Marina is another new addition to the OVG team, she joined us in the spring of 2023 but she's been in the field for 3 years not and had her Certificate in Veterinary Technology from Modesto Junior College.

What is your favorite part about your job? I have always been passionate about helping animals. My favorite part about my job is being able to help something that is so precious to this world. Animals are our companions.

If you could be an animal for a day, what animal would you choose to be and why? I would be a cat. Cats just sleep all day, and I’d love that for me.

You can only eat one dish for every meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) for a whole month; what meal are you choosing? Definitely mashed potatoes

Who would you say is the best dressed employee when you're not all wearing scrubs? (Yes, you can vote yourself!) Me!

Favorite dog breed and why? Golden retrievers! They’re just sweet little babies.

Favorite cat breed and why?I love Scottish folds. Their little ears and smushed face warms my heart

You're stranded on an island for a month; what 4 things are you bringing with you? My cat Jelly Bean, a tent, a sleeping bag, a knife.

If you had to take one coworker from OVG with you, who would you take and why? Jessica! She is my favorite and she has a heart of gold.

What is your favorite season of the year and why? Summer because my birthday is in the summer and also because i love the beach.

What is your favorite responsibility/task/procedure to perform at work? I like abscesses because they’re so satisfying to watch them pop.

What is your number one tip you have for pet owners? It can be anything from care tips, treat/food recommendations, tips before vet visits, etc. Pets can still get fleas even if they don’t go anywhere

Which Hogwarts House would you be in and why? Slytherin because I am determined to do better and be better.

What's your go to Starbucks drink? It depends on my mood 1.)An iced vanilla latte, upside down 2.)a strawberry açaí refresher 3.)iced matcha green tea latte with strawberry purée

What made you go into the veterinary medicine field for your career? I have always been an animal lover, and I knew that I wanted to help them in any way I could. I wanted to give a voice to the voiceless.

What pets do you have at home? (breed & name) I have 10 cats and 2 dogs! A golden retriever mix named Cashew, and a queensland/rottweiler mix named Kiki

Which OVG core value do you most embody and why? (Passionate, genuine, collaborative, fun, respectful) Definitely being passionate. But I also love to have fun at the same time as getting work done.

What are you most looking forward to in the new hospital? Having more space and kennels to help the sweet babies!

If you could travel to anywhere in the world where would you go and why? I would like to go to Switzerland. It looks so beautiful there. i’d like to go in the Spring time with all the flowers

Who would you consider your biggest mentor/inspiration in your career? Why? The people around me in this field are the most helpful humans. I am my biggest inspiration because although I have been through many hardships, I keep going.