Key Takeaways
- Jules Sulpazo balanced owning a Philly Pretzel Factory shop with full‑time studies at Manor College.
- After two false starts in chemistry and nursing, she discovered her true passion for veterinary technology.
- Admissions Director John Simila played a pivotal role in advocating for her acceptance despite modest academic scores.
- Sulpazo completed her externship at Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists in May 2025 and was hired full‑time three months later.
- At Pinnacle she experienced a collaborative, “boots‑on‑the‑ground” culture where executives work alongside technicians.
- Persistence through challenging periods was guided by the advice to follow one’s passion and trust innate instincts.
- Earning her Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology represents a permanent, self‑achieved credential that fuels her career pride.
Background and Early Education
Jules Sulpazo hails from Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, where she grew up helping her family run a Philly Pretzel Factory shop. The daily routine of prepping morning deliveries, managing the storefront, and enduring car rides that perpetually smelled of warm dough taught her a strong work ethic early on. While the pretzel business provided financial stability, Sulpazo felt a growing desire to pursue a career that aligned more closely with her personal interests. Her hands‑on experience in a fast‑paced retail environment later proved valuable when she transitioned to the demanding world of veterinary technology, where multitasking and resilience are essential.
Decision to Pursue Veterinary Technology
Before finding her calling, Sulpazo attempted college twice—first studying chemistry, then nursing—but withdrew from both programs because she lacked genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter. She recalled sitting in lectures, admiring professors who loved their fields, yet feeling disconnected from the material herself. This realization acted as a catalyst, prompting her to explore what truly motivated her. The turning point came when she recognized that her love for animals and her desire to contribute to their wellbeing could be channeled into a veterinary career, leading her to enroll in Manor College’s Veterinary Technology program.
Role of John Simila
John Simila, Manor College’s Director of Admissions, became a crucial advocate for Sulpazo during her application process. Aware that her previous academic records were not stellar, Simila took the time to review her holistic profile, emphasizing her work ethic, life experience, and evident passion for veterinary medicine. He personally vouched for her, telling her, “I believe in you,” which gave Sulpazo the confidence to persevere. Simila’s mentorship exemplifies how targeted support from institutional staff can bridge gaps for non‑traditional students seeking a second chance at higher education.
Manor College Vet Tech Program Experience
Within Manor College’s Veterinary Technology curriculum, Sulpazo encountered a rigorous blend of classroom instruction and hands‑on laboratory work. Courses covered anatomy, pharmacology, surgical assisting, and diagnostic imaging, all demanding both theoretical mastery and practical proficiency. She described long study sessions that often followed early morning pretzel‑shop shifts, leaving her exhausted yet determined. The program’s structure encouraged students to embrace difficulty, reinforcing the notion that overcoming academic hurdles builds the resilience needed for clinical environments. Sulpazo’s perseverance through these challenges laid a solid foundation for her subsequent externship.
Externship at Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists
In May 2025, Sulpazo began her required externship at Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists, a reputable referral center known for advanced surgical and critical‑care services. The externship allowed her to apply classroom knowledge in a real‑world setting, assisting veterinarians with preoperative preparation, intraoperative monitoring, and postoperative care. Over the course of three months, she demonstrated consistent reliability, quick learning, and a compassionate demeanor toward both animal patients and their owners. Her performance impressed the supervising staff, leading to a full‑time offer shortly after the externship concluded.
Full‑Time Employment as Surgery Nurse
Accepting the full‑time position as a surgery nurse at Pinnacle marked the culmination of Sulpazo’s transition from pretzel shop owner to veterinary professional. In this role, she is responsible for sterilizing surgical instruments, maintaining aseptic fields, monitoring vital signs during procedures, and providing compassionate postoperative care. The fast‑paced environment demands sharp attention to detail, the ability to anticipate surgeons’ needs, and steady nerves during critical moments. Sulpazo finds deep satisfaction in knowing her contributions directly impact patient outcomes, a sentiment that far outweighs the fatigue of her earlier dual‑job schedule.
Workplace Culture at Pinnacle
One of the most striking aspects of Pinnacle Veterinary Specialists, according to Sulpazo, is its egalitarian workplace culture. She frequently observes doctors and executives participating in tasks traditionally relegated to support staff—such as cleaning kennels, restocking supplies, or assisting with animal handling—thereby erasing rigid hierarchies. This “boots‑on‑the‑ground” philosophy fosters mutual respect and a shared commitment to practicing high‑quality medicine. Sulpazo relates to this approach, having herself risen from a hands‑on background in the pretzel factory, and she appreciates that every team member is valued for their contribution to patient care.
Overcoming Adversity and Personal Growth
Reflecting on her journey, Sulpazo acknowledges the numerous obstacles she faced, including moments of doubt when she questioned whether she could succeed in veterinary school after two prior college withdrawals. She credits her resilience to an inner conviction that she was pursuing her true passion, a belief reinforced by advice from a Manor College alumnus: “Embrace the hard times… trust that innate instinct that you’re doing what you love because the joy in the end is so worth it.” This mindset helped her push through fatiguing study sessions, long shifts, and the emotional toll of clinical work, ultimately strengthening her confidence and professional identity.
Reflection on Achievement and Future Outlook
As Sulpazo prepares to receive her Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology from Manor College, she views the credential as a permanent testament to her self‑determination and hard work. No external circumstance can erase the knowledge and skills she has earned, and the degree serves as a springboard for future aspirations—whether that involves specializing further in surgery, pursuing advanced certifications, or mentoring other aspiring vet techs. Her story underscores the message that following one’s passion, even amid setbacks, can lead to a fulfilling career where daily challenges are met with a smile, knowing that the effort invested is both meaningful and lasting.