DAFVM Spotlight Employee: Thomas McParland
Thomas McParland
For College of Veterinary Medicine equine surgical intern Dr. Thomas McParland, being more than 4,000 miles from home offers both challenges and opportunities.
A graduate of the Royal Veterinary College at the University of London, Thomas was chosen to intern at Mississippi State through the American Association of Veterinary Clinicians Veterinary Internship and Residency Matching Program.
“I really wanted to try something new,” Thomas said. “I saw this opportunity as a way to experience a different culture, while continuing to learn my trade.”
As an equine surgical intern, Thomas performs lameness exams and responds to on-call medical emergencies. He also assists with a variety of surgeries from colic to fracture repairs.
“I went from simply knowing the basics to being able to apply that knowledge in a surgical setting,” Thomas said. “In my 18 months here, I’ve gained quality experience.”
In July, Thomas will move into a new phase of life. “After my internship, I’ll have to enter the next stage of my career -- where to go, what to do next,” Thomas said. “I plan to enter a private practice and then pursue my residency either here in the states or back home with my family.”
Thomas has a twin brother who is a lawyer, an older brother who is a financial consultant and a younger sister studying to become a teacher.
Moving from London to Starkville was a big change. “The most striking difference is Mississippi has a friendlier culture,” Thomas said. “Everyone is so welcoming and interested in conversation. The Southern hospitality everyone talks about is definitely real.”
Being the huge sports fan that he is, Thomas loves being a part of American athletic events.
“It’s interesting to see how education and sports go hand-in-hand here,” Thomas said. “A college game day here is so fascinating because everyone is so supportive of the athletes. It’s been a pleasure to be a part of.”
Editor's note: The Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine Spotlight Employee profiles are provided by the Office of Agricultural Communications at Mississippi State. For more information, please click here.
