Alumni in Profile: Chloe McMenamin (BSc Veterinary Nursing 2016)
Chloe McMenamin is a veterinary nurse and a lecturer in Applied Animal Health, currently based in Aotearoa New Zealand. A graduate of UCD’s BSc in Veterinary Nursing (2016), Chloe’s career spans clinical practice, wildlife care, and academia. Passionate about education and the empowerment it offers, Chloe is dedicated to supporting students as they grow into confident, capable professionals. She is also an active researcher with a focus on topics that advance animal and human health, veterinary sustainability, and education.
- What led you to study Veterinary Nursing?
Like many children, I once dreamed of becoming a vet. That dream really took shape during a secondary school placement at my local veterinary clinic. Watching the team work with such skill and compassion left me completely inspired. As I moved through school, I came to understand that the academic path to becoming a vet might not be the right fit for me. Rather than giving up on the dream entirely, I started looking for other ways to be part of the veterinary world. That’s when I discovered veterinary nursing. It felt like a natural and meaningful direction—one that would still allow me to work closely with animals and contribute in a meaningful way to my community.
- What was your favourite part of the course?
The people I met along the way. I know it might sound cliché, but it’s genuinely true—the group of friends I made in my first year of university are still close friends today. What made the UCD experience stand out for me was the opportunity to connect with some of the most inspiring and down-to-earth individuals. Their support and authenticity shaped my journey in ways I’ll always be grateful for.
- What advice would you give to someone considering studying Veterinary Nursing?
Go for it. Honestly, if you start and later realise it’s not the right path for you, that’s completely okay. The UCD Veterinary Nursing course equips you with so many valuable, transferable skills: communication, staying calm under pressure, managing people, and a solid foundation in medical knowledge. These skills are useful in any industry, not just veterinary care. So never underestimate the value of your time at UCD or the qualification you earn. Someone with strong soft skills is an asset to any team—and that’s exactly what this course helps you develop.
- What was your experience at UCD like? Any highlights?
Highlights from my time at UCD - it’s almost easier to think about the lowlights, because honestly, there were so many memorable moments that I could talk about them for days. If I had to choose just one highlight, it would be the incredible opportunities to connect with people, both within the School of Veterinary Medicine and across the wider university community. Now, almost ten years on from graduating, I still look back and appreciate how well UCD fostered a sense of belonging. The range of societies to get involved in, the welcoming atmosphere, and the genuine inclusivity—no matter your background—made a real difference. As someone who was a country bumpkin, UCD made the transition to the big smoke less daunting and truly enjoyable.
- What is your current job?
I’m a lecturer in Applied Animal Health in Aotearoa New Zealand and an early career researcher.
- How do you feel the Veterinary Nursing course prepared you for this role?
I believe UCD did an excellent job in preparing me for my role as an academic. The program taught me critical thinking skills, how to find high-quality resources to support my arguments, and how to communicate information in an effective and meaningful way.
- What is the proudest moment of your career to date?
I’ve been fortunate to experience so many, but recently it would be watching my students graduate each year. I feel incredibly privileged to be in a role where I can support individuals as they grow into their chosen careers or develop essential life skills. Even though I may only be part of their lives for a short time, it’s truly special to contribute to their journey, even briefly.
- What have been the most challenging aspects of your career?
I won’t sugarcoat it—being a veterinary nurse is incredibly demanding. We take on multiple roles every day: anaesthetists, radiographers, surgical assistants, and first responders in emergencies. We triage and stabilise critically ill pets, perform CPR regularly, and support complex surgeries—all while managing countless other responsibilities behind the scenes. Yet, despite the depth and breadth of our work, veterinary nurses are often underappreciated.
The gender equality gap in veterinary nursing is a real and pressing issue. Add to that the physical and emotional toll of shift work—especially night shifts that can leave you feeling drained for days—and it’s no surprise that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a constant challenge.
It’s deeply disappointing to see passionate, brilliant individuals work so hard to earn their qualifications, only to feel undervalued in the very industry they help sustain. Studies from the UK show that many veterinary nurses leave the profession after just 5 to 7 years—and while these figures are UK-based, I know these figures will be the same in Ireland from just looking at my own university friend group and how many of them are still in veterinary nursing roles.
Irish veterinary nurses have made commendable efforts to unionise and advocate for change. But until the industry truly recognises the value we bring, we risk continuing to lose talented professionals who are the backbone of veterinary care. This needs to change.
- Describe your typical work day.
No two days are ever the same in my role—but that’s part of what I love about it.
Most mornings begin with answering emails from students, colleagues, and research partners. I then create a to-do list, prioritising tasks for the day before diving in.
On teaching days, I usually deliver at least one two-hour lesson. I also spend time supporting students who may be facing challenges that affect their academic performance. On other days, my focus shifts to research—writing articles, preparing presentations, or applying for grants. Sometimes, I’m deep in lesson planning, developing teaching materials, writing assessments, or marking student work.
It’s a role that keeps me constantly busy, with something always needing attention. But honestly, I enjoy that pace. There are so many aspects of this job that I truly love, and being busy is something I oddly thrive on.
- In your career and/or personal life, who have been the most inspiring or helpful mentors/advisors that you’ve had to date?
Honestly? I wouldn’t say I have one single Yoda-like figure guiding me through life. Instead, I find inspiration in the everyday brilliance of the people around me—especially those in the veterinary industry. They’re some of the most highly caffeinated, salt-of-the-earth humans I’ve ever met.
Thinking back to my early days as a vet nurse, working alongside canine hydrotherapy teams and later during my internship at UCD with the diagnostic imaging and anaesthesia teams, I was lucky to be surrounded by experts who were not only brilliant but also kind. Their compassion and teamwork didn’t just shape my clinical approach—they continue to influence how I teach, support my students, and approach research today.
- What do you do to relax? Tell us a bit about your current life, family and hobbies.
Right now, my routine is: finish work, hit the gym, and lift heavy things like I’m training for a secret life as an Olympic weightlifter. It’s my way of hitting the reset button after a day of academic chaos. In the evenings, I try to read a book instead of watching TV. It’s my noble attempt to slow down and unwind after what’s usually a non-stop day.
- What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Feel the fear and do it anyways - we all must start somewhere.