For a lot of my life I wanted to be a veterinarian. Im a junior in college and preparing to get ready to apply to veterinary schools, which Ive been told is no easy task. I feel, however, that no matter how much I love it maybe im not meant to be a vet. I took a class with a lot of other veterinary students all applying to vet schools and they all got As and A-s in the course. I got a B+. I cant help but feel that if I were really good enough to be a vet then wouldnt I have been in that A range with them. Am I just kidding myself staying this major thinking that ill actually succeed?
2006-12-07 06:27:43 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
Don't be so hard on yourself. Follow your dream. I didn't even think that I would be able to handle college with 2 children, but I graduated with honors. Set a goal for yourself. And if the A range is your goal give it your all. I believe in you.
2006-12-07 06:34:19 · answer #1 · answered by Proud Mama 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It doesn't matter how you did compared to the rest of your classmates. There are some people who are amazingly book smart and are horrible with people, animals or both. If you maintain a B average, you will most likely have no problem getting into a good vet school. Especially if you've got good experience to back you up. There is alot more to being a vet, and getting into school than just hitting the books. That is why they ask for what else you've done, if you've volunteered, taught, mentored, observed, worked during school, etc, etc, etc. Admissions committees know that book smarts don't always make a great vet. I'm not going to lie, it is incredibly difficult to get into school, but its not impossible.
2006-12-07 06:56:07 · answer #2 · answered by skachicah35 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's not easy to get into, nor to complete a veterinary doctoral program. Having said that, it's also not out of the realm of possibility for many. A "B+" by itself isn't going to keep you out of any program in the U.S.A.
Grades, particularly in the "hard" science courses such as chemistry, organic chemistry and physics are going to be extremely important. Most entering classes here average around 3.5 out of 4.0 GPA. There's no denying the importance of grades.
There's a good deal more than grades involved, however. Experience, test scores, pleasant, balanced personality, and proven ability to handle heavy course and/or work loads effectively are also quite important. Dedication to your goal, and, perhaps, another advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) can help.
Your experience and understanding of the profession is vital. It has not been too uncommon for veterinary schools to lose students due to the "oops" factor. Veterinary medicine is not mostly about white coats, stethoscopes, large staff, easy medical decisions, and cuddling cute puppies and kittens. And it does not provide the same level of remuneration that human medicine does. Students not having exposure to the whole profession sometimes belatedly realize that they would rather be elsewhere.
Check into any schools in which you have interest, See what their requirements are, and don't be afraid to ask to speak to a member of the admissions committee. Most of these folks want to help, not hinder your career aspirations. Obviously, if you are a resident of a state that has a veterinary college, that is likely to be your best chance. Check into Tuskegee University and Ross University, as well. Both are good schools that don't have a residence requirement. And don't discount trying the "at-large" application process.
It can be done. And the rewards are worth it to many of us. We DO get to make a real difference in the lives of the animals and the lives of their people. And the truth is, sometimes we DO get to be around and interact with cute puppies and kittens, and horses, and goats, and cattle, and llamas-- and on, and on..
Best of luck with your decision and your path to it.
2006-12-07 07:20:14 · answer #3 · answered by Lawrence M 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I've seen this alot. But I do know for a fact that Auburn's Vet school looks for the well rounded students. I've seen many students accepted that were average academic students but had exceptional extracurriculars. And I've seen straight A students rejected because they had nothing other than that. I think you should go for it. There is no harm in applying. If you don't get in you still get your bachelors and either get a job, or get a masters and reapply. But if you have made it through 3 years in a pre-vet program I think you have the determination and skill to do it. I only made it through 1/2 a semester in Pre-vet before I realized it wasn't for me. So go ahead and apply and go for your dreams. Even if you don't get in, you have all the tools you need to take the next step. Best of luck to you!
2006-12-07 08:39:57 · answer #4 · answered by auequine 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are being too hard on yourself. You honestly have a love for animals and I know some vets that are not that caring~their bedside manner sucks. You can make a difference. With hard work and determination you will do just fine. Go for it and good luck in your endevours!
2006-12-07 06:39:14 · answer #5 · answered by All 4 JR 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
hey! what's a B+ these days?:) i mean it from the heart.if u love animals i believe u will be a dedicated doctor.never give up on ur dream.maybe u should think, try and imagine urself doin smth else in the future, smth u like. would u be just as satisfied with that?
2006-12-07 06:49:18 · answer #6 · answered by krissa 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is not always a grade that decides if someone would be good with animals. If you truly care about them then I say stick with it.
Coach
2006-12-07 06:35:19 · answer #7 · answered by Thanks for the Yahoo Jacket 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
you can if this is how you are truely feeling or you can stick this major out an find out for yourself if it's really ment for you. good luck.
2006-12-07 06:32:53 · answer #8 · answered by Lisa C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋