Objective: With 47 states experiencing a federally recognized veterinary shortage, it is important to identify areas of need and an evidence-based strategy for solving this complex problem.
Sample: 478 graduates of the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Methods: First destination outcomes for graduates from the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine DVM classes of 2019 to 2022 (n = 478) were examined. Logistic regression and latent class analysis were conducted to identify variables that can predict a graduate's choice of employment in rural, food animal versus other employment settings.
Results: Results indicate that a graduate's community of origin (rural, suburban, urban), preferred community, and gender have the strongest relationships with choice of employment setting (location and type).
Clinical relevance: These findings can be used to influence admissions practices by colleges of veterinary medicine to shape the demographics of veterinary classes and the potential practice location and types of veterinary graduates.
Keywords: community of origin; food animal; predictors; rural; shortage.