Spotlight On One Of Our Current Interns: Dr Anna Mawston
We caught up with Dr Anna Mawston, one of our current Small Animal Rotating Interns at the University of Liverpool’s Small Animal Teaching Hospital (SATH), to hear about her career journey so far and her experience of internship life.
When and where did you graduate?
I graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2015.
What is your career history before joining the SATH?
After graduating, I moved back home to North Yorkshire and have been working as a small animal vet ever since. My career has taken me through a wide variety of practices – from corporate settings to an independent rural mixed practice, where I gained exposure to a huge range of species, including wildlife. More recently, I worked as a charity vet for the PDSA for two years, which provided me with a very high surgical caseload. Alongside this, I completed the BSAVA PGCert SAS in 2023 and achieved Advanced Practitioner status in surgery in 2024. My enjoyment of surgery and the busy caseload at the PDSA inspired me to apply for a rotating internship, with the aim of experiencing referral-level surgery and learning from specialist surgeons.
Why did you want to complete a rotating internship and what are your future career goals?
I wanted to gain first-hand experience working in a large, multi-disciplinary referral hospital and explore the possibility of specialising in small animal surgery. At the same time, I knew that even if I decided not to pursue specialisation, the internship would broaden my clinical skills across many areas of veterinary medicine – skills that I could take back to first opinion practice.
Why did you choose Liverpool?
As a Liverpool graduate, I was already familiar with the hospital and its day-to-day workings. What really drew me back, however, was the busy and varied caseload that SATH attracts, as well as the supportive and teaching-focused environment. When I visited the hospital before applying, I was struck by the warmth of the team and their dedication to both clinical work and education.
How have you found working in the SATH?
It took a few weeks to adapt to the referral setting, but everyone has been incredibly welcoming and supportive. From the reception team helping me navigate consults, to the nurses guiding me through wards and anaesthesia, and the specialists sharing their insights into complex cases – it’s been a real team effort. Another highlight has been working alongside colleagues from all over the world, who bring with them fresh perspectives and a real passion for their subjects.
What has been your favourite part of the internship?
I’ve really enjoyed getting involved in research projects and observing innovative, cutting-edge procedures. Supporting undergraduate students as they develop their clinical skills – and watching them grow into the vets of tomorrow – has been especially rewarding. The internship programme also includes regular Friday morning seminars, covering a wide variety of clinical and non-clinical topics, which I’ve found both engaging and inspiring. Beyond the hospital, SATH has a vibrant sporting community with something for everyone – from early morning open-water swimming, to running and cycling groups, to cricket and football. It’s been a great way to unwind and recharge after busy days at work.
Do you have any advice for anyone wishing to apply for an internship?
My biggest advice is to embark on the role with an open mind – you may discover that you enjoy certain subjects more than you expected, or even find new areas of interest entirely. It also doesn’t matter what stage of your career you’re at. I applied ten years after graduating, and while I was conscious that there had been developments in case management since my time at university, the internship has been (and continues to be) a fantastic opportunity to expand my knowledge and skills.