Veterinarians are medical specialists and doctors for animals and are responsible for their overall healthcare and well-being. These physicians need to work very hard and go through years of rigorous medical education before they earn the license to practice professionally. Vet schools are no less difficult than other medical fields. Students also undergo veterinary school clinical rotations like any other type of medical training.
Read on to know what are the important things to consider before you opt for a veterinary education.
- Get Started Early – In School
The right time to start preparing for a veterinary education is in high school itself. Hence, the subjects you choose will really matter for your career in this field ahead. Choose subjects like Chemistry, Biology, Physics etc. to have a solid foundation of the basic sciences. Work on your communication skills and collaborative skills while in school. Gaining some real experience with animals is of tremendous importance for a career in veterinary medicine ahead. Opt to shadow a vet in a clinic, or volunteer for an organization to gain an understanding and knowledge of animals in a more professional setting. In schools, make use of clubs and join them to improve on your public speaking and leadership qualities too. Admission committees in every school look for students who have strong soft skills as well.
- Pre-vet school coursework
A lot of universities don’t ask for any specific or particular undergraduate program as the prerequisite to apply for veterinary medicine. However, there are some subjects that are always preferred and required as prerequisites – – Some subjects are Chemistry, Physics, Statistics, Genetics, Mathematics etc. Opt for courses on English, social sciences, public speaking etc. You may choose an Animal Science or Biological Science majors as BA programs.
- GRE and MCAT requirements
Before enrolling on a DVM program, students are required to clear their GREs. Their grades will be submitted to the office of admissions. The GRE is required for evaluation of a student’s analytic, verbal, quantitative skills that would be greatly required for a successful career as a veterinarian. Some colleges however make the exemption and also accept MCAT scores for evaluation of a candidate. Both these tests are designed to gauge the critical thinking and intellectual abilities of students. However, MCATs are more extensive in their coverage as well as scope. GRE is a more recommended course of action to take. Certain schools also conducted their own VCAT, which stands for Veterinary College Admission Test. Research the institutes you want to apply in and read up the prerequisites you’ll need from beforehand.
- Some research experience
Several veterinary medicine programs expect their applicants to have research experience esp in a laboratory as it lends invaluable attributes and reflects the fact that a student is enthusiastic and passionate about their science. Lab experiences help students learn to think critically, independently, and responsibly.
Every school has their own set of expectations but there are certain prerequisites that are common in most schools. Hence, this article is sure to help aspiring vet students.
