Veterinary Can you help with direction of application?

[Mr.Smile12]

---

Members don't see this ad.

Hello,
I'm new to this forum - traditional male applicant, and interested in veterinary surgery. I have shadowed/worked for a few vet surgeons, and shadowed general practice small animal vet and equine veterinarians. I am interested in surgery and being involved with teaching, but am wondering if this is what to emphasize in my application, or is that too specialized? I know you can also do surgery in general veterinary practice, which also appeals to me.
- I have approximately 1000 hours in research, veterinary experience and animal experience - in each category. Mostly small animals, though. So, should I just come right out with it and state how excited I am about the possibility of becoming a veterinary surgeon? Or does that sound too 'surgery or bust'.
-my follow- up questions is - is it better to do a research paper or add more vet/animal experience before applying?
-also my GPA -is 3.8 and I have not taken the GRE yet.

Thank you

Good luck with the GRE. Hopefully it's not going to be a problem for you. I would check with your veterinarian that you would use as a reference for feedback. I don't think too many people get that hung up on saying you are interested in surgery as long as you convey you are open-minded and respect other expertise and skills you would need to be a good veterinarian. Your school selection may be important if going towards surgery requires you to have some exposure to research, but do what you can to learn more about that career specialty. Most people applying to vet school would have small-animal observation or experience, so I wouldn't worry so much about that.

 

[dyachei]

It's probably best to keep an open mind about what you will be doing if/when you become a vet. Many people that go into school with one career track in mind often change during school. Most schools also know this. While I don't think it will hurt your application, I certainly wouldn't emphasize your interest a lot or only focus on that aspect.

Getting more veterinary experience will often help your application (and give you more insight into the field). However, research is also a good addition. I'd say do whatever interests you more

good luck!