1. I know you need to buy all the textbooks - do you need them for most of the classes? Or do you get most of the information in lectures?
You sure don't need to buy all the textbooks. That's totally false. I don't buy textbooks, at all. Only if I'm fascinated by the subject and will keep the book forever. We have a very good library if you need to read a particular section of a book for whatever reason.
2. What is the teaching style of NCSU? Is it all lecture based? Do you do study groups? Or do you have case based studies?
All three. Mostly lecture but more and more of the others.
3. When do you start with live animals? Do you get to work in the hospital? How hands on is NCSU?
Very hands on. I am the last class on the old curriculum but you're handling and learning with animals since your first semester. You can work in the hospital in many ways, though it's not an official part of the curriculum until 4th year. I worked as an emergency surgical technician for several years. Others work in the wards or in specific services. Students are always welcome in the hospital.
4. Do you get most of the lectures online?
You can, but I preferred to attend. It's less efficient but more human, and I felt staying home was disrespectful to the lecturers.
5. Did any of you participate in the VMP 999 – Extramural Experiences – Veterinary International Programs? Or knows any more information about it?
Yep, I did a selective (2-week elective course) in Agra, India. It was great. We have faculty at the vet school who specifically have an international medicine focus, and while you do have to get the paperwork done to do things abroad, there is funding available to apply for, and it's not difficult to arrange everything.
It is just very hard to say no to Cornell, because it has the bigger name. I know that is not an issue in the states, but I will be very possibly practicing in Europe and the name plays the role. Plus of course I am nervous about starting in a new state, new school..don't know anything and anyone. But that is really all that is holding me back. I loved Raleigh and I find NCSU staff (and students!) much friendlier.
Actually, NCSU has quite a good name as well. Our teaching hospital is very busy and that reputation alone is helpful when seeking employment post-grad (whether internship or general employment). We have a very international faculty so finding advisors (formal or informal) from Europe is extremely easy to do.
I also struggled with the decision between Cornell and NC State. In the end, I decided that I wasn't willing to pay $200k for a name. Buried in this forum somewhere is my very first post where I was angsting about many of the same things you're writing here. I have been perfectly happy with my decision. I also remember talking to current students at Cornell who straight up told me that the school's name was absolutely worth $200k to them. If that's the case for you, then go for it.
I am an out-of-state student as well, and starting fresh is a great opportunity. If nothing else, it broadens your pool of contacts in the profession and exposes you to further opportunities. Academic inbreeding is a thing.
One more question - how difficult is it to find a place in a research lab. I know that during a semester it might be tough timewise, but how about summers? Research is what I want to focus on as my professional path and I am not sure how that differs from regular, let's say small animal, curriculum.
Not hard. It is actively encouraged. NC State has the most tracks ("focus areas") to choose from than any other school, IIRC. Our classes are very diverse in terms of makeup and interests. People interested in small animal GP are in the minority in my class.
I am an older student as well, I HATE working in groups, I can't stand people and that is why I am in love with research...But I know that vet school (and vet profession in general) is a big team work so I have no illusions and I am ready for that. But you are right, I didn't look at it that way. I like PBL, I like the concept a lot, but I overlooked the group factor completely.
You know that there are people in research, right? Vet med is a very people-oriented profession, no matter what. Even if you're strongly introverted, you gotta learn how to play nice. Group work isn't most peoples' dream scenario, but nearly all of the people in vet school are smart and hardworking, so it's not so hard to do. It's so much better working with competent people.
I like PBL and I think it would have been a useful learning method for me. But again...to the tune of $200k? Nope.
I am also an older student and was concerned about going into vet school with a bunch of people younger than me. In the end it's completely a non-issue. There are lots of older students and the general maturity level is pretty even across the board. Age is a non-issue. I have classmates eight years younger than me who are easily as mature or more mature than I am. I also have classmates my age who are very immature. We're all going through the same thing together and it really, really doesn't matter.
I may be biased because I love it here and don't regret my decision to attend at all. But from everything you've written, it sounds like NC State would be a great fit for you. I'm sorry you had a lackluster tour. The NC State admissions office has an account here and they'd be more than happy to help you with info you need. Also, feel free to PM me if you'd like. I hope this is helpful.
