About
Melissa Strong is a part-time Lecturer in Veterinary Science and Clinical Extramural Studies Coordinator at Charles Sturt University (CSU), based in Wagga Wagga. She coordinates clinical placements and teaches veterinary students transition skills into professional practice. Her role includes preparing students for self-selected clinical placements, conducting post-placement debriefs, and assessing student performance in these critical experiential learning phases.
Dr. Strong earned her BVSc (Bachelor of Veterinary Science) from the University of Sydney in 1992, followed by a Graduate Diploma of Veterinary Clinical Studies from the same institution in 1996. Her career spans over 25 years, including private practice in NSW, mixed practice internships, and locum work across Australia. She transitioned to academia in 2005, initially on a casual basis before joining CSU full-time in her current part-time role.
Her research and teaching focus on enhancing veterinary students' communication, professionalism, and ethical practices, particularly during their clinical transitions. She actively supports students navigating placements in 3rd through final-year programs, emphasizing workplace readiness and industry-specific competencies.
Melissa collaborates with CSU’s Veterinary Science department to develop curricula that bridge academic training with real-world veterinary practice challenges. While no specific grants or awards are listed, her work directly impacts student preparation for professional veterinary roles.
