My participation in the 57th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV), held from February 28 to March 3, 2026, at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, marked a significant milestone in my professional career. Beyond mere attendance, it represented a full immersion into the field of international swine medicine. For a veterinary student or recent graduate (as is my case), participating in an event of this magnitude goes far beyond simply accumulating continuing education credits; it is about laying the foundation for a specialized career.
Thanks to the activities meticulously designed by AASV for students, the objective was threefold: to connect with the global community of specialists, to understand the real challenges faced by the industry, and ultimately, to envision a viable professional path within swine production.
A key aspect of participating was the need to move beyond the theoretical understanding of the issues affecting both the national and international swine sectors. AASV facilitates this through various approaches, recognizing that students are not only the future of the profession, but also an important part of its present.
These objectives became tangible through several concrete actions. First, the pursuit of mentorship and interaction with leading figures in the field. Observing firsthand how experienced veterinarians discuss and address their most persistent challenges made it clear that swine medicine is built collectively. It was not only about listening, but about witnessing how decisions that shape the profession are made.
Receiving the scholarship from Fundación Martha Acosta not only eased the financial burden, but also symbolically represented an investment from the industry in my development—a vote of confidence that reinforces my commitment to the profession.
I came to understand that swine medicine is not a linear career path, but rather a diverse ecosystem with opportunities in private practice, academia, the pharmaceutical and nutrition industries, and government agencies—all converging toward a common goal.
The congress not only provided me with a notebook full of notes and a list of contacts; it gave me a support network and a benchmark for the level of professional excellence I aspire to achieve. As AASV President Dr. Locke Karriker noted, the program is filled with skills to learn and take home. I returned with a suitcase full of them, but also with the conviction that I belong to this field and that my contribution, however early in my career, is part of a collective effort toward a healthier and more sustainable swine industry.
In conclusion, attending the AASV congress was the most important educational experience of my formative stage, far exceeding the expectations I had for an event of this nature.
I am deeply grateful to Dr. Martha Acosta, her entire team at the foundation, and the AASV Foundation for providing me with this opportunity—for believing in me, supporting me, and guiding me to become a better professional. Their work is essential in preparing young veterinarians, and it is crucial to continue supporting both the present and future of this remarkable sector, allowing it to grow and inspire entire generations to pursue their dreams within the industry.
Mario Silva
MAFI Scholar, Graduate of CUAltos – UDG
