Oniah Loza ’27 is the founder and president of The Pre-Vet Project, an organization that connects Azusa Pacific University students with volunteer opportunities at animal shelters nearby. With a passion for caring for God’s creation and using her leadership skills to encourage others to take part in making a difference, Loza has discovered her calling in the veterinary field.
Loza moved around a lot growing up, allowing her to see different parts of the country. She felt her heart tugged toward Southern California, and transferred to APU during the second semester of her freshman year to study allied health. Loza was still uncertain of how best to implement her interests in medicine, health, and giving back to the environment. Diving deeper into her spiritual life through APU’s faith integration and chapel services, Loza has grown closer to God and her calling. “APU has transformed my spiritual life and fostered my strengths as a leader,” she said.
Service is one of APU’s four cornerstones, and students are required to earn service credits by volunteering outside the university community. When Loza was searching for ways to fulfill her credits, she found Volunteers in Defense of Animals (VIDA) Rescue. Providing care for animals was the catalyst for Loza’s drive to pursue becoming a veterinarian. “I realized that helping animals is exactly what I want to do with my life,” Loza said. Through the mentorship of her professors Sarah Richart, PhD, and Cahleen Shrier, PhD, Loza successfully created The Pre-Vet Project, partnering with VIDA to recruit student volunteers.
The Pre-Vet Project is an excellent bridge for students to connect with VIDA and gain hands-on experience under the guidance of professionals. Not only do students earn service credits and foster a sense of fulfillment through volunteering, but they also learn applicable skills that will set them up for success when applying to veterinary school. Students learn to administer medications and vaccines, implant microchips, and monitor heart and respiratory rates, while giving pets an extra dose of love.
Entering APU, Loza didn’t know where to start when it came to reading scripture and developing a relationship with the Lord. Loza’s theology classes have offered her the space to explore big questions and discover the beauty of God’s handiwork.
Loza has many aspirations for the future, including attending veterinary school and opening her own clinic. Loza is interested in researching the interconnection between animal and human medicine, striving to learn more about how to best promote health and wellness. She encourages all students to give back to the planet through service. Whether it’s through veterinary care, or cleaning the beach, there are countless ways students can be difference makers.
So far, Loza’s college experience has presented her with a number of lessons and challenges that have strengthened her faith and hope for the future. “I’m a first generation college student on my mom’s side,” she said. “Navigating university on your own isn’t easy, and I’ve had times where I was lost, but APU has shown me that everything is possible with God.” By giving herself grace and persisting through trials and errors, Loza’s confidence continues to grow as she leans into God’s plan for her life.