From Stephens to Veterinary Medicine and Forensic Science
Alumni Spotlight: Amanda Kujiraoka ’22
Amanda Kujiraoka ’22 has never been one to shy away from a challenge. Whether leading student organizations, conducting research, or fostering dozens of animals in need, she made the most of her time at Stephens College—an experience that continues to shape her promising veterinary career.
A driven leader and scholar, Amanda majored in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, balancing rigorous academics with an impressive slate of extracurriculars. She served as president of Tri-Beta, Sigma Eta Rho, and the Acute Math Club, while also tutoring math and science in the Student Success Center. Her passion for research led her to become a two-time Summer Research Scholar, an experience that helped her stand out in the competitive world of veterinary school applications. When it came time for graduation, Amanda’s impact on campus was clear—she was chosen as the commencement speaker for the Class of 2022.
Learning by Doing: Hands-On Veterinary Training at Stephens
Stephens offered Amanda something invaluable: real-world animal experience integrated into her coursework. Though she had no prior equine background, she jumped into hands-on learning at the College’s stables, mastering horse handling, equine medicine, and nutrition. Working closely with Equestrian Program Coordinator Sara Linde-Patel ’02, she built foundational skills that would later shape her veterinary career.
Her passion for animal care extended beyond campus. As a volunteer and foster caregiver for Second Chance animal rescue, Amanda provided medical care to animals in need—an experience that deepened her love for shelter medicine and even earned her a Stephens scholarship. Over the years, she fostered 65 animals, including a cat named Kawhi, whom she couldn’t resist adopting.
Taking the Next Step: Veterinary School and Forensic Science
Today, Amanda is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine candidate at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, where she continues her research and clinical training. Her interests extend beyond traditional veterinary medicine—she’s particularly drawn to lab animal medicine, regulatory work, and research, a passion that took root during her time as a Veterinary Research Scholar at MU.
Currently, she’s taking on an exciting new challenge: a prestigious externship with the ASPCA’s Forensic Sciences team in New York City. Working alongside veterinary forensic experts and the NYPD, she assists with animal cruelty investigations, gaining invaluable insight into the intersection of veterinary medicine and the justice system. From forensic pathology to diagnostics, the experience has given her a unique perspective on how veterinarians contribute to criminal cases.
After completing her ASPCA externship, Amanda will return to Columbia, Missouri, for her clinical rotations. She has also secured additional externships at Stanford Medical Center, City of Hope, and other institutions specializing in lab and exotic animal medicine, further expanding her expertise.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in Veterinary Medicine
Reflecting on her journey, Amanda credits Stephens for preparing her for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
“The hands-on experience at Stephens was built into the system. I left prepared to not only pursue veterinary school but to thrive and explore diverse fields within veterinary medicine.”
From the stables of Stephens to the forensic labs of Manhattan, Amanda Kujiraoka’s path is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. And with every step, she continues to prove that veterinary medicine is more than a career—it’s a calling.
