older - determined & scared

[thomphea]

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I've seen other posts with similiar concerns...but here's my data. I am 28, graduating this May. My gpa will be in the area of 2.8 - 3.0. I have lived on my own and supported myself since I was 16 years old. I have always had to work full time to survive, hence the low gpa. I have also always taken a full course load of classes each semester once I decided to go back to school. I am still proud because I have paid for everything on my own. Do vet schools truly look at this? I work at an amazing 24 hour emergency animal hospital with "famous" doctors and I have a large amount of experience. I am taking the gre's this summer. My biggest concern is my gpa. I see these posts with amazing gpa's like 3.94 and mine is no where near that caliber.
I have several schools in mind to apply to...but I'm looking for a little guidance from people who know what I am going though as an older applicant with struggles.
suggested schools?
tips?
enouragement?
I honestly get sick to my stomach every time I think about applying.😱

 

[cyrille104]

take a look at this thread:

http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=381635

 

[lilobug]

Thomphea, I think you have a fighting chance. The truth is anyone who has the time to put into school can get good grades and vet schools relize that. They no doubt look at GPA, but they also look at the GRE score, your application, and who you are as a person. Both my GRE score and GPA are average, but I was accepted to 2 schools (WSU and MSU) and have been waitlisted at two others (KSU and ISU). WSU only takes 10 out of state students so I was rather suprized when I got in. When I was there for my interview they told me they are looking for people who have "heart" and can stay on their feet when the world gets turned upside down. I wrote about all my life experiences in my application (they give plenty of room for that) everything that, although embarrassing, made me a stronger person.

I would say to not be too discouraged by your low GPA because you have something that is unique (supporting yourself since16!) and that will make you stand out and also your experience. Recommendation letters are a huge part as well. I think you will at least get interviews.

Don't loose hope!!!!👍

 

[thomphea]

Thanks for the boost. Sometimes I just get so discouraged when I see that stats of 3.8 gpa's. The one thing I do have is heart and determination!
I think that if I can at least get my foot in the door with an interview, I can prove that I do belong in vet school.
Thanks again!

 

[ShelterGirl]

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[ShelterGirl]

Make sure to rock the GRE. Even though some people question its validity as an indicator of your academic capability, some schools will "forgive" a lower GPA if you do really well on the GRE.

I also think that your personal statement is very important. It is your chance to highlight your non-academic strengths (maturity, determination, etc.)

Good luck!

 

[thomphea]

That's my big last chance. I'm taking it this summer. I have several books & study materials to help me out.
There's just no way I can afford the $1000 for a prep course. I feel confident I can do well.... I dont really have a choice!

 

[sundoggie]

I was in a similar position as you. I am 28 and I also had a lower GPA because I was supporting myself full time while in school. This is not all that unusual, so the admissions committee know how to take that into consideration. I did very well on the GRE, and that helped...but I also have a graduate degree. I think that helped a lot. Anyway, I would suggest you try, but keep a back-up plan in place...preferably one that could help you in the long run if you continue trying to apply...ie a graduate degree or working with a veterinarian. Good luck! Don't be scared! Just go for what you really want.