Dr. Kathleen Olsen is a practicing veterinarian. She earned both her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Chemistry and her veterinary degree from Cornell University. During her time at Cornell, she taught courses in Comparative Anatomy, Inorganic Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry, and completed several research papers on canine growth disorders. After graduating from veterinary school, she completed an internship in Small Animal Medicine and Surgery in Michigan, and then worked in a private small animal/exotics practice in Seattle for several years. Since moving back to the east coast in 2000, she has worked in several referral hospitals, practicing exclusively emergency and critical care veterinary medicine. Dr. Olsen lives in Centreville with a teenage daughter whom she homeschools.
“I have been impressed with the way Dr. Olsen motivates and engages her students with the subject material. The college level science text was challenging for our daughter at first, but she rose to it and was successful. Our child would like to take another class taught by Dr. Olsen.” -J.K. (Oak Hill, VA)
“Dr. Kathleen Olsen is one of our daughter’s favorite teachers. Her depth of knowledge and skill in communicating advanced material has provided our daughter with a positive experience that is beyond any expectation we might have. The experience and final outcome were nothing less than exceptional. As we figured out rather early in the course, our daughter was in the hands of an intelligent and wonderful professional that never enters the classroom without bringing all of her ability, knowledge and skill to the lessons she will inevitably teach. Dr. Olsen has a marvelous sense of humor and wit that creates a warm environment for both students, as well as any observers who might have the privilege of visiting one of her classes. Our daughter is looking forward to beginning her next class with Dr. Olsen in this coming term.” -M.B. (Bethesda, MD)
“My daughter adores Dr. Olsen. Dr. Olsen is a true expert who loves her subject, and her enthusiasm is infectious. Her teaching style is unique and extremely effective. She prepares for her classes thoroughly and meticulously. She is one of the finest teachers at Compass.” -J.M. (Woodbridge, VA)
“My son really enjoyed Ms. Olsen, learned a ton about animals and vet practices!” -K.W. (Centreville, VA)
“Kathleen Olsen is an excellent instructor. My child learned so much in her class. Ms. Olsen was very engaging and interesting, and presented the material in such a way that my daughter retained a great deal. My daughter felt comfortable engaging with Ms. Olsen, and with participating in the class discussions. Outbreak was one of my daughter’s favorite classes at compass so far!” -J.K. (Reston, VA)
