michelle
how could i prepare to get into vetenerian school
# #college-admissions #college
2 answers
Cassandra Wheeler
Cassandra’s Answer
Preparing to get into veterinary school takes commitment and high grades. As a career counselor, I have met with several students who want to pursue that path. Professional schools want to know that you are focused and this is the path you want. So, you will have to ask yourself:
1: Why this field, what happened in my past that made me realize I want to do this?
2: What type of animals do I want to work with? Small or large (animals in a zoo)?
3: Do I want to go into conservation of wildlife? Or do I want to own my own practice? Or do I want to work with food safety (USDA)?
4: Have I volunteered/worked with animals? How long?
When you apply to Vet School, you will be asked to write an essay and the questions above can help you get started on developing that essay.
You will also want to start volunteering (if you are not currently doing so) at an animal shelter, at a zoo, applying for internships at amusement parks that have animals such as SeaWorld, Six Flags, or Disney. If you want to work in Food Safety then you may want to apply for internships at USDA or the meat department at your local grocery store.
This volunteer or work experience will help you answer questions 2 and 3.
Once you have figured out what you want, then you can research the veterinary schools, look at their programs, look at the faculty to see their background and what schools they attended, and most importantly, ask if the program provides internship opportunities. You also want to ask where the alumni are currently employed.
Once you graduate, you can apply for this entry level training program from the USDA: (if this is the area you want to work in)
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/animal_health/bro-vmo-program.pdf
Loan repayment information:
http://aavmc.org/additional-pages/funding-a-veterinary-medical-education.aspx
Cassandra recommends the following next steps:
Heather Youskauskas
Heather’s Answer
I echo the above as my daughter is also considering a veterinary track for college and beyond. She has spoken with several veterinarians as well in an effort to find out the best path to take. Several have mentioned they first became Vet Technicians before committing to Vet school to ensure it was truly what they wanted to do. Additionally, it gave them a greater appreciation for the position for when they became a veterinarian.
Lastly, volunteering is required when applying for Vet school. You can accomplish this through various internships with local vet clinics or vet hospitals as well as through volunteering at local pet shelters. Make sure you keep track of your hours as well.
My best to you in whatever path you choose!
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I echo the above as my daughter is also considering a veterinary track for college and beyond. She has spoken with several veterinarians as well in an effort to find out the best path to take. Several have mentioned they first became Vet Technicians before committing to Vet school to ensure it was truly what they wanted to do. Additionally, it gave them a greater appreciation for the position for when they became a veterinarian.
Lastly, volunteering is required when applying for Vet school. You can accomplish this through various internships with local vet clinics or vet hospitals as well as through volunteering at local pet shelters. Make sure you keep track of your hours as well.
My best to you in whatever path you choose!