There has been a great debate on the NEED for veterinarians to join the profession. Many people say we need more vets, but this is not true. What we do need is more vets in rural communities - however most vets can't afford to practice in these rural communities. We also have a share of animal welfare organizations working with vets to provide care to the communities in need by offering sterilization and vaccination clinics.
As a veterinary student graduating in 2014 I find it daunting to know that it will be difficult to find a job. I am in a very fortunate situation to have a limited amount school loans and the ability to use my resources and acquaintances to find a job, but many of my classmates are starting from scratch and on top of that they will have over $200,000 in debt.
To think that when the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine opened in 2003, it was the first veterinary school to open in the United States in 20 years. Now it is quite possible that FOUR new veterinary schools may be opened in the next four years, with one opening it's doors in 2014.
The AVMA really needs to do more research as to the shortages in veterinary medicine and take a strong stance in support of current veterinarians.
People considering applying to veterinary school in the future should also do their research and be careful and smart when pursing their future educational goals.
Links:
New Vet School Plans Press On Amid an Industry in Flux
More Bad News for New Vets - Dr. Bern
Tight Job Market Squeezes Large Animal Vets - VIN
