I think it depends on your experience level and availability.
Large animal clinics are around here, but they usually require a certain number of months of commitment. This is due to it being a college town with students wanting experience falling out of every tree. If you check the outlying towns, you might be surprised how many veterinarians live in the outlying towns and maintain stables or provide care at different facilities. Unfortunately, there isn't an easy answer as to whether you can get on as a volunteer with a vet.
If you are looking for animal experience and not necessarily vet experience. I highly recommend Crosswinds Equine Rescue. They have great demonstrations that are open to the public. Training and body language seminars, as well.
Students have worked at the teaching hospital as undergrads at Illinois. I have a few good friends, who are animal caretakers and certified technicians, who work there full time. I'm not sure about availability with these economic times, whether they would hire someone for a short term position.
If you have a local vet in the Champaign/Urbana area, they would be able to help you find a place to volunteer, as well.
Better yet, call or have a meeting with Mary Kelm (at the vetschool). She was amazing when I was trying to get a foot in the door with the local clinics.
Hope this helps.
