A Passion for Animal Care

Mount Holly’s Chloe Rhom found her momentum at Gaston College in the fall of 2019, driven by family connections, a passion for animals, and a change in her educational path.

Rhom, a 2021 Veterinary Medical Technology graduate, now serves as the Intern Coordinator for the veterinary technician internship program at CARE Charlotte (Charlotte Animal Referral and Emergency).

“Choosing Gaston College was an easy decision when it came time to plan my education,” Rhom said. “It was local, affordable and fully accredited — everything I was looking for in a school. My mom had attended Gaston for a year in 1989 before continuing her education at a larger university, and she always spoke highly of her experience there. Knowing how much she loved her time at Gaston, I felt confident it would be the perfect place for me to pursue my own education.”

Rhom began her college journey at a four-year institution before finding her place at Gaston College. The Veterinary Medical Technology program aligned perfectly with her interest in animal medicine.

“I chose that program at a pivotal time in my life,” Rhom said. “I had just made the difficult decision to leave a major university and was starting over from scratch. During that challenging period, my mom and I spent a lot of time discussing potential career paths that aligned with my passion for animal medicine. When we discovered the Vet Tech program, I immediately knew it was the perfect fit — and the place where I truly belonged.”

At Gaston College, Rhom confirmed she had made the right choice and became part of a historic moment.

“I was incredibly fortunate to be part of the first class to experience the new vet tech building at Gaston College,” Rhom said. “We loved spending time there between classes and walking the dogs on the beautiful grounds.

“The small class size created a close-knit environment, allowing me to really connect with my classmates and build lasting relationships. My time at Gaston gave me so much more than just a degree — it provided me with invaluable skills that I will carry with me throughout my entire life.”

Rhom’s career at CARE Charlotte has been rewarding.

“I recently had the incredible opportunity to take over the Veterinary Technician Internship program within the company, which has been an amazing experience for my personal and professional growth,” Rhom said. “While I see myself pursuing a management role in the future, I’ve also considered the possibility of teaching one day. Right now, I’m truly content with where I am — but the possibilities ahead are endless!”

Reflecting on her success, Rhom acknowledges how Gaston College helped her own her momentum. “Gaston College provided me with the essential credentials and foundation that have shaped my career and led me to where I am today,” Rhom said. “I truly believe that knowledge and education are powerful tools for growth and opportunity.”