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Failed vet tech, whats next?
When starting college, I decided to do into the veterinary technology route. However, after failing both anatomy and physiology, I'v decided it would e best for me to change majors.
Ive wanted to be a vet tech my whole life so now I feel completely stumped as to what to do next. I am currently a sophomore in college and dont have much time to explore my options. I plan on getting my associate's degree in the future, but for now Ijust need to gradute with something. Anyone have any tips? Or any other majors they would recommend?
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Doc’s Answer
Ana the qualifications to become an animal care technician include a high school diploma or equivalent and previous experience working with the types of animals you want to work with. It may be beneficial to gain some initial experience by volunteering at an animal shelter. Some employers require the American Association of Laboratory Animal Science certification (AALAS). The Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician credential (ALAT) is available after you have two years of experience or the equivalent, such as an associate degree and six months of animal care experience or animal husbandry. To stand out in your industry, you can earn a specialized certification for animal euthanasia or a veterinary assistant certificate. In general, you need to be physically fit and able to lift 50 pounds. Communication skills and emotional stability are crucial to succeed in this position.
Good Luck Ana
Good Luck Ana
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Margarita’s Answer
I am not sure what classes you've taken already. Can you go into vet technician or surgical assisting or even less vet but more science route? Any biology or chemistry degree would be useful if you want to do something lab or medicine related in the future.
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Adam’s Answer
Don't be discouraged. I wanted to be a physical therapy assistant at the beginning of my career journey, but failed kinesiology and they kicked me out of the program. After that, I found a career in healthcare IT. Kinda glad I didn't make it because I make way more now than I would've as a PTA and I have a ton of freedom.
There are many great degrees that you could pursue with your interests in animal care and science. Here are a few ideas:
Biology: This is a broad field that could give you a strong foundation in the sciences, which would be helpful for many different careers. You could specialize in areas like animal physiology, genetics, or ecology.
Zoology: This degree focuses on the study of animals, their behavior, and their habitats. You could work in a zoo, aquarium, or research lab.
Veterinary science: If you're still interested in working with animals in a veterinary setting, you could consider pursuing a degree in veterinary science. This would allow you to become a veterinarian, which is a challenging but rewarding career.
Animal behavior: This degree focuses on the study of animal behavior, which could be helpful for a career in animal training, research, or conservation.
Public health: This degree focuses on protecting the health of people and animals. You could work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies.
When choosing a new degree, it's important to consider your interests, skills, and career goals. You should also research the job market for different careers to make sure there is demand for your skills.
Here are some additional tips for making your decision:
* Talk to your academic advisor or career counselor. They can help you explore your options and make a decision that's right for you.
* Job shadow or internship in a field that interests you. This is a great way to get firsthand experience and see if it's a good fit for you.
* Take some online career assessments. These can help you identify your strengths and interests and match them to potential careers.
I hope this helps!
Research more than one new path of interest.
Don't ever give up!
Relax and don't rush. Life is short.
There are many great degrees that you could pursue with your interests in animal care and science. Here are a few ideas:
Biology: This is a broad field that could give you a strong foundation in the sciences, which would be helpful for many different careers. You could specialize in areas like animal physiology, genetics, or ecology.
Zoology: This degree focuses on the study of animals, their behavior, and their habitats. You could work in a zoo, aquarium, or research lab.
Veterinary science: If you're still interested in working with animals in a veterinary setting, you could consider pursuing a degree in veterinary science. This would allow you to become a veterinarian, which is a challenging but rewarding career.
Animal behavior: This degree focuses on the study of animal behavior, which could be helpful for a career in animal training, research, or conservation.
Public health: This degree focuses on protecting the health of people and animals. You could work in a variety of settings, such as government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies.
When choosing a new degree, it's important to consider your interests, skills, and career goals. You should also research the job market for different careers to make sure there is demand for your skills.
Here are some additional tips for making your decision:
* Talk to your academic advisor or career counselor. They can help you explore your options and make a decision that's right for you.
* Job shadow or internship in a field that interests you. This is a great way to get firsthand experience and see if it's a good fit for you.
* Take some online career assessments. These can help you identify your strengths and interests and match them to potential careers.
I hope this helps!
Adam recommends the following next steps:
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Al’s Answer
Ana. First of all, if you truly want to be a Vet Tech, don't give up. Learn from your experience -- what parts of anatomy and physiology gave you the most difficulty and what parts do you have "nailed"? Re-take the classes (perhaps not at the same time) and concentrate on improving the areas that are weakest. By the same token, if you really doubt that Vet Tech is your true desire, then switching to a Liberal Arts field as Todor suggests is a very good option. In any event, DO speak with your academic advisor and/or career counselor.
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Todor’s Answer
A liberal arts degree is a powerful tool that nurtures creativity and cultivates vital skills that are appreciated worldwide, such as research, analytical thinking, and inventive problem-solving. The comprehensive and diverse nature of a liberal arts education produces individuals equipped with robust research abilities, innovative problem-solving techniques, and sharp analytical thinking skills. These are all competencies that are greatly treasured across a wide range of industries.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Answers
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Ana,
Exploring Alternative Majors After Failing Vet Tech Courses
When faced with the challenge of having failed anatomy and physiology courses in pursuit of a veterinary technology degree, it can be disheartening. However, this setback does not mean the end of your academic journey or career aspirations. Here are some steps you can take to explore alternative majors and navigate this transition:
1. Self-Reflection and Career Assessment:
Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and values. Consider what aspects of being a vet tech appealed to you and explore if there are other fields that align with those interests.
Utilize career assessment tools or seek guidance from career counselors at your college to identify potential alternative majors that may be a better fit for you.
2. Research Alternative Majors:
Look into related fields such as animal science, biology, zoology, environmental science, or even healthcare administration.
Consider exploring majors that leverage your passion for animals but may not require the same level of anatomical knowledge as veterinary technology.
3. Meet with Academic Advisors:
Schedule meetings with academic advisors at your college to discuss your situation and explore alternative major options.
They can provide valuable insights into different programs, credit transfer opportunities, and potential career paths associated with various majors.
4. Consider Transferable Skills:
Identify the skills you have developed through your coursework in veterinary technology that may be transferable to other majors or professions.
Highlight these skills in your resume and cover letters when applying for new programs or jobs.
5. Stay Open-Minded:
While it’s natural to feel disappointed about changing paths, remember that setbacks can lead to new opportunities and growth.
Stay open-minded about exploring different fields and be willing to embrace change as part of your academic and professional journey.
6. Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review offers comprehensive resources on college majors, career exploration, and academic advice for students facing challenges in their educational journey.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides valuable data on various occupations, including job outlooks, salary information, and educational requirements, which can help guide students in choosing alternative majors.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): The AVMA offers insights into the veterinary profession, related careers in animal health, and educational pathways for individuals interested in working with animals.
By following these steps and seeking guidance from reputable sources like academic advisors and career resources, you can navigate this transition period successfully and find a major that aligns with your interests and goals.
God Bless You,
JC.
Exploring Alternative Majors After Failing Vet Tech Courses
When faced with the challenge of having failed anatomy and physiology courses in pursuit of a veterinary technology degree, it can be disheartening. However, this setback does not mean the end of your academic journey or career aspirations. Here are some steps you can take to explore alternative majors and navigate this transition:
1. Self-Reflection and Career Assessment:
Take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and values. Consider what aspects of being a vet tech appealed to you and explore if there are other fields that align with those interests.
Utilize career assessment tools or seek guidance from career counselors at your college to identify potential alternative majors that may be a better fit for you.
2. Research Alternative Majors:
Look into related fields such as animal science, biology, zoology, environmental science, or even healthcare administration.
Consider exploring majors that leverage your passion for animals but may not require the same level of anatomical knowledge as veterinary technology.
3. Meet with Academic Advisors:
Schedule meetings with academic advisors at your college to discuss your situation and explore alternative major options.
They can provide valuable insights into different programs, credit transfer opportunities, and potential career paths associated with various majors.
4. Consider Transferable Skills:
Identify the skills you have developed through your coursework in veterinary technology that may be transferable to other majors or professions.
Highlight these skills in your resume and cover letters when applying for new programs or jobs.
5. Stay Open-Minded:
While it’s natural to feel disappointed about changing paths, remember that setbacks can lead to new opportunities and growth.
Stay open-minded about exploring different fields and be willing to embrace change as part of your academic and professional journey.
6. Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review offers comprehensive resources on college majors, career exploration, and academic advice for students facing challenges in their educational journey.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS provides valuable data on various occupations, including job outlooks, salary information, and educational requirements, which can help guide students in choosing alternative majors.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA): The AVMA offers insights into the veterinary profession, related careers in animal health, and educational pathways for individuals interested in working with animals.
By following these steps and seeking guidance from reputable sources like academic advisors and career resources, you can navigate this transition period successfully and find a major that aligns with your interests and goals.
God Bless You,
JC.
Updated
Nirah’s Answer
Ana, while failing these core classes is certainly disappointing, you should not assume that it is the end of your career dreams. You did not say whether you are in a 2 year associate's program or a 4-year college, which makes a big difference. If you are in a 4-year program, you have time to retake these classes. If you are in a two-year program, your options are more limited, and failing two classes may mean you do not have enough credits to graduate in your planned timeframe.
The best advice I can give is to speak with a guidance counselor at your school. It sounds like your priority right now is to graduate, and make sure you have not wasted the money you have spent on tuition. The guidance counselor (or someone in the office of the Registrar) will be able to advise you on what you need to do to graduate (for example, you may not meet the requirements for the vet tech program, but may have enough credits in the right classes for a general biology degree). The next thing to assess is whether you should indeed give up on being a vet tech. Failing the classes doesn't necessarily mean you don't know the material, you may just be an inexperienced test-taker. Discuss with the professors whether they think you understand most of the material, and if retaking the courses (perhaps with some tutoring) would result in success.
I won't sugar-coat this- as a vet tech, you will have the lives of animals in your hands, and failure to understand anatomy and physiology could result in you harming a patient. Vet techs typically are responsible for monitoring anesthesia of animals, and a failure to understand physiology could result in a fatal mistake. If you really don't have an aptitude for this type of material (which requires a lot of memorization and visualization), you might be better off in a different field. There are MANY ways you can work with animals that do not require the highly technical training of a vet tech. If you are looking for inspiration, check out the US Bureau of Labor website to search for animal-related careers.
www.bls.gov for detailed information about different career options.
The best advice I can give is to speak with a guidance counselor at your school. It sounds like your priority right now is to graduate, and make sure you have not wasted the money you have spent on tuition. The guidance counselor (or someone in the office of the Registrar) will be able to advise you on what you need to do to graduate (for example, you may not meet the requirements for the vet tech program, but may have enough credits in the right classes for a general biology degree). The next thing to assess is whether you should indeed give up on being a vet tech. Failing the classes doesn't necessarily mean you don't know the material, you may just be an inexperienced test-taker. Discuss with the professors whether they think you understand most of the material, and if retaking the courses (perhaps with some tutoring) would result in success.
I won't sugar-coat this- as a vet tech, you will have the lives of animals in your hands, and failure to understand anatomy and physiology could result in you harming a patient. Vet techs typically are responsible for monitoring anesthesia of animals, and a failure to understand physiology could result in a fatal mistake. If you really don't have an aptitude for this type of material (which requires a lot of memorization and visualization), you might be better off in a different field. There are MANY ways you can work with animals that do not require the highly technical training of a vet tech. If you are looking for inspiration, check out the US Bureau of Labor website to search for animal-related careers.
Nirah recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Nirah’s Answer
Ana, while failing these core classes is certainly disappointing, you should not assume that it is the end of your career aspirations. You did not say whether you are in a 2 year associate's program or a 4-year college, which makes a big difference. If you are in a 4-year program, you have time to retake these classes. If you are in a two-year program, your options are more limited, as failing two classes may mean you do not have enough credits to graduate in your planned timeframe.
The best advice I can give is to speak with a guidance counselor at your school. It sounds like your priority right now is to graduate, and make sure you have not wasted the money you have spent on tuition. The guidance counselor (or someone in the office of the Registrar) will be able to advise you on what you need to do to graduate. For example, you may not meet the requirements for the vet tech program, but may have enough credits in the right classes for a general biology degree. The next thing to assess is whether you should indeed give up on being a vet tech. Failing the classes doesn't necessarily mean you don't know the material. You may just be an inexperienced test-taker. Discuss with the professors whether they think you understand most of the material, and if retaking the courses (perhaps with some tutoring) would result in success.
I won't sugar-coat this: as a vet tech, you will have the lives of animals in your hands, and failure to understand anatomy and physiology could result in you harming a patient. Vet techs typically are responsible for monitoring anesthesia of animals, and a failure to understand physiology could result in a fatal mistake. If you really don't have an aptitude for this type of material (which requires a lot of memorization and visualization), you might be better off in a different field. There are MANY ways you can work with animals that do not require the highly technical training of a vet tech. If you are looking for inspiration, check out the US Bureau of Labor website to search for animal-related careers.
www.bls.gov for detailed information about different career options.
The best advice I can give is to speak with a guidance counselor at your school. It sounds like your priority right now is to graduate, and make sure you have not wasted the money you have spent on tuition. The guidance counselor (or someone in the office of the Registrar) will be able to advise you on what you need to do to graduate. For example, you may not meet the requirements for the vet tech program, but may have enough credits in the right classes for a general biology degree. The next thing to assess is whether you should indeed give up on being a vet tech. Failing the classes doesn't necessarily mean you don't know the material. You may just be an inexperienced test-taker. Discuss with the professors whether they think you understand most of the material, and if retaking the courses (perhaps with some tutoring) would result in success.
I won't sugar-coat this: as a vet tech, you will have the lives of animals in your hands, and failure to understand anatomy and physiology could result in you harming a patient. Vet techs typically are responsible for monitoring anesthesia of animals, and a failure to understand physiology could result in a fatal mistake. If you really don't have an aptitude for this type of material (which requires a lot of memorization and visualization), you might be better off in a different field. There are MANY ways you can work with animals that do not require the highly technical training of a vet tech. If you are looking for inspiration, check out the US Bureau of Labor website to search for animal-related careers.
Nirah recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Flora’s Answer
Ana,
Remember, failure is not the end but a stepping stone to redirection. It's crucial to pour your heart and soul into your chosen career path. A setback in your anatomy and physiology class doesn't mean you should abandon your dreams.
Seek guidance from a college counselor and explore the possibility of tutoring services provided by the school or even a helpful classmate. Don't hesitate to reach out to your professor and ask for tips on how to effectively study for exams.
If, after several attempts, you're still struggling to pass these classes, consider a different major where your credits can be transferred. It's essential to deeply reflect on your dream and evaluate if you possess the required skills and passion to pursue it.
A great way to gain insights is by seizing internship opportunities your school offers or volunteering in areas that align with your interests. This experience will be priceless. Always keep an open mind, heed the advice of experts, but also trust your instincts and create your unique journey. After all, it's your future we're talking about.
Here's hoping you find the solution you're seeking and feel content with your decision. Stay positive and keep striving, Ana!
Remember, failure is not the end but a stepping stone to redirection. It's crucial to pour your heart and soul into your chosen career path. A setback in your anatomy and physiology class doesn't mean you should abandon your dreams.
Seek guidance from a college counselor and explore the possibility of tutoring services provided by the school or even a helpful classmate. Don't hesitate to reach out to your professor and ask for tips on how to effectively study for exams.
If, after several attempts, you're still struggling to pass these classes, consider a different major where your credits can be transferred. It's essential to deeply reflect on your dream and evaluate if you possess the required skills and passion to pursue it.
A great way to gain insights is by seizing internship opportunities your school offers or volunteering in areas that align with your interests. This experience will be priceless. Always keep an open mind, heed the advice of experts, but also trust your instincts and create your unique journey. After all, it's your future we're talking about.
Here's hoping you find the solution you're seeking and feel content with your decision. Stay positive and keep striving, Ana!
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ash’s Answer
Major switches are common and it is better to do so earlier than later.
There are a lot places to look including online, your professors, teachers, family and friends but prior to asking them open ended questions. do your homework..here are some guidelines for it and write everything down if possible and why
Fantastic inquiry! Don't fret if you're still uncertain about your career trajectory. It's perfectly normal to switch careers multiple times throughout your lifetime.
1. Identify your passions - What are the activities you relish so much that you'd engage in them even without a paycheck?
2. Discover your curiosity triggers - Which topics naturally ignite your interest?
3. Recognize your inherent talents - In which areas do you find comprehension effortless?
4. Familiarize yourself with the job market - What competencies are employers currently seeking?
5. Explore in-demand jobs - Which roles are companies willing to offer generous compensation for?
6. Find the intersection - Where do your passions, talents, and market demands converge?
This is an outstanding starting point. Once you've identified a few potential roles, reach out to individuals who are already in those positions and gain insights from their experiences. If possible, consider spending some time observing them at work to get a practical understanding of the job.
There are a lot places to look including online, your professors, teachers, family and friends but prior to asking them open ended questions. do your homework..here are some guidelines for it and write everything down if possible and why
Fantastic inquiry! Don't fret if you're still uncertain about your career trajectory. It's perfectly normal to switch careers multiple times throughout your lifetime.
1. Identify your passions - What are the activities you relish so much that you'd engage in them even without a paycheck?
2. Discover your curiosity triggers - Which topics naturally ignite your interest?
3. Recognize your inherent talents - In which areas do you find comprehension effortless?
4. Familiarize yourself with the job market - What competencies are employers currently seeking?
5. Explore in-demand jobs - Which roles are companies willing to offer generous compensation for?
6. Find the intersection - Where do your passions, talents, and market demands converge?
This is an outstanding starting point. Once you've identified a few potential roles, reach out to individuals who are already in those positions and gain insights from their experiences. If possible, consider spending some time observing them at work to get a practical understanding of the job.
Updated
Keyana’s Answer
Hi Ana, I am sorry that you are feeling this way. As a veterinary technician I know how this can feel. I hope a little bit of my story helps. I also failed anatomy and physiology. I had to retake the class in order to pass of course. I realized that I just needed to take my time and try different study techniques. After I finally passed, I quit my second semester and was contacted by the school 4 months later about my progress. I decided to keep going. I got to the end and graduated; however, I failed the VTNE twice. I eventually passed it on my third try, but you can imagine the defeat I felt! My point is do not give up. If you feel that you need to take a break to refocus, that is perfectly normal. You can in the mean time be a veterinary assistant while still in school so you can continue to gain more skills.
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