"Veterinary medicine is different from human medicine because animal doses and dosage forms are so distinct," she said. "Every species has different needs, tastes and dosages."

Augustus always had a profound interest in pharmacy and an even deeper love of animals, but she never imagined that the two would merge into a career. After graduating from pharmacy school and accepting a job at Upjohn's manufacturing company in Michigan, she learned of an opportunity to establish a pharmacy in the school of veterinary medicine at Louisiana State University. "In veterinary medicine once a person gets involved, he or she rarely leaves the profession. This is because there is a lot of job satisfaction. It's both challenging and different," she said.

When she first entered the field 32 years ago, Augustus faced her own barriers. As a black woman, she found it very difficult to find a place that would allow her to practice pharmacy. After years of hard work and perseverance, doors began to open for her. Today, she does not see as many barriers within the profession.

In fact, throughout her career, she has witnessed many positive changes in the industry. "When I first started at the college, there were very few women in the 35-student classes," she said. "Now we have classes of more than 100 students that contain more women than men."

According to Augustus, the key to being successful in the veterinary industry is to truly care about those you are serving. "To be involved in this field, you need an interest in patients, the knowledge and confidence to challenge students and clinical staff, and the ability to be responsive to the owners who love and care about their animals," she said.

Although Augustus enjoys the hands-on practice of pharmacy, she has always wanted to teach. After completing her doctorate in pharmacy by taking evening classes for 16 months, she now has the opportunity to provoke student thinking. She's currently instructing 15 hours a semester and looks forward to teaching more medical pharmacology courses.

"I enjoy teaching because I've found that veterinary students are intimidated by drug knowledge. I like finding ways to present the material so that it makes sense," she said.

Even with retirement looming, Augustus has no plans to slow down. From spending time with her two grandchildren and attending church, to fitting in her coveted trips to the Caribbean and family dinners on Sundays, Augustus' life is hectic, yet more fulfilling than ever. "I enjoy not knowing what the next day will be like," Augustus said. "I think it's important to ask: 'What are we going to do with today?'"