Steven Scott
Founder / Director of Veterinary Care
Hohenwald Animal Hospital/Tennessee Elephant Sanctuary
Memphis, TN USA
“You want to be bold, but not stupid...that’s how you get your name on a plaque.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationSteven Scott
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
Born and raised in Tennessee.
Grew up on a cattle farm in Maury County, and says he never thought he would be a veterinarian: “It seemed like a far away dream.”
After graduating from the University of Tennessee in 1981, he decided to move to the small town of Hohenwald to set up his veterinary practice—said he felt like he belonged there.
Affectionately nicknamed “Doc,” he treats every kind of animal; says, “I hate human conflict, but I will take on any animal, at any time.”
Got involved with the Tennessee Elephant Sanctuary in 1995—the sanctuary is a refuge for “retired” elephants, mostly from circuses and zoos, who are battling health and behavioral issues.
For about 20 years, he was one of only three vets in an area the size of Rhode Island—says that experience has prepared him for anything and made him highly adaptable.
Admits that he suffered from imposter syndrome while pursuing his doctorate—”I didn’t know if I was as smart as everyone else, but I knew I could outwork them.”
Says that success isn’t about the money, “it’s about feeling good about what you are doing and believing in your mission.”
Keep following my journey
Education
Career
Founder / Director of Veterinary Care
I am the owner / operator of Hohenwald Animal Hospital and a veterinarian at The Elephant Sanctuary.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Medicine
Environment & Nature
Learning / Being Challenged
Day to Day
The majority of my day is spent seeing various animal patients at my clinic, diagnosing, and treating them. When at the Elephant Sanctuary, I take care of the elephants and make sure they are healthy and happy.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Don't compare yourself to others and just do the best you can.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Bachelor
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Myself:
"I don't think I'm as smart as everyone here. "
Challenges I Overcame
Isolated
Interviewed By
Degree of Impact
Paths made possible by a doctoral degree
