Freyamaxine, can you tell us a little more about the program at Massey? I'm thinking of applying there this year and would definitely like more firsthand information on things like what classes are like, what the teaching style is and etc.
Thanks!
I'll bite
🙂
First, here are a few references to get anyone interested in Massey started:
There are some really good lecturers, and there are some lecturers who simply read off their powerpoints. I have a feeling this is similar to most vet schools.
😳 Lecturers are generally very approachable and happy to help. Your grades tend to be based on end-of-the-term essay tests, especially in the first two years. There are labs associated with most classes. There is one problem-based learning class, the rest are traditional. You are generally not stuck in one classroom all day, they move you around campus a bit, especially in the first two years, which is nice. You get a little bit of hands on animal handling the first semester, and first do vetty stuff like practice physical exams the second semester of second year, and do really vetty stuff like anesthetize animals your third year.
Massey is not a rich, research powerhouse. The emphasis is on teaching people to be vets. If you feel unfulfilled when not surrounded by the latest toys, this program is probably not for you. The good thing about Massey is that there are not tons of residents and interns competing with vet students for procedures or for access to boarded specialists. Also, facilities and clients are probably closer to those in the average US veterinary practice vs. those at US teaching hospitals.
Um, what else can I say? Palmerston North can be kinda boring in a suburban way, but has most everything you need. It's easy to travel throughout New Zealand, and, to a lesser extent, Australia. The rest of the world is very far away! New Zealand is much more Americanized than I had expected: it seems more akin to Canada than the UK, if that makes any sense. There is a bit of anti-American, anti-foreigner sentiment -- and stronger anti-Asian sentiment, which is something to be aware of if you are Asian-American -- in the culture at large. On a face-to-face basis, people will generally give you a chance, though.
You don't necessarily need a car to live here, although most people do have one by second year. Buses to Massey and around town are free. It's a pretty easy town to bicycle in, mostly flat. Weather is a slightly colder version of the Pacific Northwest.
OK, I'll stop, now that I've written a book
😀
HTH,
Laura