Non-Traditional Vet School Applicants c/o 2025

[Cassafrass]

The motley crew.

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[max_wildlife]

OMG STOP RIGHT NOW. THAT IS MY FAVORITE PLACE TO GO DO WORK. I can get a beer or cocktail, and sit there with my work for HOURS (or at least I have a few drinks then get horrible ADHD). They've been closed due to Covid so I haven't been since last spring 😭

Edited to add: Also your dog is super cute, is he a typical dramatic husky 😂

OMG that's crazy what a small world!! I loved it soo much! there's nothing like it in WNY. I was there in like 2015 haha so it's been a while for sure but it was my favorite place to escape to. I'm glad to know it's still up and running!

And thank you!! 😁 yes he is a typical dramatic husky lol he loves to sing about everything. he's very popular and is friends with almost all of the dogs on the street. he has an 8'oclock pm tantrum scheduled every night (even though we walk about 5+ miles per day and he eats plenty. he just likes to yell once in a while). he once ate an entire bag of apples. and his favorite hobby is shredding paper.

 

[max_wildlife]

The motley crew.

aww! adorable

 

[Cassafrass]

aww! adorable

Thanks we have 4 fish as well and there’s usually a horse involved...this is low maintenance lol

 

[ElizaThornberry]

Ok...I know the thread says non-trad applicants c/o 2025 & I am still 1-2 years out from applying but I still wanted to comment. I am non-trad ,however-26 years old, first generation student and just took my last final yesterday.This means I will finally have my B.S. in biological sciences after 7 years!! I really just wanted to post because I was reading the comments and @max_wildlife ngl....I am a bit intimidated by your experiences....kind of jealous. The ultimate goal is to become a certified veterinary microbiologist when all is said and done. I am passionate about animals and love learning about pathogens, zoonotic diseases and parasites so I am looking to combine the two. @max_wildlife that is why what you said sounds very intriguing to me. What you described is right up my alley! I really want to learn how to diagnose infectious diseases in animals and look under microscopes all day. It sounds like I should seek a job at a veterinary diagnostic lab...? I am kind of just looking to get my foot into the door in that area....I only have a tad bit of micro research experience but I really want to get into that area somehow and start learning and diagnosing zoonoses!

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

OMG that's crazy what a small world!! I loved it soo much! there's nothing like it in WNY. I was there in like 2015 haha so it's been a while for sure but it was my favorite place to escape to. I'm glad to know it's still up and running!

And thank you!! 😁 yes he is a typical dramatic husky lol he loves to sing about everything. he's very popular and is friends with almost all of the dogs on the street. he has an 8'oclock pm tantrum scheduled every night (even though we walk about 5+ miles per day and he eats plenty. he just likes to yell once in a while). he once ate an entire bag of apples. and his favorite hobby is shredding paper.

Right!? I don't know anyone who likes it as much as I do 😂

Also - a whole bag of apples what was the aftermath of that? I can't decide if it would cause awful GI symptoms or his body would be like "thanks for the fruit!" Last weekend one of my cases was a husky who had eaten rocks. Lots of rocks. Luckily they were in the colon so we just put him on some fluids and manually extracted the biggest one (not under sedation, just a little bup) - taking rads and placing the catheter was fun though, especially because my first one burred so I had to stick him twice... so dramatic

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

The motley crew.

Ah I love them! They look so snug and ready for the holidays!

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

Ok...I know the thread says non-trad applicants c/o 2025 & I am still 1-2 years out from applying but I still wanted to comment. I am non-trad ,however-26 years old, first generation student and just took my last final yesterday.This means I will finally have my B.S. in biological sciences after 7 years!! I really just wanted to post because I was reading the comments and @max_wildlife ngl....I am a bit intimidated by your experiences....kind of jealous. The ultimate goal is to become a certified veterinary microbiologist when all is said and done. I am passionate about animals and love learning about pathogens, zoonotic diseases and parasites so I am looking to combine the two. @max_wildlife that is why what you said sounds very intriguing to me. What you described is right up my alley! I really want to learn how to diagnose infectious diseases in animals and look under microscopes all day. It sounds like I should seek a job at a veterinary diagnostic lab...? I am kind of just looking to get my foot into the door in that area....I only have a tad bit of micro research experience but I really want to get into that area somehow and start learning and diagnosing zoonoses!

Hi 👋 It sounds like a pathology related career would be right up your alley. Maybe @max_wildlife can speak more to how they got their opportunities. I just wanted to throw in my two cents as I was employed at my state's diagnostic lab during undergrad as it was a part of my university so they employed a lot of students. I also know companies like IDEXX and Antech do have internships/externships and job opportunities as well. I would just start reaching out to different labs, even if you have to start at the bottom cleaning (that's what I did) eventually you'll move up to making slides, helping run tests and reading blood tests, smears, etc. I would try to google search things in your area or reach out to your professors/advisors and see if they have any contacts too!

 

[max_wildlife]

Hi 👋 It sounds like a pathology related career would be right up your alley. Maybe @max_wildlife can speak more to how he got his opportunities. I just wanted to throw in my two cents as I was employed at my state's diagnostic lab during undergrad as it was a part of my university so they employed a lot of students. I also know companies like IDEXX and Antech do have internships/externships and job opportunities as well. I would just start reaching out to different labs, even if you have to start at the bottom cleaning (that's what I did) eventually you'll move up to making slides, helping run tests and reading blood tests, smears, etc. I would try to google search things in your area or reach out to your professors/advisors and see if they have any contacts too!

I'm a girl hahaha max has been my nickname since i played ice hockey 😂 max afinogenov was my favorite player on the Sabres in middle school so I had his jersey

 

[max_wildlife]

Right!? I don't know anyone who likes it as much as I do 😂

Also - a whole bag of apples what was the aftermath of that? I can't decide if it would cause awful GI symptoms or his body would be like "thanks for the fruit!" Last weekend one of my cases was a husky who had eaten rocks. Lots of rocks. Luckily they were in the colon so we just put him on some fluids and manually extracted the biggest one (not under sedation, just a little bup) - taking rads and placing the catheter was fun though, especially because my first one burred so I had to stick him twice... so dramatic

He was fine! lol sorry for all the separate replies the formatting on my phone has everything messed up. He ate them through a grocery bag in the car. I just called the vet i work with and was like 'doc what do i do I'm on the thruway' lmao and thankfully everything went through normally

 

[max_wildlife]

Ok...I know the thread says non-trad applicants c/o 2025 & I am still 1-2 years out from applying but I still wanted to comment. I am non-trad ,however-26 years old, first generation student and just took my last final yesterday.This means I will finally have my B.S. in biological sciences after 7 years!! I really just wanted to post because I was reading the comments and @max_wildlife ngl....I am a bit intimidated by your experiences....kind of jealous. The ultimate goal is to become a certified veterinary microbiologist when all is said and done. I am passionate about animals and love learning about pathogens, zoonotic diseases and parasites so I am looking to combine the two. @max_wildlife that is why what you said sounds very intriguing to me. What you described is right up my alley! I really want to learn how to diagnose infectious diseases in animals and look under microscopes all day. It sounds like I should seek a job at a veterinary diagnostic lab...? I am kind of just looking to get my foot into the door in that area....I only have a tad bit of micro research experience but I really want to get into that area somehow and start learning and diagnosing zoonoses!

Hey congratulations! I want to put more thought into this but if you can shadow at a lab that may be a good place to start. Work environment matters so make sure you mesh with your supervisor if you want to learn.

but ahh don't be intimidated lol i just followed a whim when I was 20 and haven't stopped. That said I'm very afraid of all procedures involving cats so we all have our secrets 😅

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

I'm a girl hahaha max has been my nickname since i played ice hockey 😂 max afinogenov was my favorite player on the Sabres in middle school so I had his jersey

OMG I'm so sorry 😂 This is why you don't assume on the internet!

 

[max_wildlife]

OMG I'm so sorry 😂 This is why you don't assume on the internet!

that's okay!! It's not the first time it's happened lol i resemble my younger male cousin and we got mixed up a bunch growing up back when I had short hair 😂 needless to say my hair is long now 😅

 

[max_wildlife]

Hey congratulations! I want to put more thought into this but if you can shadow at a lab that may be a good place to start. Work environment matters so make sure you mesh with your supervisor if you want to learn.

but ahh don't be intimidated lol i just followed a whim when I was 20 and haven't stopped. That said I'm very afraid of all procedures involving cats so we all have our secrets 😅

Ok...I know the thread says non-trad applicants c/o 2025 & I am still 1-2 years out from applying but I still wanted to comment. I am non-trad ,however-26 years old, first generation student and just took my last final yesterday.This means I will finally have my B.S. in biological sciences after 7 years!! I really just wanted to post because I was reading the comments and @max_wildlife ngl....I am a bit intimidated by your experiences....kind of jealous. The ultimate goal is to become a certified veterinary microbiologist when all is said and done. I am passionate about animals and love learning about pathogens, zoonotic diseases and parasites so I am looking to combine the two. @max_wildlife that is why what you said sounds very intriguing to me. What you described is right up my alley! I really want to learn how to diagnose infectious diseases in animals and look under microscopes all day. It sounds like I should seek a job at a veterinary diagnostic lab...? I am kind of just looking to get my foot into the door in that area....I only have a tad bit of micro research experience but I really want to get into that area somehow and start learning and diagnosing zoonoses!

also to be honest in terms of getting wildlife experience if you are also looking for that, the most helpful thing for me was befriending a wildlife veterinarian and literally following her around like Marty McFly/Luke Skywalker/whatever annoying film apprentice you can think of for the past eight years. I make light of it but some days I suspect I owe her my career.

I found the opportunity through just volunteering at a local wildlife center, eventually got a job there, and moved on to help her at her home clinic once I started grad school and couldn't keep the commitment at the facility. We didn't do as much diagnostic work but we still ran fecals and lead tests and took radiographs (we had a lot of critters with gunshot wounds etc) so I would also look into local wildlife rehab facilities - particularly wildlife hospitals and see if you can volunteer. Just be sure they have a veterinarian either onsite or that they collaborate with because some facilities can unfortunately be sketchy 😕

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

that's okay!! It's not the first time it's happened lol i resemble my younger male cousin and we got mixed up a bunch growing up back when I had short hair 😂 needless to say my hair is long now 😅

Still embarrassing 😂 that's really funny about your cousin. I have a twin sister so I was always mixed up with her... but nothing like being mixed up with someone of a different sex!

 

[max_wildlife]

Still embarrassing 😂 that's really funny about your cousin. I have a twin sister so I was always mixed up with her... but nothing like being mixed up with someone of a different sex!

To make matters worse he was 12 and I was 17-18 during the time of the most frequent mixups 😂 he also lived with me and we were around the same height at the time so it's probably a little more understandable in context

 

[TabbyCat2]

My husband is career military as well! And he rolled his GI Bill to me to pay for vet school (such a blessing). If your husband does the same and you need help with anything GI Bill related, message me!

Omg!! I will message you later today about this. I have so many questions and have not been able to get any definitive answers from anyone about how to transfer the GI bill. Even the guys my husband works with don’t know.

 

[Cassafrass]

Ah I love them! They look so snug and ready for the holidays!

That's their own personal tree lol we have 2 for this reason

 

[Cassafrass]

also to be honest in terms of getting wildlife experience if you are also looking for that, the most helpful thing for me was befriending a wildlife veterinarian and literally following her around like Marty McFly/Luke Skywalker/whatever annoying film apprentice you can think of for the past eight years. I make light of it but some days I suspect I owe her my career.

I found the opportunity through just volunteering at a local wildlife center, eventually got a job there, and moved on to help her at her home clinic once I started grad school and couldn't keep the commitment at the facility. We didn't do as much diagnostic work but we still ran fecals and lead tests and took radiographs (we had a lot of critters with gunshot wounds etc) so I would also look into local wildlife rehab facilities - particularly wildlife hospitals and see if you can volunteer. Just be sure they have a veterinarian either onsite or that they collaborate with because some facilities can unfortunately be sketchy 😕

That's funny about being afraid of cats...I speak fluent cat, they just make sense to me. My "secret dream" is large cat specialist lol

 

[cutepotato3]

The vets you work with are correct - GPA is a factor (especially when determining a "cutoff" but many schools are moving to a holistic approach, so they evaluate your whole application and experiences.

Where are you a LA tech at? I was an entry level temp tech over the summer at Charles River... aka I just cleaned mice cages and isolators all day. It was a great learning experience but not one I'm sure I'd repeat. I'd love to hear about some other aspects of working with lab animals besides just cleaning!

Id like to call us "glorified janitors" haha. I work for an institution. I started out with working with rodents (rats and mice) caging cages and inspecting them for abnormalities/sickness then reporting it to the vet staff for treatment. After a while I got to take care of the bigger/exotic animals (macaques, spiny mice, alligators, rabbits, swine, chickens, geckos, axotyls, dogs). Most of it is cleaning and monitoring their environment, however I have also learned handling techniques and symptoms and picked up on the usual treatments by observing the vet/vet techs. Other than cleaning I maintain inventory, have been able to contribute enrichment ideas, have been able to experience training newbies, and overall learned what it takes to maintain the whole facility. Definitely gained perspective and appreciation for everyone as it takes the hard workpeople to keep the facility running!

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

Id like to call us "glorified janitors" haha. I work for an institution. I started out with working with rodents (rats and mice) caging cages and inspecting them for abnormalities/sickness then reporting it to the vet staff for treatment. After a while I got to take care of the bigger/exotic animals (macaques, spiny mice, alligators, rabbits, swine, chickens, geckos, axotyls, dogs). Most of it is cleaning and monitoring their environment, however I have also learned handling techniques and symptoms and picked up on the usual treatments by observing the vet/vet techs. Other than cleaning I maintain inventory, have been able to contribute enrichment ideas, have been able to experience training newbies, and overall learned what it takes to maintain the whole facility. Definitely gained perspective and appreciation for everyone as it takes the hard workpeople to keep the facility running!

That's so cool, I'd love to work with larger animals as I only did rodents! I totally agree that it helps you gain an appreciation for everyone that works in that field, everyone is important and integral to the care of animals!

 

[EB73674]

So great to see this thread up! I've been lurking around SDN for about 4 years now, I applied last year but only received rejections and an unsuccessful waitlist, so I'm hoping this might be my year. I'm 32 as of two days ago, and my original B.A. was in international relations. I worked in politics for about a year and a half after graduating in 2011, but my first job didn't work out long-term and I ended up taking jobs as a dog trainer & barn hand when I moved back in with my parents. I thought I wanted to go back into politics/nonprofit/international aid work, but having about 3-4 years of an animal career combined with a well-timed conversation with my mother pushed me into applying for a pre-vet post-bacc program, which then was followed by getting a job as a veterinary assistant in a small animal hospital. Even if my path to vet school doesn't work out eventually, I am absolutely planning to stay in vet-med forever. I love the intellectual challenge and I love the animal-helping aspect and, surprisingly, I really like the client interaction piece.

On the more personal side, I'm super-duper single, member of the LGBTQ community, and currently living with my parents until I leave for vet school (whenever that is). I share an 11-year-old Black Lab named Lila (my profile picture!) with my parents, and we get along pretty well as a happy lil family of 4. I can't really speak to the challenges/rigors of being married or a parent in vet school, but going back to school with kiddos 10 years my junior has been very informative! We bring unique perspective to this field as older entrants, to be sure!

 

[max_wildlife]

That's funny about being afraid of cats...I speak fluent cat, they just make sense to me. My "secret dream" is large cat specialist lol

that's awesome. My dad had serious cat scratch fever when I was very young and it stayed with me. I'm not afraid of getting bitten or scratched per se - just afraid of the consequences of it. I took a shelter job for about a year where I worked with like 70% cats maybe to try to get over it and like...nope lol. Proficient at handling, sure but my stress levels never went down 😅 i like cats from a distance, like I'd have maaaaybe have a pet cat; and love big cats and everything. But yeah..feline practice isn't really for me.

If you ever get a job with big cats though I definitely want to hear all about it. I bet that would be incredible.

 

[thankdog]

That's funny about being afraid of cats...I speak fluent cat, they just make sense to me. My "secret dream" is large cat specialist lol

LOL! Can we please start this specialty? Except I want it to involve both large cats and ancient dogs haha. Speaking of large cats... here are my three boys (all >12 pounds). My white cat, Lou, had a chondroblastic osteosarcoma on his right scapula a little over a year ago so we amputated his front right leg and he’s doing great.

 

[Cassafrass]

that's awesome. My dad had serious cat scratch fever when I was very young and it stayed with me. I'm not afraid of getting bitten or scratched per se - just afraid of the consequences of it. I took a shelter job for about a year where I worked with like 70% cats maybe to try to get over it and like...nope lol. Proficient at handling, sure but my stress levels never went down 😅 i like cats from a distance, like I'd have maaaaybe have a pet cat; and love big cats and everything. But yeah..feline practice isn't really for me.

If you ever get a job with big cats though I definitely want to hear all about it. I bet that would be incredible.

Have you seen Secret Life of the Zoo? They focus on breeding endangered species...the idea makes me so happy lol

 

[Cassafrass]

LOL! Can we please start this specialty? Except I want it to involve both large cats and ancient dogs haha. Speaking of large cats... here are my three boys (all >12 pounds). My white cat, Lou, had a chondroblastic osteosarcoma on his right scapula a little over a year ago so we amputated his front right leg and he’s doing great.

I'm so glad he's doing well! My middle "child" got diagnosed with lymphoma like 2 weeks ago....we're just going to let him cat as long as possible...Leukeran is just too expensive for us at this time. I am struggling with that--I hate knowing I could do more and I'm not...but he's not the kind of cat who would tolerate being pilled daily or blood draws weekly...so...we're letting him have his cat life. He's happy and acting totally well right now...so we roll with it.

 

[thankdog]

Have you seen Secret Life of the Zoo? They focus on breeding endangered species...the idea makes me so happy lol

LOL I THOUGHT YOU MEANT LARGE HOUSE CATS... my brain doesn’t work after finals

 

[Cassafrass]

LOL I THOUGHT YOU MEANT LARGE HOUSE CATS... my brain doesn’t work after finals

hahahaha large house cats are amazing. I love them all. I am suchhhh a cat person lol

 

[thankdog]

I'm so glad he's doing well! My middle "child" got diagnosed with lymphoma like 2 weeks ago....we're just going to let him cat as long as possible...Leukeran is just too expensive for us at this time. I am struggling with that--I hate knowing I could do more and I'm not...but he's not the kind of cat who would tolerate being pilled daily or blood draws weekly...so...we're letting him have his cat life. He's happy and acting totally well right now...so we roll with it.

Oh no I’m so sorry to hear that! But I think your plan is perfectly reasonable! There’s absolutely nothing wrong with going the palliative care route. That’s another “specialty” I’m interested in. Just give him the good pain drugs when he needs them and all the kitty junk food he wants.

 

[Cassafrass]

that's awesome. My dad had serious cat scratch fever when I was very young and it stayed with me. I'm not afraid of getting bitten or scratched per se - just afraid of the consequences of it. I took a shelter job for about a year where I worked with like 70% cats maybe to try to get over it and like...nope lol. Proficient at handling, sure but my stress levels never went down 😅 i like cats from a distance, like I'd have maaaaybe have a pet cat; and love big cats and everything. But yeah..feline practice isn't really for me.

If you ever get a job with big cats though I definitely want to hear all about it. I bet that would be incredible.

I'm sorry about your dad..that's scary...we had a kitten come in with fe-bart and the vet insisted on pulling ALL of it's teeth. The tested every cat who came through the door. It was sort of crazy.

 

[vetsquared]

Yay so happy we got this going! 2020 has been a really rough year for me and I’ve been feeling super isolated, like I’m the only older student applying, and I’m so glad to know you guys are out there!

I’d call myself semi-non-traditional because I’ve taken a roundabout path to get here. Long story short, I always wanted to be a vet, but needed a way to pay for school, so I went to college and got my BS in Animal Science on an Army scholarship. After I graduated I spent four years on active duty. Unfortunately my grades from undergrad were less than stellar, so I’ve spent the last two years retaking all my prerequisites! First time applicant this year! I want to go into ECC, so I see myself definitely doing an internship +/- residency. I work swings and overnights as an assistant in the ER at a big referral hospital which has been great experience.

On a personal note, I’m 28 now and will be 33 when I graduate vet school. I’ve never had any doubts that I want to do this, but recent events in my life have just completely crushed my enthusiasm and made me question all my decisions. I was married (and legally still am but the divorce is pending) for six years, but back in June my husband left me for one of my best friends who was even in our wedding. I was totally blindsided and had no idea this was going on. I never worried about going to school later in life, but now I worry I’ll be too old to get married or have a family after I’ve graduated. I guess I just don’t really know how to reconcile the differences between what I want personally and professionally, and how to not feel like I’ve traded one for the other? Idk if any of you guys have the same kinds of concerns and how you deal with them?

 

[Cassafrass]

Oh no I’m so sorry to hear that! But I think your plan is perfectly reasonable! There’s absolutely nothing wrong with going the palliative care route. That’s another “specialty” I’m interested in. Just give him the good pain drugs when he needs them and all the kitty junk food he wants.

Best boy in the whole world.

 

[Cassafrass]

Yay so happy we got this going! 2020 has been a really rough year for me and I’ve been feeling super isolated, like I’m the only older student applying, and I’m so glad to know you guys are out there!

I’d call myself semi-non-traditional because I’ve taken a roundabout path to get here. Long story short, I always wanted to be a vet, but needed a way to pay for school, so I went to college and got my BS in Animal Science on an Army scholarship. After I graduated I spent four years on active duty. Unfortunately my grades from undergrad were less than stellar, so I’ve spent the last two years retaking all my prerequisites! First time applicant this year! I want to go into ECC, so I see myself definitely doing an internship +/- residency. I work swings and overnights as an assistant in the ER at a big referral hospital which has been great experience.

On a personal note, I’m 28 now and will be 33 when I graduate vet school. I’ve never had any doubts that I want to do this, but recent events in my life have just completely crushed my enthusiasm and made me question all my decisions. I was married (and legally still am but the divorce is pending) for six years, but back in June my husband left me for one of my best friends who was even in our wedding. I was totally blindsided and had no idea this was going on. I never worried about going to school later in life, but now I worry I’ll be too old to get married or have a family after I’ve graduated. I guess I just don’t really know how to reconcile the differences between what I want personally and professionally, and how to not feel like I’ve traded one for the other? Idk if any of you guys have the same kinds of concerns and how you deal with them?

Feel free to pm me any time--i'm 37 and I've been on/am on the separated moving towards divorce train. He hasn't left me but he may as well have. I'm sorry you're going through this. It says everything about him and nothing about you. And you can have everything you desire in your life, it's your birthright to have a joyful, full-filled life. It's out there for you, it's awaiting transfer to you. All you have to do is believe it and claim it--and you're clearly taking the steps necessary to make it happen. We're here!!

 

[thankdog]

Yay so happy we got this going! 2020 has been a really rough year for me and I’ve been feeling super isolated, like I’m the only older student applying, and I’m so glad to know you guys are out there!

I’d call myself semi-non-traditional because I’ve taken a roundabout path to get here. Long story short, I always wanted to be a vet, but needed a way to pay for school, so I went to college and got my BS in Animal Science on an Army scholarship. After I graduated I spent four years on active duty. Unfortunately my grades from undergrad were less than stellar, so I’ve spent the last two years retaking all my prerequisites! First time applicant this year! I want to go into ECC, so I see myself definitely doing an internship +/- residency. I work swings and overnights as an assistant in the ER at a big referral hospital which has been great experience.

On a personal note, I’m 28 now and will be 33 when I graduate vet school. I’ve never had any doubts that I want to do this, but recent events in my life have just completely crushed my enthusiasm and made me question all my decisions. I was married (and legally still am but the divorce is pending) for six years, but back in June my husband left me for one of my best friends who was even in our wedding. I was totally blindsided and had no idea this was going on. I never worried about going to school later in life, but now I worry I’ll be too old to get married or have a family after I’ve graduated. I guess I just don’t really know how to reconcile the differences between what I want personally and professionally, and how to not feel like I’ve traded one for the other? Idk if any of you guys have the same kinds of concerns and how you deal with them?

Please know that you’re absolutely not alone in this. Your journey has been courageous, and I think life has a lot of great things in store for you. Also, you definitely won’t be too old to find love and get married. Life has a way of working out. If you ever want to talk to a fellow mature applicant please feel free to PM me anytime. There’s a community of us on here looking to support one another

 

[ElizaThornberry]

Hi 👋 It sounds like a pathology related career would be right up your alley. Maybe @max_wildlife can speak more to how he got his opportunities. I just wanted to throw in my two cents as I was employed at my state's diagnostic lab during undergrad as it was a part of my university so they employed a lot of students. I also know companies like IDEXX and Antech do have internships/externships and job opportunities as well. I would just start reaching out to different labs, even if you have to start at the bottom cleaning (that's what I did) eventually you'll move up to making slides, helping run tests and reading blood tests, smears, etc. I would try to google search things in your area or reach out to your professors/advisors and see if they have any contacts too!

Thanks for the advice, It is appreciated!! Like others have stated, I also can't help but feel behind due to my age.

 

[KCgophervet]

Yay so happy we got this going! 2020 has been a really rough year for me and I’ve been feeling super isolated, like I’m the only older student applying, and I’m so glad to know you guys are out there!

I’d call myself semi-non-traditional because I’ve taken a roundabout path to get here. Long story short, I always wanted to be a vet, but needed a way to pay for school, so I went to college and got my BS in Animal Science on an Army scholarship. After I graduated I spent four years on active duty. Unfortunately my grades from undergrad were less than stellar, so I’ve spent the last two years retaking all my prerequisites! First time applicant this year! I want to go into ECC, so I see myself definitely doing an internship +/- residency. I work swings and overnights as an assistant in the ER at a big referral hospital which has been great experience.

On a personal note, I’m 28 now and will be 33 when I graduate vet school. I’ve never had any doubts that I want to do this, but recent events in my life have just completely crushed my enthusiasm and made me question all my decisions. I was married (and legally still am but the divorce is pending) for six years, but back in June my husband left me for one of my best friends who was even in our wedding. I was totally blindsided and had no idea this was going on. I never worried about going to school later in life, but now I worry I’ll be too old to get married or have a family after I’ve graduated. I guess I just don’t really know how to reconcile the differences between what I want personally and professionally, and how to not feel like I’ve traded one for the other? Idk if any of you guys have the same kinds of concerns and how you deal with them?

Just chiming in to say that life doesn't stop during vet school, you can still have a life, meet people, date, etc and so on (and to everyone applying please please continue living your lives during vet school - it's important for your mental health and well being!). I have quite a few classmates who met people during vet school (or even in vet school) who are now married/engaged/having kids. So your personal and professional life goals don't have to be in conflict

 

[brownswissfanatic]

Nice to know that I am not the only older applicant. I felt so old and thought I would be the only one in the class who would start at age 28 lol. This is actually my 4th application cycle, and I was recently accepted by Midwestern (still waiting to hear back from 16 schools before making my final decision). So I am super excited to finally be able to pursue my dreams.

I graduated undergrad in 2015 with a B.S. in Animal Science, B.A. in French Studies, and a minor in Chemistry. After undergrad I did an internship with a non-profit relief agency run by my church called ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency) in Madagascar for 10 months, where I advised locals on animal welfare concerns.
Then I pursued my Masters in Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology (graduated 2018). Also, I got married in 2018 (no kids until after vet school. I want a couple of my own, and I would love to adopt as well).
Currently, I am working full-time at Texas A&M's small animal Hospital in the Clinical Microbiology lab.

I also have felt that I was behind others since my undergraduate classmates are now working as veterinarians, but looking back I would not regret my journey at all. This time has allowed me to grow and ensure that I am mentally and physically ready for vet school.

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

Nice to know that I am not the only older applicant. I felt so old and thought I would be the only one in the class who would start at age 28 lol. This is actually my 4th application cycle, and I was recently accepted by Midwestern (still waiting to hear back from 16 schools before making my final decision). So I am super excited to finally be able to pursue my dreams.

I graduated undergrad in 2015 with a B.S. in Animal Science, B.A. in French Studies, and a minor in Chemistry. After undergrad I did an internship with a non-profit relief agency run by my church called ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency) in Madagascar for 10 months, where I advised locals on animal welfare concerns.
Then I pursued my Masters in Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology (graduated 2018). Also, I got married in 2018 (no kids until after vet school. I want a couple of my own, and I would love to adopt as well).
Currently, I am working full-time at Texas A&M's small animal Hospital in the Clinical Microbiology lab.

I also have felt that I was behind others since my undergraduate classmates are now working as veterinarians, but looking back I would not regret my journey at all. This time has allowed me to grow and ensure that I am mentally and physically ready for vet school.

Wow you have some great experience! I feel like your journey is 100% going to help you get into school this cycle! I'm a big fan of public health and epi... if I'm not accepted this cycle I'm debating doing a Masters in VPH or Lab animal med!

 

[cutepotato3]

Does anyone what types of jobs you can get with a MS in lab animal medicine? I was looking at potential jobs and none of the requirements are MS in lab animal science so I was wondering if it was just a waste of time/money

 

[brownswissfanatic]

Wow you have some great experience! I feel like your journey is 100% going to help you get into school this cycle! I'm a big fan of public health and epi... if I'm not accepted this cycle I'm debating doing a Masters in VPH or Lab animal med!

Thanks! Yes, I've already been accepted into Midwestern! I love their program, but still waiting to see if any other doors open up.

I actually want to become a public health veterinarian. But focus on more the aspect of sustainability of a population and French speaking developing countries. My dream job would be to work at the CDC one day (I actually heard that they need French speaking Veterinarians) and work as a disease detective to assist in preventing and controlling future pandemics.

If you are unfortunately not accepted this cycle and want info on Texas A&M's VPHE Masters that I completed, I will be happy to answer any questions for you! There are both thesis and non-thesis options available to pursue.

 

[max_wildlife]

Does anyone what types of jobs you can get with a MS in lab animal medicine? I was looking at potential jobs and none of the requirements are MS in lab animal science so I was wondering if it was just a waste of time/money

I'm not sure. Have you looked at the AALAS site? Otherwise I think it may benefit you in some field laboratory positions - I can think of one at least. buuut they don't necessarily pay well. Can't speak for indoor laboratory positions. 😕

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

Thanks! Yes, I've already been accepted into Midwestern! I love their program, but still waiting to see if any other doors open up.

I actually want to become a public health veterinarian. But focus on more the aspect of sustainability of a population and French speaking developing countries. My dream job would be to work at the CDC one day (I actually heard that they need French speaking Veterinarians) and work as a disease detective to assist in preventing and controlling future pandemics.

If I was to go into public health, I'd want to work for the CDC too! Goals!

If you are unfortunately not accepted this cycle and want info on Texas A&M's VPHE Masters that I completed, I will be happy to answer any questions for you! There are both thesis and non-thesis options available to pursue.

I'll let you know after this cycle. Hopefully I won't need more info on it 😂

 

[PolliePocket]

Wow! So glad to see so many older applicants! I'm 35 and a first-time applicant! I applied to 14 schools in an effort to increase my chances. Dropped out of college back in 04, and so I'm overcoming some poor grades from that. I'm a true career changer because I've been in the car business for 8 years, while working on my BS in Bio for the last two and a half. In retrospect, I think my disjointed path has really helped me grow, as a person, and I think the people skills I have gained in the auto industry will really help me as a doc. I hope the schools I applied to agree lol

 

[max_wildlife]

On a personal note, I’m 28 now and will be 33 when I graduate vet school. I’ve never had any doubts that I want to do this, but recent events in my life have just completely crushed my enthusiasm and made me question all my decisions. I was married (and legally still am but the divorce is pending) for six years, but back in June my husband left me for one of my best friends who was even in our wedding. I was totally blindsided and had no idea this was going on. I never worried about going to school later in life, but now I worry I’ll be too old to get married or have a family after I’ve graduated. I guess I just don’t really know how to reconcile the differences between what I want personally and professionally, and how to not feel like I’ve traded one for the other? Idk if any of you guys have the same kinds of concerns and how you deal with them?

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I don't want to betray this person's privacy, but I do know someone who went through something very similar and she turned out okay. the life she built after leaving the old one turned out to be beautiful.

Though I haven't been through that, I do have similar concerns for the future. I've only been in one serious relationship in my life, and I hesitate to call it serious - I was with one guy from high school through college Since that break up, I've dated a bit. but between grad school, tech school, and moving around for field seasons in between, nothing ever stuck - and to be honest, my fear of commitment doesn't help. I'm hoping to meet more like-minded people in vet school, whenever I do get there. I try to think I'm far more likely to meet people that mesh with me pursuing a path that I love than sitting back and accepting a career that I feel stifles me.

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

On a personal note, I’m 28 now and will be 33 when I graduate vet school. I’ve never had any doubts that I want to do this, but recent events in my life have just completely crushed my enthusiasm and made me question all my decisions. I was married (and legally still am but the divorce is pending) for six years, but back in June my husband left me for one of my best friends who was even in our wedding. I was totally blindsided and had no idea this was going on. I never worried about going to school later in life, but now I worry I’ll be too old to get married or have a family after I’ve graduated. I guess I just don’t really know how to reconcile the differences between what I want personally and professionally, and how to not feel like I’ve traded one for the other? Idk if any of you guys have the same kinds of concerns and how you deal with them?

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I know that feeling of being torn between having a personal life and a professional life. First off, I totally agree with Max - up to this point I've had some good relationships but nothing "forever" worthy. I think that we're more likely to meet people we really connect with that have similar passions to us in this field. I've found that it is very hard for many people to empathize with what we go through in this industry, which can lead to problems in a relationship (just generalizing, I know lots of people have SOs and spouses in other fields, this is just from my personal experience!).

However, at this point, I've decided to just focus on my career and my relationship with myself. I feel that I won't be able to be happy with someone else until I am happy with myself and where I am in life. I gave up an almost 4-year relationship that everyone thought was going to end in marriage to go back to school. It completely blindsided everyone, including our friends and family. He wasn't a bad person, its just that I was motivated to grow and change while he was complacent to stay where he was forever. Additionally, he wasn't supportive of my decision to go back to school and would get upset when I'd choose schoolwork over spending time with him. I felt like he was holding me back, so I let him go. I don't think I would have been able to get the experiences I have if I had remained in that relationship. I have never for a second regretted my decision.

I'm one of those people who will ALWAYS put my work before a partner or family. This 100% isn't healthy, but I've always been this way, ever since my first job when I was 17. Currently I am not looking to date and am not open to a relationship because I know I am not capable of being able to nurture a career and a relationship at the same time. I've never been good at finding that balance. Hopefully I'll be surprised and I'll meet someone wonderful, however my pessimistic views on relationships and love are telling me this probably won't happen. I know my views are very different than many people here, I've said it before - I have so much respect for people who can have a family and do this. I just unfortunately don't have a desire to do this at this current time, at least not until I'm happy with myself.

 

[EB73674]

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I don't want to betray this person's privacy, but I do know someone who went through something very similar and she turned out okay. the life she built after leaving the old one turned out to be beautiful.

Though I haven't been through that, I do have similar concerns for the future. I've only been in one serious relationship in my life, and I hesitate to call it serious - I was with one guy from high school through college Since that break up, I've dated a bit. but between grad school, tech school, and moving around for field seasons in between, nothing ever stuck - and to be honest, my fear of commitment doesn't help. I'm hoping to meet more like-minded people in vet school, whenever I do get there. I try to think I'm far more likely to meet people that mesh with me pursuing a path that I love than sitting back and accepting a career that I feel stifles me.

Right there with you, Max. Haven't been in any kind of serious relationship since college, and unfortunately that one was fairly toxic and emotionally manipulative. Don't date people who haven't worked on their own major issues (or think they make them interesting/edgy) just because they're funny and smart, guys...Dated someone consistently for a bit last year, but the chemistry wasn't quite there. It did make me feel a little less undesirable, though, so that was good!

It does make me concerned about the "ticking clock," so to speak. I don't currently have any real plans to have bio kids, but I would like to have the option when and if I do meet the right person. I know adoption is always an option, as is a life filled with fur-kids only, but you don't always know what you had til it's gone, y'know? I also remain a little insecure about not REALLY having had a life or true career before now. Yeah, I'll hopefully have one in 4-5 years, but most folks my age who graduate vet school are quite a bit more established. Anybody else feel like they've just been spinning their wheels for the last few years?

 

[max_wildlife]

Right there with you, Max. Haven't been in any kind of serious relationship since college, and unfortunately that one was fairly toxic and emotionally manipulative. Don't date people who haven't worked on their own major issues (or think they make them interesting/edgy) just because they're funny and smart, guys...Dated someone consistently for a bit last year, but the chemistry wasn't quite there. It did make me feel a little less undesirable, though, so that was good!

It does make me concerned about the "ticking clock," so to speak. I don't currently have any real plans to have bio kids, but I would like to have the option when and if I do meet the right person. I know adoption is always an option, as is a life filled with fur-kids only, but you don't always know what you had til it's gone, y'know? I also remain a little insecure about not REALLY having had a life or true career before now. Yeah, I'll hopefully have one in 4-5 years, but most folks my age who graduate vet school are quite a bit more established. Anybody else feel like they've just been spinning their wheels for the last few years?

YEP. similar. he ended up reaching out and apologizing a year ago. he was a bright kid, both similar to me and not. but in fact it was that he was passionate about his line of work - social justice stuff - and I became so passionate about working with wildlife that we could no longer relate to one another. it became toxic real quick.

I think that's exactly it though - I don't know what I've got til it's gone. I love that I've traveled as much as I have buuut there are just a couple fellas I met along the way and can't help but think, 'all right, what if I'd put in just a tiny bit more effort'. I get the catastrophic 'ah man, what if I die alone' kinda thought every so often... and then I snap myself out of it somehow through sports or guitar - like real-world here-and-now hobbies - and get back to life. i try to tell myself there's no use worrying about it, at least not yet.

 

[Cassafrass]

I'm so sorry you're going through this. I know that feeling of being torn between having a personal life and a professional life. First off, I totally agree with Max - up to this point I've had some good relationships but nothing "forever" worthy. I think that we're more likely to meet people we really connect with that have similar passions to us in this field. I've found that it is very hard for many people to empathize with what we go through in this industry, which can lead to problems in a relationship (just generalizing, I know lots of people have SOs and spouses in other fields, this is just from my personal experience!).

However, at this point, I've decided to just focus on my career and my relationship with myself. I feel that I won't be able to be happy with someone else until I am happy with myself and where I am in life. I gave up an almost 4-year relationship that everyone thought was going to end in marriage to go back to school. It completely blindsided everyone, including our friends and family. He wasn't a bad person, its just that I was motivated to grow and change while he was complacent to stay where he was forever. Additionally, he wasn't supportive of my decision to go back to school and would get upset when I'd choose schoolwork over spending time with him. I felt like he was holding me back, so I let him go. I don't think I would have been able to get the experiences I have if I had remained in that relationship. I have never for a second regretted my decision.

I'm one of those people who will ALWAYS put my work before a partner or family. This 100% isn't healthy, but I've always been this way, ever since my first job when I was 17. Currently I am not looking to date and am not open to a relationship because I know I am not capable of being able to nurture a career and a relationship at the same time. I've never been good at finding that balance. Hopefully I'll be surprised and I'll meet someone wonderful, however my pessimistic views on relationships and love are telling me this probably won't happen. I know my views are very different than many people here, I've said it before - I have so much respect for people who can have a family and do this. I just unfortunately don't have a desire to do this at this current time, at least not until I'm happy with myself.

Your self-awareness will serve you well, but if you know you "Always" put your work before partner and family, you may want to consider doing a deep dive into why. That's a defense mechanism and ultra self-reliance is a trauma response. I'm not judging you or assuming anything--I don't know you from Eve or Adam, but I will tell you that that wound/tick/mechanism will follow you until you stop and confront it head on. I'm still digging thru my stuff after a lifetime of therapy, meditation, yoga, EMDR and other stuff...it's like a full-time job all on its own lol. We are here for you and if you ever want to talk any of it thru, I'm all ears. You deserve to have that love and support in your life if you want it, and given your commitment to personal growth, maybe you'll find what you need to help you be more flexible about that over time. There's nothing wrong with knowing what you want and what you're willing to exchange for it--the right partner won't hold you back.

 

[MixedAnimals77]

For everyone feeling life and school conflict I just really want to reiterate what @KCgophervet said. They don't have to be divergent-it's a balance. My friend was in a long distance relationship and they broke up, she took some time for herself, but she dates while in school. Several of us got married. People even have kids-4 in our class alone in the last 2.5 years. The most incredible couple I think were a few years ahead of me. They both got accepted into vet school in the same class but they had 2 kids while in vet school/just coming into and then did 4th year with super young kids on top of that. Not saying it will be easy-heck finding the right person is hard in itself. You will have time if you make it. Life definitely doesn't stop unless you let it.

 

[sheepcowdoghorse23]

Your self-awareness will serve you well, but if you know you "Always" put your work before partner and family, you may want to consider doing a deep dive into why. That's a defense mechanism and ultra self-reliance is a trauma response. I'm not judging you or assuming anything--I don't know you from Eve or Adam, but I will tell you that that wound/tick/mechanism will follow you until you stop and confront it head on. I'm still digging thru my stuff after a lifetime of therapy, meditation, yoga, EMDR and other stuff...it's like a full-time job all on its own lol. We are here for you and if you ever want to talk any of it thru, I'm all ears. You deserve to have that love and support in your life if you want it, and given your commitment to personal growth, maybe you'll find what you need to help you be more flexible about that over time. There's nothing wrong with knowing what you want and what you're willing to exchange for it--the right partner won't hold you back.

Thank you! I appreciate it! I think once I'm in school and more settled I might feel differently. The last few years have been a crazy whirlwind and I've had no time, even for myself. I feel like I'm open to the right person, but they'd have to be an extremely right person, not just any person. I'm totally okay with being single for now, I want to be able to give the people in my life the time they deserve. I'm definitely optimistic for the future though. It'll happen when I'm ready!