Knowing the path & Walking the path
Some of us had trouble finding the path to becoming a veterinarian and exactly what schools were out there.
Below is some information to help you find your path.
Undergraduate
A good undergraduate program will lay a sturdy foundation for your career in veterinary medicine, so make sure you research the school in which you wish pursue your animal science (pre-vet) degree. And since science is such an essential part of your studies, talk with some of the professors and especially students that are involved with the science department. In addition, your agriculture department is your link to veterinary school. Upon finalizing your degree plan, you should be assigned an advisor within the Ag. Department to help you walk across the stage four years later. This person is your best friend, listen to her/him, they know what they are talking about. Make time to sit down with this person to let them know that you are serious about becoming a vet.
You will hear many rumors from friends, family, and classmates about becoming a vet. They will tell you what classes to take, what professors to avoid and discourage you along the way. Ignore them. Listen to your advisor. Consult them regularly and be sure to thank them for making time in their schedule for you. Most advisors, or introductory Ag. classes will require you to make a four year plan, a plan of what classes to take each semester based on when you have completed the prerequisites and when the courses are offered. When your done with this plan and it is approved by your advisor, stick to it. Try your best not to drop any courses. When it is time to enroll for the next semester, make sure you are one of the first students signed up that way you get the classes that you want. Most importantly talk with your advisor, stay disciplined, stay focused, stay flexible, and have a little fun every once in while.
Vet Schools (Graduate)
Just like any undergraduate program, choosing your veterinary school is important. There a many things to consider besides "Which is the best?" Consider the many costs; moving expenses, in-state versus out-of-state tuition and the cost of staying in touch with family and friends.
As mentioned above, there are many rumors that fly around and among them are rumors about different veterinary colleges and what it takes to get accepted to them. It seems there has been a recent trend in some veterinary schools to emphasize the importance of working in the field as well as academics. Do not take this rumor at face value. Academics are paramount. Don't fool yourself into thinking that sacrificing your GPA more than a tenth of a point and working for a veterinarian, to gain work experience, is going to help you get into a veterinary school. This very idea is one of the basis of the pre-veterinary society. We will help you gain experience, if even only on a voluntary basis, by putting you in contact with local veterinarians and ranchers.
