I recently got some questions from a Pre-Vet that were pretty specific and I don't think they are the only one out there wanting to know my answers to these questions, so I thought I would share. Some are about life balance and very general, while others discuss the application process and getting experience.
Q1: Transition from community college to university
As a transfer student myself, I know first hand how the transition from community college to university can be difficult and overwhelming. I would recommend to anyone doing this to actively seek your school counselors (at both schools) and other resources. Make sure you plan ahead. I signed a transfer agreement to get into UC Davis and that took a lot of the pressure off my shoulders. In California, you can use assist.org to help you figure out what classes transfer. Along the way you need to map out your classes and figure out an ideal class load that works for you. I took 5 years to complete my undergraduate education because I took a ton of extra classes at community college to make sure I knew what I wanted to do. Here are some general tips.
Q2: Maintaining confidence and self worth
Have you ever heard of the imposter syndrome? If not, you need to read about it! It doesn't matter how well we individually do, we'll probably never feel like we're good enough. We hold up this warped mirror to ourselves, and see only the mistakes and the setbacks. It would be nice to just walk away from that feeling, to silence the little voice that says 'stupid and worthless,' to acknowledge that it's not right. Another link.
Q3: Doubt about getting into veterinary school
This is a problem we all have! Also associated with imposter syndrome above. You just have to do your best and be proud of yourself.
Q4: What defines what we are doing well enough? Volunteer work/research/classes/grades
I think the only thing that defines you is YOU! You need to check in with yourself and see how you feel inside about all these things. For example, GRADES...ya, they are necessary, just because I got a few C's in undergrad didn't mean I wouldn't get into veterinary school, just because I had to repeat a few exams in veterinary school doesn't mean I won't be a good vet. Really, I'm not a great test taker, but in the real practical world, I excel. You define YOURSELF.
Q5: My Experience hours before vet school – paid vs. volunteer, diversity of experiences - does it matter?
Ultimately it doesn't matter how you acquire the experience (paid vs. unpaid) - but you should have a diversity. Many of my classmates had little experience in some areas (with horses for example) - but it didn't mean they didn't get in, so get experience in whatever field of veterinary medicine you want to enter so you will have an idea what the outlook for that sector is like. A chance to get your hands dirty so to speak.
Q6: Do they look at experience between your application and the interview? Do they assume that more and more experience hours will be sought after from the time of the application until admittance? Or is it one of those things where you better have the majority of your stuff at the time of the application?
With the new way UC Davis interviews applicants, I'm not sure. I think they look at your application only after you submit it. Check out the School's interview process for specifics, if you have a 1 on 1 interview, you can likely discuss your experience between the time of application and interview. I was able to at Davis, but like I said they have changed the interview process. More info on MMI interviews.
Q7: Best advice for the application process
Start EARLY! It takes a long time to fill out the application - even if you're not applying this year, create a log-in and navigate the website. You will see how much detail they want. They do want you to log all your "animal experience" hours. You could even do a test run and print your application for the following year to assist yourself in the application process, but I wouldn't say that is necessary.
Q8: Text anxiety
Well, I'm a prime example for this one. My anxiety grew over the years and well, lets just say, it's not easy to deal with. There are resources at most universities to help you deal with this, I think you just need to find what works for you and you can really alleviate some of the anxiety by preparing adequately for a test, being organized and having effective study strategies in place. This can be difficult to accomplish in veterinary school. I find peace in that the one exam I am anxious about will only be for that place in time, i.e. none of my future clients/employers are going to suddenly pull out a test I got a C in and wave it in my face or torment me, what matters is that I pass and I know how to apply the material. Also for some reason for me, making sure my feet are planted flat on the ground during an exam (not crossed or twitching) really helps! And deep breaths. Definitely a change in attitude helps - try to have a positive outlook.
Resources: http://www.studygs.net/tstprp8.htm
http://shcs.ucdavis.edu/topics/test-taking.html
Q9: As a student whose interested in captive breeding research, and zoological medicine, where do you recommend I look for some great volunteer/research opportunities for this specific field of interest?
Of course wild life rescues and zoos will teach you a lot. There is so much research at/through UC Davis. And you could check out the marine mammals lab near Bodega Bay. I don't know much specifically than that, but I am sure google will help!
Q10: Is it okay to wait and submit it at the end of august so I can have more experience available to note and to write about in my personal statement? Or is it best to get it in as fast as possible?
They don't begin looking at applications that are submitted early. I believe they wait until all applications are submitted to start going through them, so I don't think you'll have an advantage submitting it early. Take your time, make sure the application is complete and strong. I would note all your summer experience.
Q11: Should I only apply to 3 schools?
You should only apply to the schools that you would go to. I.e. if you don't want to live in Florida or could not stand to live in Florida for FOUR years, don't even try! I only applied to UC Davis cause I really didn't want to go anywhere else. So it doesn't really matter how many you apply to, although it will increase your odds, but each school can't see how many other schools you applied to, so keep that in mind.
Q12: How do I go about getting LOR without sounding like an idiot? And who should I ask?
This is a great question! I looked back to see if I addressed this in my blog past, but the only thing I found was a blog post on tips on finding a mentor. Letters of recommendation are VERY important when applying to US schools. I agree it is awkward to ask for letters, but entirely necessary. I usually say, "I have enjoyed working with you these past few years, and I really think you have a valuable opinion on my goals, as well as my strengths and weaknesses. I am applying to veterinary school and I would be honored if you would so kindly write me a letter of recommendation." It is also important to emphasize the question, "would you be able to provide me a STRONG letter of reference?" This will root out the people you may not want to write your letter. And best advice is to ask as early as possible! It takes time to compose a good letter. And offer to provide them with resources, like lists of your past experiences, your personal statement, etc.
