Making a career choice is an important and difficult decision. Making the decision to become an veterinarian requires a commitment of time and money. It is important that you evaluate what the career entails. You should answer the following and other questions on becoming and being a veterinarian:
What is it like to be a veterinarian?
Do you have the perseverance to complete 4 years of undergraduate training and 4 years of veterinary school?
Once you decide you want to go to veterinary school, you have more decisions to make on how to get there. You will enroll in an undergraduate program (which can be any major, it does not have to be a science). In addition to satisfying your degree requirements, you will also have to take the required pre-veterinary medicine curriculum. You must decide to take your coursework seriously, from the first semester of your freshman year. You must participate in other activities that make you a better candidate for veterinary school, such as working with a veterinarian, philanthropic activities, and holding office in clubs/organizations. You will be competing with many outstanding students, and you must stand out among the crowd to be accepted.
If and when you decide to go to veterinary school, find a good resource for information on the requirements and deadlines. Be organized! Start thinking about how you can finance your education. Decide to which veterinary schools you will apply. Decision-making factors include geographical location, tuition, requirements for admission, curriculum, and faculty.
There is help available. Speak with your pre-health advisor and other faculty members. Speak with veterinarians.
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