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What do I do to restore and enlighten my passion to make a difference in the world in my aspirations to be a veterinarian and more, what ideas can you give me to be known in history for what I've done to help animals in the world and more?
I'm a senior student athlete in high school who's struggled in highschool with my rigorous courses that I challenge myself to and have scarce faith of achieving my goals from a few Cs my junior year, taken 9 AP courses and volunteered at my local animal shelter I want to achieve more I want to make a difference and be known for what I do and I want to start now.
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James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
7221
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Emily!
Restoring and Enlightening Your Passion for Veterinary Medicine
1. Reflect on Your Motivations To reignite your passion for making a difference in the world, particularly in veterinary medicine, start by reflecting on what initially drew you to this field. Consider the experiences that inspired you to want to help animals—was it a personal pet, an impactful volunteer experience at the animal shelter, or perhaps a specific event that made you realize the importance of animal welfare? Write down these motivations and revisit them regularly to remind yourself of your purpose.
2. Set Clear Goals Establish both short-term and long-term goals related to your aspirations as a veterinarian. Short-term goals could include improving your grades in challenging subjects, gaining more volunteer experience, or shadowing a veterinarian. Long-term goals might involve applying to veterinary school or engaging in specific research projects related to animal health. Make sure these goals are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) so you can track your progress effectively.
3. Seek Mentorship Finding a mentor in the veterinary field can provide guidance and encouragement as you navigate your academic and career path. Look for local veterinarians who may be willing to share their experiences with you or consider reaching out to professionals through networking events or online platforms like LinkedIn. A mentor can offer valuable insights into the profession and help you stay motivated.
4. Expand Your Volunteer Experience While volunteering at an animal shelter is commendable, consider diversifying your experiences further. Look for opportunities such as internships at veterinary clinics, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or research labs focused on animal health issues. Each experience will not only enhance your resume but also deepen your understanding of various aspects of veterinary medicine.
5. Engage with Animal Welfare Initiatives Participate actively in initiatives aimed at improving animal welfare within your community or beyond. This could involve organizing awareness campaigns about responsible pet ownership, participating in spay/neuter programs, or advocating for legislation that protects animals. Such involvement will not only bolster your resume but also establish you as someone committed to making a difference.
6. Focus on Academic Improvement If you’re struggling with rigorous courses and have received lower grades than desired, it’s essential to develop effective study habits and seek academic support when needed. Utilize resources such as tutoring services at school or online platforms that offer assistance in challenging subjects like biology and chemistry—both crucial for veterinary studies.
7. Build a Personal Brand As you work towards becoming known for your contributions to animal welfare and veterinary medicine, consider how you can build a personal brand around these efforts. Create social media profiles dedicated to sharing insights about animal care, educational content about veterinary science, or updates on your volunteer work. Engaging content can attract followers who share similar interests and amplify your message.
8. Stay Informed About Veterinary Trends Keeping up-to-date with advancements in veterinary medicine is vital for any aspiring veterinarian. Subscribe to reputable journals such as the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) or follow organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Understanding current trends will not only enhance your knowledge but also prepare you for discussions during interviews or networking events.
9. Cultivate Resilience The journey toward becoming a veterinarian is often filled with challenges; cultivating resilience will be key to overcoming setbacks along the way. Practice self-care techniques such as mindfulness meditation or physical exercise which can help manage stress levels effectively while maintaining focus on your goals.
10. Celebrate Small Wins Finally, recognize and celebrate small achievements along the way—whether it’s improving a grade from a C to a B or completing another volunteer shift at the shelter—acknowledging these milestones will keep you motivated and reinforce your commitment toward making an impact in veterinary medicine.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and dedication towards helping animals globally through veterinary practices; you’ll position yourself well not just academically but also socially within communities focused on animal welfare.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): A leading organization representing veterinarians across America that provides resources on education pathways and current trends in veterinary medicine.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA): A peer-reviewed journal offering research articles that cover various aspects of veterinary science including clinical practices and advancements.
National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA): An organization dedicated to promoting humane treatment of animals through education and advocacy efforts which aligns closely with volunteer opportunities available for aspiring veterinarians.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Restoring and Enlightening Your Passion for Veterinary Medicine
1. Reflect on Your Motivations To reignite your passion for making a difference in the world, particularly in veterinary medicine, start by reflecting on what initially drew you to this field. Consider the experiences that inspired you to want to help animals—was it a personal pet, an impactful volunteer experience at the animal shelter, or perhaps a specific event that made you realize the importance of animal welfare? Write down these motivations and revisit them regularly to remind yourself of your purpose.
2. Set Clear Goals Establish both short-term and long-term goals related to your aspirations as a veterinarian. Short-term goals could include improving your grades in challenging subjects, gaining more volunteer experience, or shadowing a veterinarian. Long-term goals might involve applying to veterinary school or engaging in specific research projects related to animal health. Make sure these goals are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) so you can track your progress effectively.
3. Seek Mentorship Finding a mentor in the veterinary field can provide guidance and encouragement as you navigate your academic and career path. Look for local veterinarians who may be willing to share their experiences with you or consider reaching out to professionals through networking events or online platforms like LinkedIn. A mentor can offer valuable insights into the profession and help you stay motivated.
4. Expand Your Volunteer Experience While volunteering at an animal shelter is commendable, consider diversifying your experiences further. Look for opportunities such as internships at veterinary clinics, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or research labs focused on animal health issues. Each experience will not only enhance your resume but also deepen your understanding of various aspects of veterinary medicine.
5. Engage with Animal Welfare Initiatives Participate actively in initiatives aimed at improving animal welfare within your community or beyond. This could involve organizing awareness campaigns about responsible pet ownership, participating in spay/neuter programs, or advocating for legislation that protects animals. Such involvement will not only bolster your resume but also establish you as someone committed to making a difference.
6. Focus on Academic Improvement If you’re struggling with rigorous courses and have received lower grades than desired, it’s essential to develop effective study habits and seek academic support when needed. Utilize resources such as tutoring services at school or online platforms that offer assistance in challenging subjects like biology and chemistry—both crucial for veterinary studies.
7. Build a Personal Brand As you work towards becoming known for your contributions to animal welfare and veterinary medicine, consider how you can build a personal brand around these efforts. Create social media profiles dedicated to sharing insights about animal care, educational content about veterinary science, or updates on your volunteer work. Engaging content can attract followers who share similar interests and amplify your message.
8. Stay Informed About Veterinary Trends Keeping up-to-date with advancements in veterinary medicine is vital for any aspiring veterinarian. Subscribe to reputable journals such as the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) or follow organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Understanding current trends will not only enhance your knowledge but also prepare you for discussions during interviews or networking events.
9. Cultivate Resilience The journey toward becoming a veterinarian is often filled with challenges; cultivating resilience will be key to overcoming setbacks along the way. Practice self-care techniques such as mindfulness meditation or physical exercise which can help manage stress levels effectively while maintaining focus on your goals.
10. Celebrate Small Wins Finally, recognize and celebrate small achievements along the way—whether it’s improving a grade from a C to a B or completing another volunteer shift at the shelter—acknowledging these milestones will keep you motivated and reinforce your commitment toward making an impact in veterinary medicine.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and dedication towards helping animals globally through veterinary practices; you’ll position yourself well not just academically but also socially within communities focused on animal welfare.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): A leading organization representing veterinarians across America that provides resources on education pathways and current trends in veterinary medicine.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA): A peer-reviewed journal offering research articles that cover various aspects of veterinary science including clinical practices and advancements.
National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA): An organization dedicated to promoting humane treatment of animals through education and advocacy efforts which aligns closely with volunteer opportunities available for aspiring veterinarians.
Probability that this answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
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Mahlomola Mpoka
Technician mechanic's and electrical mechanical
2
Answers
Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
Updated
Mahlomola’s Answer
Rekindling Your Passion and Making a Difference
It's fantastic that you have a passion for veterinary medicine and a desire to make a significant impact on the world. Here are some ideas to help you reignite your passion and achieve your goals:
1. Reconnect with Your Why:
* Reflect on Your Motivations: Why did you initially choose veterinary medicine? What inspires you about animals?
* Visualize Your Impact: Imagine the positive change you can make in the lives of animals and their owners.
* Set Clear Goals: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps.
2. Seek Inspiration:
* Read Inspiring Stories: Learn about the lives of renowned veterinarians and animal activists.
* Watch Documentaries: Explore documentaries about animal conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, and veterinary practices.
* Volunteer: Spend time volunteering at animal shelters, wildlife sanctuaries, or veterinary clinics.
3. Stay Connected with Your Passion:
* Join Animal Organizations: Participate in animal welfare groups, conservation societies, or veterinary associations.
* Network with Like-Minded Individuals: Connect with other aspiring veterinarians and animal lovers.
* Attend Conferences and Workshops: Expand your knowledge and skills by attending industry events.
4. Innovative Ideas to Make a Difference:
* Develop Innovative Treatments: Research and develop new treatments or technologies to improve animal health.
* Promote Animal Welfare: Advocate for animal rights and welfare through education and activism.
* Establish a Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: Create a sanctuary to rescue and rehabilitate injured or orphaned wildlife.
* Start a Veterinary Clinic in Underserved Areas: Provide affordable veterinary care to communities in need.
* Conduct Research on Zoonotic Diseases: Contribute to scientific research to prevent the spread of diseases between animals and humans.
* Develop Sustainable Farming Practices: Promote environmentally friendly and ethical farming methods.
5. Share Your Passion with Others:
* Blog or Vlog: Share your experiences, knowledge, and passion through a blog or vlog.
* Give Talks and Presentations: Educate others about animal welfare, conservation, and veterinary medicine.
* Write Books or Articles: Share your insights and expertise with a wider audience.
* Mentor Young People: Inspire the next generation of animal lovers and veterinarians.
Remember, making a difference doesn't always require grand gestures. Small, consistent actions can have a significant impact. Stay true to your passion, work hard, and never stop believing in your ability to make a positive change in the world.
It's fantastic that you have a passion for veterinary medicine and a desire to make a significant impact on the world. Here are some ideas to help you reignite your passion and achieve your goals:
1. Reconnect with Your Why:
* Reflect on Your Motivations: Why did you initially choose veterinary medicine? What inspires you about animals?
* Visualize Your Impact: Imagine the positive change you can make in the lives of animals and their owners.
* Set Clear Goals: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps.
2. Seek Inspiration:
* Read Inspiring Stories: Learn about the lives of renowned veterinarians and animal activists.
* Watch Documentaries: Explore documentaries about animal conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, and veterinary practices.
* Volunteer: Spend time volunteering at animal shelters, wildlife sanctuaries, or veterinary clinics.
3. Stay Connected with Your Passion:
* Join Animal Organizations: Participate in animal welfare groups, conservation societies, or veterinary associations.
* Network with Like-Minded Individuals: Connect with other aspiring veterinarians and animal lovers.
* Attend Conferences and Workshops: Expand your knowledge and skills by attending industry events.
4. Innovative Ideas to Make a Difference:
* Develop Innovative Treatments: Research and develop new treatments or technologies to improve animal health.
* Promote Animal Welfare: Advocate for animal rights and welfare through education and activism.
* Establish a Wildlife Rehabilitation Center: Create a sanctuary to rescue and rehabilitate injured or orphaned wildlife.
* Start a Veterinary Clinic in Underserved Areas: Provide affordable veterinary care to communities in need.
* Conduct Research on Zoonotic Diseases: Contribute to scientific research to prevent the spread of diseases between animals and humans.
* Develop Sustainable Farming Practices: Promote environmentally friendly and ethical farming methods.
5. Share Your Passion with Others:
* Blog or Vlog: Share your experiences, knowledge, and passion through a blog or vlog.
* Give Talks and Presentations: Educate others about animal welfare, conservation, and veterinary medicine.
* Write Books or Articles: Share your insights and expertise with a wider audience.
* Mentor Young People: Inspire the next generation of animal lovers and veterinarians.
Remember, making a difference doesn't always require grand gestures. Small, consistent actions can have a significant impact. Stay true to your passion, work hard, and never stop believing in your ability to make a positive change in the world.
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Bob Echols
Retired lawyer and ethics officer--current blogger and author of the For Our Friends the Animals quartet.
28
Answers
Fairhope, Alabama
Updated
Bob’s Answer
Hello, Emily. You ask profound questions, and it is my privilege to answer them to the best of my ability to do so.
First, I commend you highly for wishing to help animals; a career as a veterinarian is a marvelous place to start. As I suspect you are aware, gaining admission to vet school is most rigorous these days, so study hard, both in high school and in college. Somewhere there is likely a recommended course of study for admission to vet school. Find that recommendation and then follow it as best as you can. My guess is such a recommendation includes plenty of science and math, especially biology, so study hard!
I also commend you for volunteering at animal shelters. Not only is this good for the animals, but in so doing you demonstrate an interest in animals welfare which is a key component of becoming a veterinarian. In addition, your service at a shelter will undoubtedly provide you with knowledge of animal behavior and health, again both keys to possess in becoming and being a vet.
And now the hard part of your query; namely, how does one etch one's life on the pages of history? The answer may disappoint you, but it is the right answer.
I have found that, save for marauding conquerors of old (Caesar, Genghis Khan, Attila) most people who end up making the pages of history never started out with that in mind. They simply choose a path of behavior that aligned closely with their goals and beliefs and followed that path throughout life, accomplishing the tasks in front of them along that path to the best of their ability, utilizing their talents as completely and fully as possible.
There are many examples, but I'll supply you with two for your further research: Mother Teresa and Albert Schweitzer. The latter is my hero, was a great champion of animals, and gave us the loving philosophy of a reverence for life.
Neither person set out to become famous; rather, they set out to fulfill what they saw as their duty--helping other beings.
So my heartfelt advice to you is this: find your path in which you offer the most assistance you can to God's creatures, use your talents and education every day in furtherance of that duty, and who knows, you may well be famous.
Far more importantly, you will be useful to those who are suffering, who are in need of help, and there is no greater calling for any human being.
May God bless you, now and always!!
First, I commend you highly for wishing to help animals; a career as a veterinarian is a marvelous place to start. As I suspect you are aware, gaining admission to vet school is most rigorous these days, so study hard, both in high school and in college. Somewhere there is likely a recommended course of study for admission to vet school. Find that recommendation and then follow it as best as you can. My guess is such a recommendation includes plenty of science and math, especially biology, so study hard!
I also commend you for volunteering at animal shelters. Not only is this good for the animals, but in so doing you demonstrate an interest in animals welfare which is a key component of becoming a veterinarian. In addition, your service at a shelter will undoubtedly provide you with knowledge of animal behavior and health, again both keys to possess in becoming and being a vet.
And now the hard part of your query; namely, how does one etch one's life on the pages of history? The answer may disappoint you, but it is the right answer.
I have found that, save for marauding conquerors of old (Caesar, Genghis Khan, Attila) most people who end up making the pages of history never started out with that in mind. They simply choose a path of behavior that aligned closely with their goals and beliefs and followed that path throughout life, accomplishing the tasks in front of them along that path to the best of their ability, utilizing their talents as completely and fully as possible.
There are many examples, but I'll supply you with two for your further research: Mother Teresa and Albert Schweitzer. The latter is my hero, was a great champion of animals, and gave us the loving philosophy of a reverence for life.
Neither person set out to become famous; rather, they set out to fulfill what they saw as their duty--helping other beings.
So my heartfelt advice to you is this: find your path in which you offer the most assistance you can to God's creatures, use your talents and education every day in furtherance of that duty, and who knows, you may well be famous.
Far more importantly, you will be useful to those who are suffering, who are in need of help, and there is no greater calling for any human being.
May God bless you, now and always!!
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Emily, what a great question. The generation before you and perhaps which you are also part of thinks in global terms for their career and your question is in line with that. History, after all, is a global discipline, which is both across countries and across time. My answer has to do with it not always being clear what history really is going to say about you. Look at the recent passing of former US President Carter. His presidency was not judged to be successful on many accounts; that being said, on some aspects, we are still in the process of assessing its lasting impact. Also, through his long life, and having championed many political causes, history will allow his impact to be measured, not just by the most important job he held. What an interesting thing to learn about history. History also seems to be full of irony as we prepare for a day of national mourning. So you have had a few C's in your junior year, probably in very challenging courses, and these setbacks may close the doors on your aspirations of becoming a vet. I recently wrote a letter of reference for someone applying to vet school. The person didn't get accepted at any of the veterinary schools applied to. At one vet school according to this person the GPA cut-off (college coursework) was missed by less than a tenth. I don't really know what to make of it. It's a shame that it comes down to such small margins. But schools have to have criteria for selection. So, what to do with these C's? One good thing about them is that you can improve. Maybe you have some A's, too. With those, you are at the top; it's not really clear what you need to do to improve. AP courses and the like were, in the past, counted extra by some schools (for college entrance); I don't know if that is still the case. You write about losing faith. Isn't keeping the faith, plugging away at something, more likely to give you a chance at making an impact. Though some history is made by chance encounters, I believe lasting impressions are made through lasting effort. I like the way you asked your question. There are many elements in there you will be able to work with moving forward and others who will help you meet your goals will look for these very elements. P.S. I have found veterinary medicine to be a worthy goal of striving towards. Maybe you will, too.