I will say, was initially daunting, but I summoned the courage to start. The moment I started and submitted the first application, I felt comfortable.

I can't say for sure what increased my chance, but being genuine in the application can stand one out.

Can you give us a brief overview of your summer research project?

‘Projects’ actually. I designed a surveillance system for early detection of the Japanese encephalitis virus in the United States in preparation for possible incursion. I also worked on quantifying Salmonella in lymph nodes of feedlot cattle and determining the pattern of antimicrobial resistance in the isolates. The two projects are basically in epidemiology.

What were the experiences and/or achievements during your participation in the program that you are most proud of?

Lots of experiences and achievements. One of them was that I presented my research as a poster at two conferences, the KSU poster presentation (which led to an excellence award) and the Veterinary Scholars Symposium in Puerto Rico. Also, I was able to kick-start and design a template for a quarterly newsletter for my lab.

What were your most challenging moments, if any, and/or moments that left a lasting impression on you?

I don't think I really had any challenging moments. Maybe the fact that the people in my lab found out I don't have any hobbies (at least to them) and kept scheduling plans for me every weekend.

Outside your routine research/lab work, can you talk about some memorable experiences you had during your time abroad?

I visited a museum. Also, my lab group organized a farewell lunch for me.

Were there notable cultural and/or educational differences you observed during the program that you would like to share?

 

Definitely, there are lots of differences and so much that I can't start narrating them all.

What career do you envisage pursuing after Vet school, and how do you see the experiences you have had during the program playing out in your desired career path?

After vet school, I plan to study epidemiology, wildlife disease epidemiology to be precise (widely known as wildlife population health), which translates to pursuing graduate studies. The program was a game changer. That's all I can say.

What advice would you give veterinary students who are also research-inclined and would like to seek similar opportunities such as this?

I would say perseverance and resilience matter in every journey, so adorn yourself with those coats.

Thank you so much, Abdulafees, for joining us on this segment. It's been particularly insightful, and we hope our readers will gain better perspectives on their veterinary career paths, especially as it concerns research.

It's been nice having you, and we hope you'll join us again!