Written by: Shiela R. Rabe
Two #ProudViscan veterinarians, Dr. Ariel Paul M. Rupa (Doc Arjay) and Dr. Sunshine Mae Ann L. Sabela (Doc Shine), have successfully obtained their North American veterinary licenses in 2024 and are now practicing as licensed veterinarians in Canada.
Both Dr. Rupa and Dr. Sabela graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the Visayas State University – Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (VSU-FVM) in 2016. Soon after passing the Philippine Veterinary Licensure Examination that same year, they began their careers as swine veterinarians, practicing for two years in the Philippines. Their pursuit of professional growth led them to the United States, where they completed a swine internship that eventually opened the doors for their journey to Canada.
Upon settling in Canada, both alumni worked as veterinary assistants while beginning the challenging process of obtaining their North American veterinary credentials through the National Examining Board (NEB) of Canada and the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) of the United States.
The licensure process involved several rigorous steps, including:
- Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination (BCSE)
- North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE)
- Clinical Proficiency Examination (CPE)
After years of dedication, perseverance, and continuous learning, both doctors achieved their goal of becoming fully licensed veterinarians in North America and are now practicing in Canada.
Photo 1. Dr. Shine Sabela (left) and Dr. Arjay Rupa (right), while attending one of the activities as Volunteers of the Canadian Animal Task Force.
At present, Dr. Rupa serves as an Associate Veterinarian at Granville Veterinary Clinic in Edmonton, Alberta, while Dr. Sabela practices as an Associate Veterinarian at Barlow Trail Animal Hospital in Calgary, Alberta.
When asked what they can share with aspiring veterinarians who will read their stories, here is their message:
Doc Arjay: “I’ve always believed in aiming high and staying consistent, no matter how tough the journey gets. The path may not always be easy, but with persistence and faith in your purpose, every step forward brings you closer to where you’re meant to be.”
Photo 2. Dr. Arjay Rupa is taking a photo pictorial of a canine patient (left) and performing a castration procedure (right).
Doc Shine: “A lot of foreign veterinarians that I met think that the North American Veterinary licensing process is an impossible pathway. It may be a challenging road, but with determination, motivation, grit and perseverance, it is definitely achievable.”
Photo 3. Dr. Shine Sabela is taking a photo pictorial of a canine patient (left) and performing an ovariohysterectomy procedure (right).
Their achievements stand as a testament to the excellence and resilience of VSU-FVM veterinarians and serve as an inspiration to future graduates who aspire to make their mark in the global veterinary community.
[This article aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals: No. 4 – Quality Education, No. 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, No. 17 – Partnership for the Goals].
Tags: #iloveVSU, #ProudViscan, #SoarFVM-VSU, #SustainableDevelopmentGoals, #VSU, #VSUAlumni
