Hello all,
I just got accepted into MSU's CVM program, and while I'm ecstatic, it's really all sort of daunting. I know the average IS debt at graduation is about 180K. In light of that, does anyone know about job placements rates at the different CVM's, I've been looking for them but they're not exactly fourth telling on their websites. In addition, does anyone know about the job market for veterinarians in the midwest, Michigan specifically, but the midwest if not. If anyone does have experience, what sort of salaries are the norm for a GP DVM in this area?
It depends on the area in Michigan. Overall, Michigan's SA clinic pricing can be pretty outrageous when compared to other states, yet all but one of the vets I know do let me know that they do struggle financially. I'm not sure why, but Ohio's veterinary care is apparently dirt cheap compared to Michigan. I live close to the border and plenty of locals make the drive once a year to save (or if there's a surgery needed, they definitely make the drive).
Google tells me the salary range for a Michigan sample was $50k-$120k. Again, you need to know what area you'd end up in to estimate. Rural SA vets, or city vets on the poor sides of town (does Michigan have any towns with money? Really, do we?) I could see making the low end or even a bit less. That $120k has got to be either a specialist, someone at the school, or industry.
I'd say it doesn't matter what school you go to, your job placement won't change much based on that alone. Nobody really says "Oh, you went to Michigan? You beat out this other applicant because of your school." You can leave the state for a job or go across the country if you need to. You won't die and it doesn't have to be permanent. Take some time to act like you are searching for your first job in Michigan and see how many places are hiring, and where. It will all be completely different in four years, but hopefully you can get an idea of the demand in the state right now. I've never seen job placement rates for any of the schools other than the "__% went into practice, __% started a residency, etc." breakdown.
Edit: I also want to add that I haven't been accepted anywhere yet, but being 3/3 for interviews freaks me out just as much! It is a lot of money and it isn't an easy decision, no matter what school you choose! The best advice I can pass on is to borrow smart, and use your borrowed money wisely. It sounds like common sense, but don't borrow it unless you need to. Same person who gave me that advice then followed with, "I used loan money to buy $3000 worth of aquariums to better house/increase my reptile collection. I didn't need to do that, although I do use them to this day...."
