2 answers
Mary Hope
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
2
Questions
Updated
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What are the best ways to get the required volunteer and veterinary exprience hours you need in your undergraduate years before going to veterinary school?
I am a high school senior who will be attending the University of South Carolina in the fall with a biology major. I have little worries about getting classroom hours, I am more concerned with what i need to do outside of the classroom to get in to vet school. I know that it is very competitive and required a lot of volunteer work as well as shadowing vet clinics. I just want to know good methods and strategies from people who got in to vet school mainly because of their experience hours because this would certainly help out weight my lack of interview skills.
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2 answers
Charlotte Geiger
Public Health Science Student at the University of Maryland
150
Answers
Sykesville, Maryland
Updated
Charlotte’s Answer
Hi Mary Hope,
Gaining the required volunteer and veterinary experience hours for veterinary school can seem overwhelming, but starting early and being strategic will make a big difference. As you begin your undergraduate journey at the University of South Carolina as a biology major, focus on building hands-on experience in both clinical and non-clinical settings. Start by volunteering at local animal shelters or rescues to gain experience working with animals in a non-clinical environment. Positions like animal care assistant or dog walker are relatively easy to get and help you develop skills in animal handling and care. Additionally, look for opportunities at wildlife rehabilitation centers or local farms to gain experience with a variety of animal species, including large animals, which are highly valued by vet schools. To secure clinical experience, start by shadowing veterinarians at general practice clinics, as they are often more open to beginners than specialty practices. Approach local clinics professionally, either by calling ahead or visiting in person with a brief introduction and a resume that highlights your passion for veterinary medicine. Following up respectfully if you don’t hear back shows dedication. Over time, try to diversify your experiences by shadowing vets in different fields, such as equine, exotic, or emergency care. By steadily building your volunteer and clinical experience throughout your undergraduate years, you’ll strengthen your vet school application and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Gaining the required volunteer and veterinary experience hours for veterinary school can seem overwhelming, but starting early and being strategic will make a big difference. As you begin your undergraduate journey at the University of South Carolina as a biology major, focus on building hands-on experience in both clinical and non-clinical settings. Start by volunteering at local animal shelters or rescues to gain experience working with animals in a non-clinical environment. Positions like animal care assistant or dog walker are relatively easy to get and help you develop skills in animal handling and care. Additionally, look for opportunities at wildlife rehabilitation centers or local farms to gain experience with a variety of animal species, including large animals, which are highly valued by vet schools. To secure clinical experience, start by shadowing veterinarians at general practice clinics, as they are often more open to beginners than specialty practices. Approach local clinics professionally, either by calling ahead or visiting in person with a brief introduction and a resume that highlights your passion for veterinary medicine. Following up respectfully if you don’t hear back shows dedication. Over time, try to diversify your experiences by shadowing vets in different fields, such as equine, exotic, or emergency care. By steadily building your volunteer and clinical experience throughout your undergraduate years, you’ll strengthen your vet school application and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Kylie Panter
Veterinary Assistant
1
Answer
Harrisonburg, Virginia
Updated
Kylie’s Answer
Hi Mary! As a Pre-Vet student planning to apply to Vet school this fall, here are some steps you can take to boost your application:
1. Shadow a variety of Vets (small animals, exotics, livestock, shelters, relief, etc). This will give you broad experience and insight into different veterinary fields.
2. Get involved in research with professors. This experience will not only enhance your resume but also improve your communication skills, which are crucial for a successful veterinary career.
3. Apply for internships and aim to secure a Veterinary Assistant position or a related role over the summer. Hands-on experience is invaluable.
4. Volunteer with organizations outside of animal care. Choose something you’re passionate about to help differentiate yourself from other applicants.
Good luck!
1. Shadow a variety of Vets (small animals, exotics, livestock, shelters, relief, etc). This will give you broad experience and insight into different veterinary fields.
2. Get involved in research with professors. This experience will not only enhance your resume but also improve your communication skills, which are crucial for a successful veterinary career.
3. Apply for internships and aim to secure a Veterinary Assistant position or a related role over the summer. Hands-on experience is invaluable.
4. Volunteer with organizations outside of animal care. Choose something you’re passionate about to help differentiate yourself from other applicants.
Good luck!