Posted on Thursday, August 13, 2026
This month, we caught up with Class of 2005 graduate Dr. David Dycus, Veterinary Orthopedic Surgeon and founder of Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics, specializing in canine orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation. David’s expertise has led him to become an internationally recognized speaker and author of numerous research articles.
Q: What’s one or two ways you think your LC experience helped prepare you for your career?
A: LaGrange College helped prepare me not only for veterinary school but also shaped my perspective on what it means to be a well-rounded person and professional. The small class sizes allowed for direct, one-on-one learning with instructors who genuinely cared about their students and wanted to see them succeed not only in the classroom but in life.
A prime example came when I entered veterinary school and enrolled in anatomy and histopathology courses. I found myself well ahead of many of my peers from larger universities, and I attribute that to both the curriculum at LC and the close interaction I had with my professors.
The liberal arts component of the curriculum also challenged me to think beyond my science-focused mindset. It expanded my knowledge base, encouraged me to think outside the box, and helped me develop a broader appreciation for the world. I believe that experience made me a better communicator and gave me a more balanced perspective that continues to serve me today.
Q: What’s one memory from your time at LC that still makes you smile?
A: The late Dr. John Hurd used to take his biology students on field trips each fall and spring. These camping trips gave us the opportunity to take what we were learning in the classroom and experience it firsthand in nature. Dr. Hurd was incredibly energetic, and it was obvious how much he loved sharing his knowledge and passion with his students.
In addition, the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica twice during Jan Term remains one of the highlights of my time at LC. Those experiences created memories and lessons that have stayed with me throughout my life and career.
Q: What’s one word you’d use to describe your LC experience?
A: Preparation.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you’d give today’s students?
A: Enjoy your time at LC—four years will go by quickly, and you will make lifelong friends along the way. Study consistently rather than cramming for exams at the last minute, and focus on truly learning the material instead of simply memorizing it.
Your professors are there to help you become the best version of yourself and genuinely want to see you succeed. Lean on them during both the high points and the challenging moments.
You may not realize it while you’re in school, but once you graduate and step out into the world, you’ll appreciate just how prepared you are to tackle life’s many challenges because of the education and experiences you received at LC.
If you want to be featured or nominate someone to be in the Alumni Business Spotlight, please contact alumni@lagrange.edu.
Category: College
Keywords: alumni
