Connor Thonen-Fleck

Hi, my name is Connor Thonen-Fleck and I am in the Class of 2028 at NCSU CVM! I’m originally from Greensboro, NC, and attended NCSU undergraduate school. In December of 2023, I graduated with a B.S. in Biochemistry and Animal Science with a concentration in Veterinary Science.

I hope to work in laboratory animal medicine and clinical research. As an NCSU undergraduate, I worked as a research assistant in a clinical and basic science research lab focused on the origin and progression of osteoarthritis at the CVM. I also participated in a study abroad program in the Czech Republic where I conducted interdisciplinary research focused on harm reduction and drug addiction. Through these experiences, I discovered a passion for research, particularly concerning the welfare and use of animal subjects. Outside of research, I worked extensively at the VetPAC office, developing my leadership skills, connecting with a wide variety of veterinary professionals, and giving back to fellow students through peer advising and teaching. After graduating with my DVM, I hope to pursue a PhD and eventual career in research and teaching.

Honors/awards:

  • Credited as co-author on 6 abstracts
  • First author on an additional abstract and an associated poster presentation
  • Fear Free certification and Fear Free Shelter certification
  • Veterinary Clinician Radiation Safety certification through the NCSU-CVM
  • Carolinas Brahman Breeders Association Scholarship recipient
  • CALS Study Abroad scholarship recipient
  • Dean’s list for all semester enrolled at NCSU (6 at time of VMCAS application)
  • University Honors Program member
  • Service Learning Diploma (high school)
  • AP Scholar with honors (high school)
  • National Honor Society (high school)

Extracurriculars:

  • VetPAC intern – ANE coordinator
  • VetPAC intern mentor
  • VetCAMP counselor
  • APVMA Volunteer Co-Coordinator
  • NCSU Biochemistry department graduation ambassador
  • NCVC conference attendee, Agriculture Future of America attendee, PVMA conference attendee
  • Employed at Starbucks – Barista
  • ANS 205: Physiology of Domestic Animals TA
  • Crisis Text Line volunteer
  • Karate student (high school)
  • Student Human Resources Club treasurer, secretary, VP (high school)

Veterinary Experiences:

  • Intern and volunteer with Turtle Rescue Team
  • Volunteer veterinary assistant with Operation Catnip
  • Veterinary assistant at small animal and exotics ER
  • Shadowed an ambulatory large animal DVM
  • Lead veterinary assistant at a small animal and exotics GP and specialty hospital

Animal Experiences:

  • Dairy Unit volunteer
  • Pet sitter
  • NCSU animal science laboratory courses – reproductive physiology, nutrition, small ruminant management
  • Large animal intern at a local rescue
  • Dog trainer (personal pet)
  • Feline foster at 2 organizations, led a TNR program in the local community through 1 organization
  • Exotic animal fostering

Research Experiences:

  • Research assistant at the NCSU CVM (Duncan Lascelles Translational Research in Pain lab)
  • Study abroad experience in the Czech Republic conducting an original project (Research as a Profession Scholar)
  • Research Assistant at the swine unit (metabolic and nutritional research project)
  • Research assistant in organic and inorganic chemistry (high school)