In the News
Dr. Andrea Johnston - Mother, Veterinarian and Business Owner
Women in business
Dr. Andrea is co-owner of Gehrman Animal Hospital. She enjoys working with clients to help them understand how preventative care can set their pet up for success and optimal life expectancy.
What was your dream job as a kid, and why?
Becoming a doctor had always been my dream job; however, I was never sure what type of doctor. When I think back, my fascination with my toy microscope, my ant farm, and my two birds, fish, frog and dog, I suppose that was an early indication that animal medicine was in my future.
What woman inspired you, and why?
Jane Goodall. She has done so much work on conservation and animal welfare. I have always been amazed at the animal bond she created with chimpanzees and her passion for primates. Goodall was one who created her own path regardless of gender bias at that time and has always remained to be such a strong activist. My first memory of her was reading about her in National Geographic as a young child.
What advice would you give to young women who want to succeed in the workplace?
Don’t self-limit your career options, be passionate about your field, and don’t be afraid to change course if your field of work does not excite you. Growing up in my home we had a sign up in the kitchen that read “What I will be is up to me.” I continue to share this with my own daughters in hopes they find a career that they love.
How do you achieve work-life balance?
To be honest, this is a difficult question to answer. I am not sure if I have achieved that balance, but I’m also not sure that perfect balance is a realistic expectation for ambitious working mothers. There are days where I feel I have put in too much time at work and have sacrificed family time. I think it is important to take care of yourself, so you can take care of your family. I also find myself working after my children have gone to sleep so I can dedicate time to them on my days off and in the evenings. Work-life balance is something I continue to strive to achieve.
What do you enjoy most about the Wayzata community?
I love the loyalty of the Wayzata community. As a small business owner, I appreciate the strong feeling of support amongst the community. I have met generations of family members that have brought their pets into the clinic and enjoy seeing them out in the community, as well.
