questions about veterinary medicine?

Question

im currently a highschool student. i've been job shadowing at a vet clinic for a year, and am really interested in it. when i get into college i was thinking of going to become a vet tech though instead of a vet, and then see where i wanna go from there.

1)how long would becoming a vet tech take?
2)does this sound like a decent plan or would it be way better to go straight into becoming an actual vet?
3)how much do veterinarian technicians make compared to veterinarians?

Answer 1

Rewarding SOME days, but NEVER in the SALARY department!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 2

I am currently in school to become a vet tech. I feel like its such a rewarding field, but not as much pressure as a vet! :)
I am not sure how it works where you are, but in NC it is not necessary to have schooling to become a vet tech. There are some places that will provide training, however, pay will not be as good. Here in NC I had to get my Associate in Science degree and then transfer to a school that offered a vet tech program. That program lasts 2 years. And it is my understanding that you dont work with real animals until your last semester. I could be wrong on that.
As far as becoming a vet. You are looking at 4 years college and 4 years vet school PLUS internship. It really depends on what you would want to do.
When it comes to salary you can probably expect between 28,000 and 30,000 starting off (once again...this depends on where you are). you will not make as much as a vet. A vet will start anyway from 50,000 to 65,000. Again...depends on where you are :)
Either way you are looking at an EXTREMELY rewarding career. I hope you enjoy it! Good Luck!!
Oh, If you are in the Colorado area you could look at going to the Bel-Rea institute for vet technicians. Thats what they specialize in and look like a great school. They advertise on Animal Planet