What undergraduate degree is best for applying to a Veterinarian Graduate Program?
I will be a high school graduate in 2019 and I am considering a major in Pre-Veterinary Medicine or Animal Sciences. Which is the most competitive degree when applying to a school of Veterinary Medicine?
#medicine #veterinarian #veterinary-medicine
1 answer
Ashley’s Answer
Hi Grace! I am not a veterinarian but my daughter wants to be one and so I have learned a lot over the past few years during her journey. A friend who is a veterinarian has suggested to my daughter that she major in something other chemistry or biology and instead major in business. As a vet, you will likely have to run your own business one day (especially if you start your own practice) and having a business background can be very helpful. Also, having a business degree (or something else if you choose) will distinguish you from the other candidates that are most likely science majors. Apparently the vast majority of vet school applicants are females with science majors, so setting yourself apart with a different major could really help you. Given vet schools are so competitive, it is good to have a major you can fall back on in case it takes a few years to be accepted to the school of your dreams!
A couple other tips:
- Look up the vet school you are most interested in attending and they typically post the profile of the students that were accepted that year - you can see what schools they come from.
- Most of the top vet schools have summer camps. They are expensive, but they offer financial aid
- Find a local vet who will help you with questions - if you have a pet, this is a good way to find one who will chat with you! You can also volunteer to help at their office.
- Volunteer with your local animal shelter or rescue
Hope this helps!