Opportunities in Equine Practice Seminar (OEPS) is a professional forum created to encourage students to enter equine practice upon graduation. The seminar will be held Aug. 30-Sept. 1, 2024, at the Lexington Griffin Gate Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, in Lexington, Kentucky. Reestablished in 2023 after a 10-year hiatus, organizers brought the event back to address the emerging crisis of the diminishing number of graduating veterinary students entering equine practice.

The seminar hosts third-year veterinary students (Class of 2026) with practitioners from around the country on hand to present their experiences in various disciplines, from general and mixed practice to board specialties, providing an introductory view of all aspects of equine practice, from the large hospital setting to the solo practitioner, at nominal or no expense to the student. The event is the result of the cooperative efforts of equine practitioners from across North America, with additional financial support from industry sponsors and AAEP.

The estimated 325 attendees will be able to engage in interactive discussions with equine practitioners and industry partners, tour equine hospitals, local horse farms, and Keeneland racetrack, and participate in hands-on workshops.

“We are thrilled to announce another year of OEPS and welcome veterinary students, equine practitioners, and industry partners to join us for an amazing educational and networking opportunity,” said Craig Lesser, CF, DVM, the lead organizer of OEPS. “With dwindling numbers of students pursuing careers in equine practice, we aim to inspire and equip students with knowledge about the vast opportunities within equine practice that make our careers uniquely gratifying.”

In addition to the informational program, OEPS 2024 will offer an exhibition hall where attendees can interact with equine practices and industry-leading companies, along with social events to foster networking between students and OEPS supporters.