Successful Applicants C/O 2029

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indysadventures said:
This is so amazing! I’m still waiting on a few decisions/deciding; but UMN is at the top of my list, would be honored to be classmates come this fall! Congratulations!!!!!
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Thank you so much! I have seen you throughout the forum and would love the chance to be classmates with you!! Congratulations to you as well for your multiple acceptances! You deserve it! <3
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Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied: 21, Female, California/USA, traditional, first time applicant

Applied: Colorado State, Cornell, Ohio State, Oregon State, RVC, Tufts, Dublin, Edinburgh, Davis, Virginia-Maryland, Wisconsin, Western
Interview Invites: RVC, Edinburgh, Western
Accepted: Oregon State, RVC 5-year, Tufts, Dublin, Edinburgh 4-year, Western
Waitlisted: Colorado, Wisconsin
Attending: Tufts!

Overall GPA: 3.85
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.83
Last 45 GPA: ~3.97

GRE (Q/V/W): N/A

Degree(s): B.S. of Animal Science in progress

Veterinary Experience:
Volunteer at a shelter (spay/neuter) - 6 hours
Vet Assist (cat clinic) - 1300 hours
Vet Assist (GP dog and cat) - 275 hours
Shadow shelter vet - 4 hours

Animal Experience:
Helped birth some goats - 6 hours
Pigeon sitter - 8 hours
Feline boarding technician - 300 hours
Feline boarding technician (at a different place) - 204 hours
Intern at an animal shelter (covid started and cut it short) - 6 hours

Research:
N/A

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Dancer on the University Dance Team - 300 hours
Makeup Artist for Theater Club - 40 hours
Dean's List - 3 semesters

Non-Animal Employment:
Dance Teacher - 104 hours
Math Tutor - 66

LORs:
Veterinarian - mentor who has known me since I was born. I worked for her for a few years, part-time
Veterinarian - current employer and owner of a feline only vet clinic
Veterinarian/Professor - I took three class with her
Professor/Advisor - professor I have worked with as her TA

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Wrote about how my love for veterinary medicine has endured the test of time and difficulties of the profession. The common thread tying the story together was about my childhood cat who had severe renal failure for 5 years and recently passed away.
 
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Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

21, F, Michigan/USA, traditional, 1st time applicant

Applied: University of Minnesota, University of Illinois, The Ohio State University, Michigan State University, Louisiana State University, Tufts University, Cornell University
Interview Invites: University of Minnesota, The Ohio State University, University of Illinois
Waitlisted: Cornell University, Louisiana State University, Tufts University
Rejected: Michigan State University
Accepted: University of Minnesota, The Ohio State University, University of Illinois
Attending: The Ohio State University!!!

Overall GPA: 3.95
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.93
Last 45 GPA: 3.93

Degree(s): Bachelor of Animal Science (Pre-Veterinary Emphasis), Minor in Chemistry, Minor in Biology + Honors Program Student

Veterinary Experience:
  • Wildlife medicine internship - 300 hours
  • Exotic animal medicine internship - 64 hours
  • ER veterinary receptionist/assistant - 300 hours
  • Job shadow at a small animal GP - 179 hours
  • Job shadow at a feline exclusive GP - 66 hours
  • Job shadow at a small animal GP (surgery focused) - 54 hours
  • Job shadow at an exotics GP - 54 hours
  • Food animal handling class - 32 hours
  • Equine handling class - 32 hours
Animal Experience:
  • Dog walking/sitting - hundreds of hours
  • Barn duty - 30 hours
  • Secondary handler for service dog training - 30 hours
  • IHSA Western JV Rider - 100 hours
Research:
  • Chytridiomycosis in amphibian populations (fieldwork + lab) - 120 hours
  • Novel RNA viruses in the American dog tick (fieldwork + lit review + thesis) - 200 hours
  • Honors thesis written about RNA extraction protocols for ixodid ticks
Extracurriculars:
  • Plant Club Founder/President - 30 hours
  • Herpetology Club Secretary - 48 hours
  • Pre-Veterinary Club Member - 15 hours
  • Honors Student Association Member - 7 hours
  • Gay-Straight Alliance Club Member - 30 hours
  • Tri-Beta Member - 10 hours
  • Variety Cross Country Runner/Captain - 1020 hours
  • Hobbies = plant keeping, embroidery, sewing, gardening, rock hounding, fishing, bird watching, writing, and reading
Awards:
  • Dean's List x 7
  • Phi Kappa Phi membership
  • Freshman Writing Award
  • Various awards from high school cross country team
  • Various CollegeBoard AP exam awards
Non-Animal Employment:
  • Student Organic Chemistry Tutor - 128 hours
  • Content Tutor - 192 hours
LORs:
  • Genetics professor/research advisor
  • Anatomy and physiology professor/former research advisor/academic advisor
  • Small animal veterinarian I shadowed
  • Exotic animal veterinarian I interned under
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Personal Statement: I discussed how, as a kid, I had wanted to become a veterinarian solely because I loved animals and didn't want to work with people. The bulk of my PS explored experiences that dismantled that idea and how helping people became my biggest passion. I discussed an experience I had working in ER where a couple brought in their pet that had passed away while they were on vacation and how I was able to deeply connect with them because I had lost my childhood cat in the exact same way. I emphasized my desire to build relationships with clients and to involve them in their pet's treatment by taking time to explain the *why* behind diagnoses/treatments.

DEI: I wrote about my identity in the LGBTQ+ community and how becoming involved with my college's GSA allowed me to connect with other like-minded people after growing up in a household that suppressed self-exploration. I emphasized by commitment to joining VOICE or Broad Spectrum in veterinary school. I also discussed notable experiences I had with low-income clients when working at the ER, how that left an impact on me, and my hope to continue working with urban/underserved communities.

Tufts Essay: The whole premise was writing about your passion outside of vet med/animals/science. I was starting to lose my mind over essays at this point and decided to write about how much I adore YouTube video essays - I'm talkin' Wendigoon, hbomberguy, Folding Ideas, etc. I am obsessed with watching 1+ hour long videos on random topics like plagiarism, human evolution, flat-earth debunking, lost media, and Disney movie analyses. I discussed how this speaks to my curiosity about the niche corners of our world and my commitment to being a life-long learner.

Minnesota and Cornell Essays: rehabbing a litter of mice, various high-stress ER cases I worked on, troubling experience with a veterinarian who profiled a client, how my love for sewing ties into suturing, my role as a tutor, failing my first organic chemistry II exam, how study groups helped me retain information, my self-care habits, etc.

I'm so thrilled I get to post here. After my first decision of the cycle being a hard rejection from my IS, I lost a lot of hope. If I couldn't even get an interview with my IS, how could I possibly stand out in much bigger OOS pools? I eventually realized that only thinking in numbers is not the way to go. This experience has shown me that it truly does only take one 'yes'. Even if you think you bombed your interview, you still have a chance. I want to give a huge thanks to the people on here that edited my PS, or that gave me any advice at all. It's relieving to know that I am not alone in the stress and tears of this process. I am a high GPA applicant, but I always knew that if I didn't have *quality* experiences and good essays that it would not pull me through. Start that club you're passionate about, apply for that interesting internship, and remember to make time for yourself.

If anyone in the future reads this, I am more than happy to read over essays, answer questions, or give advice <3 SDN helped me immensely and I would love to give back to future applicants!
 
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catsandsnakes said:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

21, F, Michigan/USA, traditional, 1st time applicant

Applied: University of Minnesota, University of Illinois, The Ohio State University, Michigan State University, Louisiana State University, Tufts University, Cornell University
Interview Invites: University of Minnesota, The Ohio State University, University of Illinois
Waiting to hear: Tufts University, The Ohio State University, University of Illinois
Waitlisted: Cornell University, Louisiana State University
Rejected: Michigan State University
Accepted: University of Minnesota
Attending: TBD!

Overall GPA: 3.95
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.93
Last 45 GPA: 3.93

Degree(s): Bachelor of Animal Science (Pre-Veterinary Emphasis), Minor in Chemistry, Minor in Biology + Honors Program Student

Veterinary Experience:
  • Wildlife medicine internship - 300 hours
  • Exotic animal medicine internship - 64 hours
  • ER veterinary receptionist/assistant - 300 hours
  • Job shadow at a small animal GP - 179 hours
  • Job shadow at a feline exclusive GP - 66 hours
  • Job shadow at a small animal GP (surgery focused) - 54 hours
  • Job shadow at an exotics GP - 54 hours
  • Food animal handling class - 32 hours
  • Equine handling class - 32 hours
Animal Experience:
  • Dog walking/sitting - hundreds of hours
  • Barn duty - 30 hours
  • Secondary handler for service dog training - 30 hours
  • IHSA Western JV Rider - 100 hours
Research:
  • Chytridiomycosis in amphibian populations (fieldwork + lab) - 120 hours
  • Novel RNA viruses in the American dog tick (fieldwork + lab) - 200 hours
  • Honors thesis written about RNA extraction protocols for ixodid ticks
Extracurriculars:
  • Plant Club Founder/President - 30 hours
  • Herpetology Club Secretary - 48 hours
  • Pre-Veterinary Club Member - 15 hours
  • Honors Student Association Member - 7 hours
  • Gay-Straight Alliance Club Member - 30 hours
  • Tri-Beta Member - 10 hours
  • Variety Cross Country Runner/Captain - 1020 hours
  • Hobbies = plant keeping, gardening, rock hounding, fishing, bird watching, and writing
Awards:
  • Dean's List x 7
  • Phi Kappa Phi membership
  • Freshman Writing Award
  • Various awards from high school cross country team
  • Various CollegeBoard AP exam awards
Non-Animal Employment:
  • Student Organic Chemistry Tutor - 128 hours
  • Content Tutor - 192 hours
LORs:
  • Genetics professor/research advisor
  • Anatomy and physiology professor/former research advisor/academic advisor
  • Small animal veterinarian I shadowed
  • Exotic animal veterinarian I interned under
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Personal Statement: I discussed how I had wanted to become a veterinarian solely because I loved animals and didn't think I had to work with people. The bulk of my PS explored my experiences that dismantled that idea and how helping people became my biggest passion. I discussed an experience I had working in ER where a couple brought in their pet that had passed away while they were on vacation and how I was able to deeply connect with them because I had lost my childhood cat in the exact same way. I emphasized my desire to build relationships with clients and to involve them in their pet's treatment by taking time to explain the *why* behind diagnoses/treatments.

DEI: I wrote about my identity in the LGBTQ+ community and how becoming involved with my college's GSA allowed me to connect with other like-minded people after growing up in a household that suppressed self-exploration. I emphasized by commitment to joining VOICE or Broad Spectrum in veterinary school. I also discussed notable experiences I had with low-income clients when working at the ER, how that left an impact on me, and my hope to continue working with urban communities.

Tufts Essay: will update if I get in or waitlisted, my essay was over a very random topic and idk if it was the best lol

Minnesota and Cornell Essays: rehabbing a litter of mice, high-stress ER case I worked with, how my love for sewing ties into my suturing, my role as a tutor, failing my first organic chemistry II exam

I'm so thrilled I get to post here. After my first decision of the cycle being a hard rejection from my IS, I lost a lot of hope. If I couldn't even get an interview with my IS, how could I possibly stand out in much bigger OOS pools?? I eventually realized that only thinking in numbers is not the way to go. This experience has shown me that it truly does only take one 'yes'. Even if you think you bombed your interview, you still have a chance. I want to give a huge thanks to the people on here that edited my PS, or that gave me any advice at all. It's relieving to know that I am not alone in the stress and tears of this process. I am a high GPA applicant, but I always knew that if I didn't have *quality* experiences and good essays that it would not pull me through. Start that club you're passionate about, apply for that interesting internship, and remember to make time for yourself.

If anyone in the future reads this, I am more than happy to read over essays, answer questions, or give advice <3 SDN helped me immensely and I would love to give back to future applicants!
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Yayyyy congrats!!! I’ve seen you in so many threads and I’ve been rooting for you 💕💕💕
 
gobears2022 said:
Yayyyy congrats!!! I’ve seen you in so many threads and I’ve been rooting for you 💕💕💕
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Thank you so much!!! I absolutely love seeing people active in multiple threads get their good news. So happy for your acceptance as well, we did it!!!!! 🫶🫶
 
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

23, Female, Ohio, traditional applicant, second cycle.
Applied: Ohio State, Midwestern, Missouri, Kansas State, Mississippi State, and Auburn
Interview Invites: Ohio State, Kansas state, and Mississippi State
Waiting to hear: Mississippi State
Accepted: Kansas State, Midwestern.
Waitlisted: Ohio State
Attending: TBD probably Kansas State!!!!

Overall GPA: 3.56
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.51
Last 45 GPA: 3.9

Degree(s): Bachelors in Animal Science at the University of Kentucky

Veterinary Experience:
Lisbon Veterinary Clinic (large animal) - 600 hours
Lexington Equine medical group (Equine reproduction) - 56 hours
Haygard Equine Medical Institute (Equine sports medicine) - 30 hours.
Chevy Chase Animal Clinic (small animal) - 3515 hours
Mahoning Valley Veterinary Clinic (small animal) - 1290 hours
Animal Care Clinic (small animal + small exotics) - 319 hours
Town and Country Vet (small animal) - 32 hours

Animal Experience:
Experience - (hrs)
UK sheep unit - 45 hours
Byers Brother farm and stock - 102 hours
UK beef cattle unit - 80 hours

Research:
University of Kentuckys division of laboratory animal resources - 105 hours

Extracurriculars:
UK women's club basketball
Pi Beta Phi sorority
Pre-veterinarian club
High school varsity basketball
Danceblue
National Honors Society
Beta Club

Awards:
Deans list X4
Cum Laude
Wayland Rhoads memorial scholarship
Kentucky Promise Scholarship
WAG award
Aubrey Dohar Memorial Scholarship
Third team all-district division woman's basketball
Medical Mutual Scholarship
Fear Free certified

Non-Animal Employment:
Knightline screenprint and embroidery - 240 hours
The Lake Club - 600 hours
Dairy Queen shift leader - 2750 hours


LORs:
Animal Breeding and Genetics professor
Lead DVM and owner of practice.
Hospital manager.
Two small animal DVM's

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I wrote about how I always wanted to work with animal but it wasn't until I got my first job at a small animal clinic where I realized my passion for veterinary medicine. I mentioned how seeing the effect of properly diagnosing and treating animals is on both the animals and the owners and I knew that was something I wanted to be apart of. I also wrote about how the veterinary field is as much as a human field as it is an animal field and that the connections made with people has strengthened my desire for veterinary medicine.
 
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:
21, Female, Texas, Traditional, 1st application


Applied:
Texas Tech, Texas A&M, Louisiana State, North Carolina State (waitlisted admission), UC Davis, Ohio State, Purdue, University of Missouri, University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, Royal Veterinary College, University of Glasgow, University of Edinburgh, University of Liverpool, and UC Dublin
(15 total)
Interview Invites:
University of Glasgow, University of Edinburgh, Royal Veterinary College, University of Liverpool, University of Minnesota and Ohio State University.
Waiting to hear:
University of Edinburgh
Accepted:
University of Glasgow (5 yr), University of Liverpool (5 yr), University of Minnesota, Ohio State University, University of Wisconsin-Madison, University College Dublin (4 yr) and Royal Veterinary College (5 yr) and (Waitlisted at NC State)
Attending:
Not sure yet eeek! Great choices, it will be a tough decision.

Overall GPA: 3.90 with grade replacement (~3.78 without I believe)
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.8
Last 45 GPA: 4.0

Casper: 4th quartile

Degree(s): Graduating May 2025, B.S in Biomedical Science

Veterinary Experience: Total~260 ish
30 hrs low cost spay/neuter clinic (more now after my application)
71 hrs non-human primate veterinary care shadowing and learning
120 small animal/exotic shadowing (underestimated but its okay)
12 hrs aquarium veterinarian shadowing
~50 hrs of various semi-random experiences

Animal Experience: Total~1135
315 hrs Wildlife rescue / bird and mammal care taker
160 hrs assisting on family ranch with cows and goats
560 hrs zoo/aquarium care taker and educator
*also like ~100 hours at various small animal volunteer places like shelters*

Research: Total~500 ish
120 hrs environmental chemistry lab
44 hrs genomics laboratory volunteering
248 hrs non-human primate research
60 hrs Hispanic Serving Institution academic retention research (ongoing)
30 hrs Dolphin population field research

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Community orchestra member and violinist 250+ hrs at least
- Concerto Competition Winner
Honors Program Member with many many many volunteer hours at salvation army and other organizations
Student Government Association representative, College of Science senator meeting with Dean monthly
Pre-Veterinary Society member, officer, and now president
Dance team
Alpha Gamma Delta sorority member
Deans list every semester from fall 2023-present
Gulf Scholars Program Member and scholarship recipient
High school biology class teacher assistant
Well recognized choir member
(honestly a million other minor extracurriculars as well)


Non-Animal Employment:
320 hrs Scuba diver at aquarium, marine mammal department so sort of animal-ish
240 hrs Swim school assistant
120 hrs Environmental chemistry researcher as mentioned previously

LORs:
College of Science Dean at my University
Senior Professor of Voice and Opera I studied with during college
Non-Human Primate Behaviorist
Lab animal Medicine Veterinarian
Shelter Medicine Veterinarian and Professor
Biological Anthropologist/Scientist and Director of Behavior department
(having strong LOR also helped me a ton I think)



Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
In my essay, I talked about how my experiences in laboratory animal medicine, wildlife rescue, and the emotional impact of my dog's illness have shaped my passion for veterinary medicine, and helped develop my commitment to both animal care and compassionate support for owners. Because of my low veterinary supervised hours, I really worked hard in this essay to explain my commitment to veterinary medicine and why it is truly the path for me, not just something I am interested in short term.



*a lot of this is from memory so all information may have minor errors when it comes to # of hours, but this is very close to what I submitted on my application*

*Although I am a traditional applicant, having less than 300 veterinary supervised hours is rare and I think and it was the weakest point of my application. I was able to successfully make up for it though my diverse experiences but it was difficult. The biggest thing I learned was apply to the places that fit you! I chose not to apply to veterinary schools that had a huge emphasis on the number of hours expected out of applicants. I tried more to focus on schools who were more GPA valued or might look towards my other experiences that have rounded me as a person!*
 
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thesunshinefuturedogtor said:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:
21, Female, Texas, Traditional, 1st application

*a lot of this is from memory so all information may have minor errors when it comes to # of hours, but this is very close to what I submitted on my application*
*Although I am a traditional applicant, having less than 300 veterinary supervised hours is rare and I think and it was the weakest point of my application. I was able to successfully make up for it though my diverse experiences but it was difficult. The biggest thing I learned was apply to the places that fit you! I chose not to apply to veterinary schools that had a huge emphasis on the number of hours expected out of applicants. I tried more to focus on schools who were more GPA valued or might look towards my other experiences that have rounded me as a person!*

Applied:
Texas Tech, Texas A&M, Louisiana State, North Carolina State (waitlisted admission), UC Davis, Ohio State, Purdue, University of Missouri, University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, Royal Veterinary College, University of Glasgow, University of Edinburgh, University of Liverpool, and UC Dublin
(15 total)
Interview Invites:
University of Glasgow, University of Edinburgh, Royal Veterinary College, University of Liverpool, University of Minnesota and Ohio State University.
Waiting to hear:
Royal Veterinary College, University of Edinburgh, University of Wisconsin, UC Dublin
Accepted:
University of Glasgow, University of Liverpool, University of Minnesota and Ohio State University. (Waitlisted at NC State)
Attending:
Not sure yet eeek! Great choices, it will be a tough decision.

Overall GPA: 3.90 with grade replacement (~3.78 without I believe)
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.8
Last 45 GPA: 4.0

Degree(s): Graduating May 2025, B.S in Biomedical Science

Veterinary Experience: Total~260 ish
30 hrs low cost spay/neuter clinic (more now after my application)
71 hrs non-human primate veterinary care shadowing and learning
120 small animal/exotic shadowing (underestimated but its okay)
12 hrs aquarium veterinarian shadowing
~50 hrs of various semi-random experiences

Animal Experience: Total~1135
315 hrs Wildlife rescue / bird and mammal care taker
160 hrs assisting on family ranch with cows and goats
560 hrs zoo/aquarium care taker and educator
*also like ~100 hours at various small animal volunteer places like shelters*

Research: Total~500 ish
120 hrs environmental chemistry lab
44 hrs genomics laboratory volunteering
248 hrs non-human primate research
60 hrs Hispanic Serving Institution academic retention research (ongoing)
30 hrs Dolphin population field research

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Community orchestra member and violinist 250+ hrs at least
- Concerto Competition Winner
Honors Program Member with many many many volunteer hours at salvation army and other organizations
Student Government Association representative, College of Science senator meeting with Dean monthly
Pre-Veterinary Society member, officer, and now president
Alpha Gamma Delta sorority member
Deans list every semester from fall 2023-present
Gulf Scholars Program Member and scholarship recipient
High school biology class teacher assistant
Well recognized choir member
(honestly a million other minor extracurriculars as well)


Non-Animal Employment:
320 hrs Scuba diver at aquarium, marine mammal department so sort of animal-ish
240 hrs Swim school assistant
120 hrs Environmental chemistry researcher as mentioned previously

LORs:
College of Science Dean at my University
Senior Professor of Voice and Opera I studied with during college
Non-Human Primate Behaviorist
Lab animal Medicine Veterinarian
Shelter Medicine Veterinarian and Professor
Biological Anthropologist/Scientist and Director of Behavior department
(having strong LOR also helped me a ton I think)



Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
In my essay, I talked about how my experiences in laboratory animal medicine, wildlife rescue, and the emotional impact of my dog's illness have shaped my passion for veterinary medicine, and helped develop my commitment to both animal care and compassionate support for owners. Because of my low veterinary supervised hours, I really worked hard in this essay to explain my commitment to veterinary medicine and why it is truly the path for me, not just something I am interested in short term.
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Wow you have some neat extra-curriculars. Congrats!
 
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21, F, NJ, Traditional, first-time applicant

Applied: Louisiana State, Lincoln Memorial, Long Island, NC State, Midwestern, Purdue, St. George's, U of Arizona, UPenn, Western, Rowan (IS)
Interview Invites: Lincoln Memorial, Long Island, St. George's, UPenn, Western, Rowan (declined as I got into UPENN)
Waiting to hear: Western
Rejected: Louisiana State, NC State, Purdue, U of Arizona
Accepted: Midwestern (interview waived), Lincoln Memorial, Long Island, St. George's, UPENN
Attending: UPENN!!!!

Casper: 4th Quartile

Overall GPA: 3.61
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.56
Last 45 GPA: 3.8

Degree(s): Graduating in May with a Bachelor in Pre-veterinary medicine, minor in animal nutrition and a One Health Certificate

Veterinary Experience:
160 hours Animal Caretaker at University Animal Research Lab
45 hours intern at UPENN new bolton center
1360 hours as vet tech
90 hours exotic animal caretaker
56 hours medical intern at a humane association
232 hours shadow at a GP vet


Animal Experience:
168 hours as a dogsitter for one fam
130 hours as a rabbit sitter for a fam
145 hours as an animal caretaker for a family
624 hours on my Universities equestrian team
240 hours as an assistant riding instructor
186 hours as a dogsitter for a fam
488 hours as an animal caretaker for a farm

Research:
136 hours as an independent research student through UPENN veterinarian/PI

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Treasurer for my professional fraternity
Professional fraternity member
New Member Educator for my fraternity
Animal Science Club member for 1.5 years
Collar scholars
Fundraiser for children with cancer
Pre-vet club member for 1.5 years
Deans List all but one semester
Ambassador for the college
Tour guide for the school

Non-Animal Employment:
3680 hours as a waitress
350 hours as a babysitter for a child with special needs
188 hours as a babysitter

LORs:
GP Veterinarian
Large animal Vet/Professor
Head of Volunteer Program/Undergrad director
PI and Large Animal Veterinarian

Personal Statement:
How traits I have learned from my grandfather that has passed will help me as a veterinarian
 
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24, Female, Florida/USA, Traditional applicant, 3rd application cycle

Applied: University of Florida, University of Georgia, University of Arizona, Colorado State, Ohio State, Iowa State University, University of Illinois, University of Georgia, University of Wisconsin, University of Tennessee, North Carolina State, Virginia-Maryland, Oregon State, Washington State, Kansas State, University of Minnesota, University of Missouri, Louisiana State, Auburn

Interview Invites: The Ohio State University, University of Arizona

Waiting to hear: University of Arizona, Iowa State, University of Georgia, University of Wisconsin

Accepted: The Ohio State University

Attending: TBD

Overall GPA: 3.49
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.43
Last 45 GPA: 3.47

GRE: N/A

Degree(s): Associates of Arts in Biology (Eastern Florida State College), Bachelor's of Science in Biology with pre-veterinary concentration (University of Florida)

Veterinary Experience:
• Small animal GP veterinary technician (cats & dogs): 2,680 hours
• Small animal GP veterinary technician (cats, dogs, small exotics + birds): 3,370 hours
• Small animal GP surgical technician: ≈ 550 hours
• Large exotic (elephants): 75 hours

Animal Experience:
• Volunteer at a thoroughbred rescue (equine): 28 hours
• Zoo Volunteer: 18 hours
• Pet ownership/training (120 hours -- emphasized medical care for sick/injured pets, training due to my job in veterinary hospital)
• Horseback riding: 535 hours

Research:
• Elephant Research during a veterinary study abroad trip in Thailand: 12 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
• 5k participant/sponsor (clinic I work at sponsors/sets up at local events): 4 hours
• NOMV fundraising event: 3 hours
• Ultra (100 mile) race volunteer: 22 hours
• Pianist (took lessons from age 4-17, played in recitals): 2,350 hours
• Junior varsity soccer (high school): 330 hours
• Varsity lacrosse (high school): 330 hours
• Yoga: 25 hours
• Boxing: 160 hours
• Mountain biking: 40 hours
• President/founder of Odyssey of the Mind club (high school): 320 hours
• Best Buddies club treasurer: 225 hours
• Dean's list (x2)
• President's list
• Bright Futures academic scholarship
• AP scholar with honor award
• OMER's award (Odyssey of the Mind award)
• Athletic/academic scholarship

Licenses/certifications:
• CPR: Basic Life Support (ACVECC)
• CPR: Advanced Life Support (ACVECC)
• Class IV laser certification

Non-Animal Employment:
• Cinema World usher/concessions: 1,900 hours
• Jersey Mike's shift lead: 3,300 hours

LORs: all from previous/current employers/colleagues at various small animal hospitals
• DVM/practice owner
• DVM/practice owner
• Lead veterinary technician, now practice manager
• Associate DVM
• Lead DVM
• Associate DVM

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I wrote a TON of essays due to the amount of schools I applied to 😂
In my personal statement, I told a few stories about what led me to veterinary medicine and what's kept me here. I described important characteristics of veterinarians and tied in my experiences to demonstrate how I exhibit them. I also mentioned my goals and how I'd like to contribute to the field as it grows and changes.
 
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Edited: March 1, 2025

Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:
24, Female, Illinois, Traditional, 1st time applicant
Applied: Auburn, Colorado State, Cornell, Mizzou, University of Georgia, University of Illinois (IS), Washington State
Interview Invites: Mizzou, UIUC
Waitlisted: CSU, WSU, Mizzou
Rejected: UGA, Auburn
Accepted: Cornell, UIUC
Attending: University of Illinois! 💙🧡

Overall GPA: 3.76
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.68
Last 45 GPA: Unsure

Degree(s): BSc in Animal Science, University of Kentucky (2023)
MSc in Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky (expected 2025)

Veterinary Experience:
  • Graduate Assistant, under an equine veterinarian- 1000 hrs
  • Pre-Vet Student Intern, under DLAR lab animal veterinarian - 225 hrs
Animal Experience:
  • Grad. Research Assistant, managing of broodmares - 1500 hrs
  • Pre-Vet Caretaker, lab animals (NHPs, beagles, rodents) - 300 hrs
Research:
  • Grad. Research Assistant, Gluck Equine Research Center - 1000 hrs
Extracurriculars/Awards:
  • NCAA D1 Student-Athlete - 7200 hrs
  • Alpha Lambda Delta Member - 210 hrs
  • Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Team Representative - 100 hrs
  • Magna Cum Laude
  • SEC Academic Honor Roll
  • Dean's List (all four years of undergrad)
  • 2x NCAA National Rifle Team Champion
  • 3x Great American Rifle Conference Team Champion
  • Frank G. Ham Society of Character
  • Cats in the Community Spotlight
  • Alpha Lambda Delta
  • Bluegrass Spirit Academic Scholarship
  • NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship
  • SEC Brad Davis Community Service Award/Scholarship
Non-Animal Employment:
  • Undergraduate TA for U. of Kentucky equine anatomy class- 120 hrs
LORs:
  • Veterinarian/Professor- DVM, Ph.D, DACT, DECAR
  • Mentor/PI for Research- Ph. D
  • Head Coach of Rifle Team
  • Ass. Athletic Director, Student-Athlete Development
  • Sr. Associate Athletic Director
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I wrote about my lifelong passion for animal care, starting on my grandfather’s farm, where I cared for various animal species, which sparked my interest in veterinary medicine. My experiences at the University of Kentucky as an undergraduate and graduate student, particularly in equine reproduction, provided me with hands-on skills in breeding management and equine health. Balancing academics with being an NCAA Division I student-athlete and serving on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee helped me develop time management, leadership, and communication abilities. My internship at the UK Division of Laboratory Animal Resources and my role as an Equine Anatomy Teaching Assistant further expanded my practical knowledge and deepened my commitment to the veterinary field, especially in equine reproduction.

Also mentioned in several supplemental essays: experiences with balancing mental health (father's cancer diagnosis/treatments, student-athlete experiences, graduate student experiences, managing being several outside organizations), riding/showing horses for a decade throughout middle and high school, and participating in FFA/4-H through middle and high school.
*If anyone has any questions and/or would like me to elaborate on anything I have listed, please feel free to DM me or repost.
Huge congratulations to everyone that has been accepted- that life-long dream and hard work is paying off
 
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Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:
23, F, NYS, Traditional, First Application

Applied: Colorado, Cornell, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Purdue
Interview Invites: Purdue, Michigan (declined to interview)
Accepted: Purdue
Attending: Purdue!

Overall GPA: 3.55
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.44
Last 45 GPA: 3.7

Degree(s): B.S. Biology w/ Pre-Veterinary Concentration
- Had my degree and all prerequisites completed at the time of application

Veterinary Experience: 2001 hrs
Veterinary Assistant 1 (Small Animal GP) - 1380
Veterinary Assistant 2 (Small Animal ER/Specialty) - 480
Shadow 1 (Bovine Dairy Vet) - 30
Shadow 2 (Laboratory Animal Vet) - 15
Shadow 3 (Small Animal GP) - 16
Loop Abroad, Australia (Wildlife/Exotics) - 80

Animal Experience: 4730 hrs
Farm Hand Job 1 (Horses) - 2170
Farm Hand Job 2 (Horses) - 50
Farm Hand Job 3 (Goats) - 860
Farm Hand Volunteer (Alpaca/Sheep) - 50
Kennel Assistant 1 (Small Animal Hospital) - 495
Kennel Assistant 2 (Small Animal Hospital) - 990
Horse Back Riding Course (1 Semester) - 45
Kitten Foster - 70

Research: 958 hrs
Amphibian Histology/Physiology Research - 958
- Received 2 Research Awards
- Trained a fellow undergraduate student to assist in data collection
- First Author on Honor's Thesis
- Presented at my School's Research Poster Session
- Final Manuscript currently in review to be published in a journal (includes 4 PhD Co-Authors)

Extracurriculars: 1901 hrs
Teaching Assistant 1 (Animal Behavior, 2 semesters) - 90
Teaching Assistant 2 (Gen. Chemistry 2) - 60
Pre-Vet Club Activities Chair (3 semesters) - 150
Student Advisory Council Member (1 semester) - 11
Biochemistry Club Historian (4 semesters) - 120
Violinist (High School) - 1470

Awards: 7 Awards
Dean's List - 5 semesters
Research Award 1
Research Award 2

Non-Animal Employment: 2008 hrs
NYS DOH Seasonal Chemist Aid - 240
Cashier 1 (Ice Cream Stand) - 1500
Cashier 2 (Produce Stand) - 208
Dinner Party Assistant - 60

LORs: 4 Letters
Veterinarian/Practice Owner (From Veterinary Assistant 1)
Employer (From Farm Hand 3)
Animal Behavior Professor (Course Professor, Teaching Assistant 1, Also served on my research defense committee)
Research Professor/PI/Co-Author

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I started by discussing how I am a very first-generation student, my grandparents were farmers who left school very young, my parents' generation was the first to all finish high school and I am the only person to have attended college. Described how my financial situation required me to work often and from an early age, how this was an obstacle but allowed me to explore other fields, reaffirmed my interest in veterinary medicine, and provided me with a wide array of unique skills. Mentioned how my blend of animal experience, my background, and having worked in both rural and urban areas has driven me to pursue mixed animal medicine, specifically interested in catering to rural areas. Finished by mentioning how my achievements have made me confident in my ability to succeed as both a veterinary student and as a veterinarian.
-----------------------
To those with a little lower GPA like myself, it's not the end of the world! I had 3 C+'s, repeated a class, and started freshman year with a 2.9 GPA. However, I had continuous improvement in my grades with an increasing course load, did well in all the upper-level sciences, and finished my senior year with a 3.98. Do the best that you can, take time over breaks to reevaluate your study habits and research techniques that may work for you, review foundational courses you may have struggled in, and really focus on those prerequisite classes. It will all work out in the end!
 
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spencerbird said:
WOW Small world! We had an Army Reserve team visit the last few summers. Did you come out, too? That's wild.
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I did not! Unfortunately I can’t deploy with them, but they always talk about it their Saipan missions. I would LOVE to do it after vet school lol
 
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:
25, F, Michigan, Non-traditional, 2nd time applied

Applied: Wisconsin, Tufts, LIU, UPenn, Illinois, Purdue, Minnesota
Interview Invites: LIU
Interview Waitlist: UPenn
Rejected: Illinois, Purdue, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Tufts
Waiting to hear:
Accepted: LIU
Attending: LIU! ❤️

Overall GPA: 3.74
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.73
45 GPA: 3.96

CASPer: 4th quartile

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Zoology, Masters of Science in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a focus on Shelter Medicine

Veterinary Experience:
Veterinary Assistant at small animal GP - 3,000+ hrs
Veterinary Assistant at Animal Surgical Center - 240 hrs
Worked/Shadowed exotic veterinarian at Busch Gardens Summer Camp - 33 hrs
Fear Free Certification
CPR Certified
Certified Veterinary Assistant - ABC College

Animal Experience:
Volunteer, Humane Society, Cat Socializer/Dog Walker - 200+ hrs
Volunteer dog walker at Animal Control - 100 hrs
Summer Camp Zookeeper - 33 hrs
Shadowed Equine Dentist - 10 hrs

Research:
Capstone Project (40 hours?)

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Discord/Youtube Moderator - 1,000+ hrs
Dance - 7 years
Acting - 6 years
Piano - 5 years
Orchestra - 4 years
Pre-Vet association club member for 2 years
MSU Deans List Fall 2018, Spring 2020, Fall 2020, Spring 2021, Fall 2021, Spring 2022

Non-Animal Employment:
Usher at MSU’s Breslin Center - 130 hrs

LORs:
DVM - Practice Owner, Small Animal GP
Office Manager of same practice
Masters Program Academic Advisor, worked on Capstone Project with me
Professor for Masters Program Course

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Wrote about a scenario that happened at my clinic that truly helped me grow and learn even more I wanted to be a veterinarian, and how I have grown through the experiences and work to become a better, more empathetic person, who is hardworking, dedicated, and always striving to be better and learn more.

I truly still cannot believe I was accepted, especially with how little diverse experience I have, and my lack of research (until my capstone project). My first cycle I applied, I only applied to my IS (MSU) and I was declined. It was during COVID, and I couldn’t get a lot of experience, so I understood. I ended up taking time to get a masters degree this past year, and then applying again once I was done with it. I was so scared after I submitted my application, I swore nobody would take me because “well there’s a million better candidates than me!” Well, I wish I could go back to that time I was applying to let myself know it would happen. And this is proof, to all of you, that no matter if this is your first, second, third, whatever cycle for you, YOU CAN DO THIS. All it takes is a single yes. I really thought there was no way I was going to get accepted this year. Now I am for sure, no matter what, going to vet school this fall. I get to begin the journey of my dream job. I get to work to make my bigger dream in order to help my community come true, for vet school and beyond. We are all going to be living our dreams, and working to make them a reality! We are all going to become amazing veterinarians, and what is meant to happen WILL happen! I didn’t think I would ever get into vet school after getting rejected my last cycle, and look at me now. Lets make our dreams a reality! ALL THE LOVE!
 
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Does anyone have an idea of when WesternU will release decisions?
 
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:
23, M, California resident, traditional, first time applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Cornell (rejected), Tufts, UIUC (rejected), Western, Midwestern, Purdue, Minnesota
Interview Invites: Davis (waitlisted), Western (rejected invite and withdrew application), Midwestern (alternate), Purdue, Minnesota
Waiting to hear: Tufts, Purdue
Accepted: Minnesota
Attending: waiting to see about the last couple schools, otherwise happily going to UMN!

Overall GPA: 3.94
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.95
Last 45 GPA: 3.96

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Biology

Veterinary Experience:
1500+ hours as a vet assistant at GP
40 hours as vet assistant at spay/neuter clinics in Costa Rica
10 hours shadowing exotic animal surgery
20 hours shadowing small animal surgery
8 hours shadowing zoo veterinarian

Research:
1000 hours doing research in an immunology lab (HIV latency)

Extracurriculars/Awards:
summa cum laude, dean's list, Asian American Association leadership, various scholarships

Non-Animal Employment:
Lots of non-animal related work experience in restaurants, warehouses, etc.
A bit of volunteer experience at church and food pantry

LORs:
Veterinarian from the clinic I worked at
Veterinarian from volunteering at a week-long spay and neuter clinic
PI for my HIV research
2 Biology professors who know me well

Personal Statement:
Wrote about my interest in surgery, switching from pre-med to pre-vet, interest in research and reaffirming these interests through various experiences. Concluded with aspirations for the future in the veterinary field.
 
k_kesner22 said:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

23, Female, Ohio, traditional applicant, second cycle.
Applied: Ohio State, Midwestern, Missouri, Kansas State, Mississippi State, and Auburn
Interview Invites: Ohio State, Kansas state, and Mississippi State
Waiting to hear: Mississippi State
Accepted: Kansas State, Midwestern.
Waitlisted: Ohio State
Attending: TBD probably Kansas State!!!!

Overall GPA: 3.56
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.51
Last 45 GPA: 3.9

Degree(s): Bachelors in Animal Science at the University of Kentucky

Veterinary Experience:
Lisbon Veterinary Clinic (large animal) - 600 hours
Lexington Equine medical group (Equine reproduction) - 56 hours
Haygard Equine Medical Institute (Equine sports medicine) - 30 hours.
Chevy Chase Animal Clinic (small animal) - 3515 hours
Mahoning Valley Veterinary Clinic (small animal) - 1290 hours
Animal Care Clinic (small animal + small exotics) - 319 hours
Town and Country Vet (small animal) - 32 hours

Animal Experience:
Experience - (hrs)
UK sheep unit - 45 hours
Byers Brother farm and stock - 102 hours
UK beef cattle unit - 80 hours

Research:
University of Kentuckys division of laboratory animal resources - 105 hours

Extracurriculars:
UK women's club basketball
Pi Beta Phi sorority
Pre-veterinarian club
High school varsity basketball
Danceblue
National Honors Society
Beta Club

Awards:
Deans list X4
Cum Laude
Wayland Rhoads memorial scholarship
Kentucky Promise Scholarship
WAG award
Aubrey Dohar Memorial Scholarship
Third team all-district division woman's basketball
Medical Mutual Scholarship
Fear Free certified

Non-Animal Employment:
Knightline screenprint and embroidery - 240 hours
The Lake Club - 600 hours
Dairy Queen shift leader - 2750 hours


LORs:
Animal Breeding and Genetics professor
Lead DVM and owner of practice.
Hospital manager.
Two small animal DVM's

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I wrote about how I always wanted to work with animal but it wasn't until I got my first job at a small animal clinic where I realized my passion for veterinary medicine. I mentioned how seeing the effect of properly diagnosing and treating animals is on both the animals and the owners and I knew that was something I wanted to be apart of. I also wrote about how the veterinary field is as much as a human field as it is an animal field and that the connections made with people has strengthened my desire for veterinary medicine.
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Are we the same person lmao, I'm from Kentucky but am going to undergrad in Ohio, I shadowed at Chevy Chase Animal Clinic during high school and at Hagyard this past summer, and I applied to 5 of the same schools as you did (all but Mississippi)! Congratulations on your acceptances!
 
moonfang said:
Are we the same person lmao, I'm from Kentucky but am going to undergrad in Ohio, I shadowed at Chevy Chase Animal Clinic during high school and at Hagyard this past summer, and I applied to 5 of the same schools as you did (all but Mississippi)! Congratulations on your acceptances!
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Oh my gosh lol that's so funny. Small world lol. Love Chevy Chase and Dr. Headley. Thank you so much and I hope you have heard some good news as well!!!
 
breezywonton said:
I will update this as I hear back from my interviews and other schools!
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

21, Female, Ohio/USA, traditional, first time applicant

Applied: Midwestern U., Massey U., St. George U., Lincoln Memorial U., Louisiana State U. North Carolina State U., Oregon State U., U. of Prince Edward Island, Western U., Kansas State U., Purdue U., U. of Missouri, The U. of Edinburgh, Long Island U., Auburn U., The Ohio State U., U. of Minnesota, Mississippi State U., U of California - Davis, Colorado State U., U. of Illinois, Iowa State U., U. of Georgia, U. of Tennessee, U. of Wisconsin, Washington State U.
Interview Invites: Midwestern, Massey, St. George, LMU, UPEI, Western, Kansas, Purdue, Missouri, Edinburgh, Long Island, Auburn, Ohio, Minnesota, Mississippi, Illinois
Withdrew Application: Edinburgh, LIU, Minnesota, Mississippi, Illinois, Western
Waiting to hear: Iowa, Georgia, Wisconsin
Accepted: Massey University, Midwestern University, St. George University, North Carolina State University, Oregon State University, Lincoln Memorial University, Louisiana State University, University of Tennessee, University of Prince Edward Island, Kansas State University
Waitlisted: Washington, Ohio
Rejected: UC Davis, Colorado, Auburn
Attending: TBD … 🤔

Overall GPA: 3.86
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.93
Last 45 GPA: 3.93
CASPER: 2nd quartile
Degree(s): Will have a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science in May

Veterinary Experience:

Experience - (hrs)
  • USDA FSIS intern: 120hr
  • Exchange student at vet school in japan(small and large animal):48hr
  • exchange student at animal sanctuary in australia (exotics): 60hr
  • equine ambulatory shadow: 80hr
  • food animal handling class: 28hr
  • equine animal handling class: 28hr
  • lead surgical assistant/teaching assistant for teaching GP: 32hr
  • vet assistant at shelter: 360hr
  • vet assistant at GP: 288hr
  • vet assistant at teaching clinic: 1400hr
  • shadow at GP: 42hr
Animal Experience:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Kennel Tech at Dog Boarding place: 80hr
  • Working with cattle and swine at vet school in japan: 12hr
  • Show Sheep Handler: 13hr
  • Livestock care at my university: 28hr
  • Exotic animal work at sanctuary in Australia: 56hr
  • Doggie Daycare Attendant: 240hr
  • Volunteer Dog Trainer for service dogs: 160hr
  • Bather at dog grooming salon: 1520hr
  • Kennel Assistant at GP: 288hr
  • Kennel Assistant at GP: 200hr
  • Pet sitting: 500hr
  • Horseback riding: 2640hr
Research:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Research assistant at a medical school/college of pharmacy: 585hr
  • research assistant at my university: 4hr (lol)
  • Research at sanctuary in Australia: 16hr
Extracurriculars/Awards:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Shadow at microbiology lab: 24hr
  • Guitar student: 15hr
  • Volunteer committee for pre vet club: 15hr
  • club member for block and bridle club: 12hr
  • roller skating: 420hr
  • volunteer with chain free knoxville: 10hr
  • MVMA member
  • NOMV ambassador
  • homeless shelter volunteer: 64hr
  • another homeless shelter: 48hr
  • cedar point volunteer: 48hr
  • elementary school reading tutor: 136hr
  • Deans list all semesters of undergrad
  • outstanding junior in animal science award
  • pre vet club member of the year award
  • HOSA veterinary science placements: 1st-3rd place at the regional and state level
  • high school national honor society, national technical honor society, and french honor society
Non-Animal Employment:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Freshman Peer Mentor: 128hr
  • Receptionist at dog grooming salon: 1080hr
LORs:

Title of recommender (Vet? Manager? Supervisor? Vet tech?)
  • Shelter veterinarian
  • PI from research lab (PhD/MD)
  • Owner of dog grooming salon
  • supervisor for the elementary school tutoring
  • vet tech from GP
  • Ochem professor (also chair of physical sciences at my university)
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Summary of what you wrote about
i wrote a lot of essays lol but my personal statement was including the japanese phrase “ikigai” into my desire to become a veterinarian, specifically in shelter med
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Hi, congratulations on all of your acceptance offers! Quick question. It seems like traveling is important to you and you have done quite a bit. How, if at all, did you tie this into your application?
 
25y, F, Minnesota/USA, non-traditional, 3 times

Applied: Minnesota, Illinois, Colorado, Wisconsin, Purdue, Tennessee
Interview Invites: Minnesota, Illinois, Purdue
Waiting to hear: Wisconsin
Waitlist: Purdue
Accepted: Minnesota
Attending: Minnesota

Overall GPA: 3.89
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.87
Last 45 GPA: 3.82

Degree(s):
BS in Animal & Veterinary Sciences UMaine
Diploma of Higher Education in Veterinary Medicine & Surgery University of Glasgow
Veterinary Experience:
Small Animal GP- 1,610
Humane Society Intake Vetting- 120
Bluepearl Rotating Externship- 80
Low-cost Community Clinic- 48
Equine Hospital Externship- 132
Humane Society Externship- 40
Calving & Calf Processing- 135

Animal Experience:
Intern Zookeeper- 160
Lambing- 252
Undergrad work with dairy herd, sheep, pigs, and horses- 850
Stable assistant- 8,000

Research:
UMaine Wildlife Diseases Genetics Lab- 200

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Hunter riding lessons- 36
Riding club- 32
Science Olympiad- 100
Marching Band- 480
Alpine Ski Racing- 728
Peer Wellbeing Support- 60
Dean’s list all semesters at UMaine
Graduated Summa cum laude

Non-Animal Employment:
Catering Server- 600
Skill Hill CSR- 190
Camp Counselor- 375

LORs:
Veterinarian/Practice Owner
PI for undergrad research
DVM in charge of equine herd in undergrad
Animal Rescue Director of Community Engagement

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Wrote about how out of all my experiences I still enjoyed large animal/mixed the best, despite knowing the hardships (isolation due to rural location, on-call 24/7, lower salary, etc). Also wrote about how I want to pursue not just because I love animals but because I love science/medicine and enjoy knowing I am helping my community.
 
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24, female, California/United States, Traditional(?), first-time applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Oregon State University, Washington State University, University of Arizona, University of Edinburgh, Royal Veterinary College
Interview Invites: UC Davis, Royal Veterinary College, University of Arizona (declined to interview), University of Edinburgh (declined to interview)
Waiting to hear: none
Waitlist: Washington State University, Royal Veterinary College 4-year
Accepted: UC Davis, Oregon State University, Royal Veterinary College 5-year
Attending: UC Davis

Overall GPA: 3.84
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.82
Last 45 GPA: 3.89

Degree(s): Bachelor's of Science in Animal Science

Veterinary Experience:
Small animal GP veterinary assistant (local, corporate) - 1100 hours
Behavior specialty shadowing (UC Davis) - 70 hours
Veterinary aide for students with disabilities in clinical rotations (UC Davis) - 700 hours

Animal Experience:
Fostering kittens - 70 hours
Pet groomer - 120 hours
Introductory horse class - 40 hours
Volunteer at zoo - 400 hours

Research:
Behavior research on California ground squirrels (J.E. Smith Lab) - 100 hours
Behavior research on beef cattle (Horback Lab) - 300 hours
Behavior research on dairy calves (Tucker Lab) - 200 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Graduated w/ honor's, Dean's list about twice
Phi Kappa Phi membership (??? I kind of just threw this one in lol)
University's Science Olympiad: Life Sciences co-director - 500 hours
President of an animal-related club in high school - 240 hours
Minor volunteering experiences (~10 hours or less each)
A couple of hobbies (skateboarding, writing, art)

Non-Animal Employment:
Barista - 1700 hours
Teaching assistant - 210 hours

LORs:
Veterinarian
Supervisor for veterinary aide job at UC Davis
PI for undegrad research
Manager of store I was a barista at

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I basically said "I don't want to be a veterinarian" as my opening statement, because it's true. I struggled with my dreams and my realistic expectations of my future. I spent a couple years trying to figure out what I really wanted to do. In the end, I wrote about how I slowly found myself pursuing my dream again through the lenses of behavior and education. I don't mind being a regular veterinarian (bless them, their work is amazing), but my goal is to be a behavioral specialist in the future!
 
solerian said:
24, female, California/United States, Traditional(?), first-time applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Oregon State University, Washington State University, University of Arizona, University of Edinburgh, Royal Veterinary College
Interview Invites: UC Davis, Royal Veterinary College, University of Arizona (declined to interview), University of Edinburgh (declined to interview)
Waiting to hear: none
Waitlist: Washington State University, Royal Veterinary College 4-year
Accepted: UC Davis, Oregon State University, Royal Veterinary College 5-year
Attending: UC Davis

Overall GPA: 3.84
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.82
Last 45 GPA: 3.89

Degree(s): Bachelor's of Science in Animal Science

Veterinary Experience:
Small animal GP veterinary assistant (local, corporate) - 1100 hours
Behavior specialty shadowing (UC Davis) - 70 hours
Veterinary aide for students with disabilities in clinical rotations (UC Davis) - 700 hours

Animal Experience:
Fostering kittens - 70 hours
Pet groomer - 120 hours
Introductory horse class - 40 hours
Volunteer at zoo - 400 hours

Research:
Behavior research on California ground squirrels (J.E. Smith Lab) - 100 hours
Behavior research on beef cattle (Horback Lab) - 300 hours
Behavior research on dairy calves (Tucker Lab) - 200 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Graduated w/ honor's, Dean's list about twice
Phi Kappa Phi membership (??? I kind of just threw this one in lol)
University's Science Olympiad: Life Sciences co-director - 500 hours
President of an animal-related club in high school - 240 hours
Minor volunteering experiences (~10 hours or less each)
A couple of hobbies (skateboarding, writing, art)

Non-Animal Employment:
Barista - 1700 hours
Teaching assistant - 210 hours

LORs:
Veterinarian
Supervisor for veterinary aide job at UC Davis
PI for undegrad research
Manager of store I was a barista at

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I basically said "I don't want to be a veterinarian" as my opening statement, because it's true. I struggled with my dreams and my realistic expectations of my future. I spent a couple years trying to figure out what I really wanted to do. In the end, I wrote about how I slowly found myself pursuing my dream again through the lenses of behavior and education. I don't mind being a regular veterinarian (bless them, their work is amazing), but my goal is to be a behavioral specialist in the future!
Click to expand...
God bless you, it’s rough trying find any behaviorists these days, we sure need ‘em!
 
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:
26, F, Pennsylvania, Non-traditional, First-time applicant

Applied: Illinois, Purdue, Virginia-Maryland, Wisconsin, Michigan, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Dublin, Royal Vet College, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Atlantic Vet College (UPEI), Ohio, Arizona, Tennessee, UPenn
Interview Invites: Dublin (withdrew), Edinburgh (withdrew), Glasgow, UPenn, RVC, UPEI
Waiting to hear: UPenn (waitlisted), Washington (waitlisted)
Accepted: Oregon, Colorado, UPEI (pulled from waitlist)
Attending: OREGON!!! :beaver:

Overall GPA: 3.80
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.86
Last 45 GPA: 3.86

GRE (Q/V/W): x (%) / y (%) / z (%)
N/A

Degree(s): Biological Sciences (BS) (I had biochem, genetics, animal physio + lab as planned prereqs at time of application.) Had to complete Fall & Spring semesters. I also had a lot of classes from 4 different colleges.

Veterinary Experience: ~2,074 hrs
  • Equine Care Assistant: 2,001 (heavily revolved around equine reproduction and general care. This was the bulk of my vet experience).
  • Shadowing Large Animal GP- 16
  • Shadowing Small Animal ER- 30
  • Shadowing Equine Acupuncture/ Chiropractor- 27
Animal Experience: 4,465+ hrs (I grew up on a farm so the animal experience feels slightly innumerable but these are aspects I highlighted!)
  • Equine Trail Guide & Equine Herd Manager- 1200
  • Livestock Apprentice – 1050
  • Livestock Assistant- 400
  • Hobby Goat Milking & Cheesemaking – 1815
Research:
Experience – a whole lotta NOTHIN! 0 hrs.

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Experience –
  • Dean’s list 3 times at time of application.
  • Hobby German Language Learning- 963
  • Hobby Oil Painting & Animation- 4375
Non-Animal Employment: 9,505 (I basically put my whole resume here lol)
Experience –
  • Apprentice Cheesemaker- 2080
  • Cheesemaker – 160
  • Septic Installer- 405
  • Dairy Plant Worker- 840
  • Vegetable Field Assistant- 2400
  • Cashier and Ticket Sales – 2600
  • Cashier- 256
  • Cashier- 304
  • Hostess- 460
LORs: 4 letters (2 vet, 1 academic, 1 work-related)
  • DVM & Practice Owner (from equine repro farm)
  • DVM & Practice Owner (from equine chiropractor/ acupuncturist)
  • Organic Chemistry Professor
  • Lead Cheesemaker (A boss/ friend who knew me since I was 19 and I thought could speak highly of my work ethic and love for cheese….cheese is important).

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:

For my personal statement I wrote two narrative style paragraphs about animals giving birth. One was a ewe who had triplets, the ewe died later that night, and whose lambs had to be bonded to a different ewe who had a stillborn. The 2nd story was of a foal who was acting like he was on death’s door but all he needed was an enema. I ended the personal statement waxing philosophic a bit on vet med and how bizarre biology is, dealing with a job that is the joys of life and necessary sorrows of death, and talking about my time cheesemaking and my commitment to agriculture and rural LA medicine.

For the schools I was accepted to, I can’t remember what I wrote, but I wrote A LOT of essays. I would say hold your inspiration for the essays of the schools you really care about. I think the quality of my writing made a difference for those schools.

~Anyways, I had like -1,000 self-confidence applying to vet schools, which is why I chose so many, and the process is hard, and 5 years ago, I would've laughed in my own face if I went back in time to tell myself what I was doing. I had a tough time way back in high school and spent my first two years of college changing universities before withdrawing entirely and working a slew of different jobs. But it pushed me to develop the confidence I needed to see myself pursuing vet med. It literally all started when I was at a Dr's office and the doc nonchalantly asked me if I was a medical student, haha no! I was making freakin' ice cream for a living at the time. But dang she got me thinking...and here I am! (I had a teledoc appointment with that same doc once and told her that appointment had a profound effect on me!) So here's to saying that sometimes you just need some time to cook and there's nothing wrong with it. Everyone at their own pace.~ 🐎
 
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Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22, F, Ohio/USA, Traditional, First-time applicant

Applied: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University, Purdue University, University of Georgia, North Carolina State University, Colorado State University

Interview Invites: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University (declined), Purdue University

Rejected: North Carolina State, Colorado State, Ohio State, University of Georgia
Waitlisted: Purdue, Mississippi State University
Accepted: Mizzou!
Attending: Mizzou🖤💛

Overall GPA: 4.00
Science Prerequisite GPA: 4.00
Last 45 GPA: 4.00

Degree(s): Graduating this spring with Bachelor of Science in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Medicine Emphasis, Minor in Chemistry, Minor in Biology, Honors Scholar with thesis in tick virus pathogenesis

Veterinary Experience:
  • Job Shadow at small animal specialty hospital (rehab & ER) - 12 hours
  • Veterinary Assistant at small animal GP - 477 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal ER - 112 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal GP (surgery focused) - 34 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine medical & surgical center + ambulatory services in Arizona - 21 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine hospital & ambulatory services in Cleveland, OH - 40 hours
  • Practical equine handling course - 32 hours
  • Practical food animal handling course - 32 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia - 50 hours
  • Job Shadow Ohio Veterinary Medical Officer for USDA APHIS - 6 hours

Animal Experience:
  • Kennel assistant at dog/cat boarding facility - 364 hours
  • 4 Paws for Ability Secondary Volunteer trainer - 100 hours
  • Kennel assistant at small animal GP - 120 hours
  • Volunteer at humane society - 15 hours
  • Competitive horseback riding over 10 years - 1365 hours (probably an underestimation but did not want to go to crazy with the hours since it is a lot)
  • Barn duty for livestock at my university - 41 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia (ranger work) - 80 hours
  • Advanced Food Animal Reproduction techniques course - 18 hours
  • Volunteer barn assistant and lesson volunteer at therapeutic equine facility - 56 hours
  • Summer barn assistant for animal science center at my university - 450 hours
  • Job shadow ODA Health inspector - 6 hours

Research:
  • Use of novel BPZ protein derivatives for treating T.gondii - 20 hours
  • Tick virus pathogenesis -150 hours
    • Summer research intern
    • Honors Thesis
  • Enrichment research project during study abroad in Australia - 15 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
  • Tri-Beta National Biological Honor Society
    • Associate membership (Freshman-Sophomore), Regular Membership (Junior-Senior)
    • Fundraising Chair (Sophomore)
    • President-Elect (Junior)
    • President (Senior)
  • Honors Student Association
    • Co-founder/President (Sophomore-Senior)
  • 2 University Choirs
    • First Soprano (Freshman-Senior)
    • Secretary (Sophomore)
    • Vice President (Junior)
    • Co-President (Senior)
    • Group leader for Czech Republic Concert tours spring 2023 & 2024
  • Homeless shelter dinner volunteer - 80 hours (Sophomore-Junior)
  • Scholarship competition interviewer - 26 hours
  • Pre-vet club fundraising volunteer - 24 hours
  • Middle school and High school choir
  • Pre-vet Club member (Freshman-Senior)
  • Service dog training Club member (Freshmen-Junior)
  • Delta Tau Alpha Agricultural Honor Society (Sophomore-Senior)
  • Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society (Junior-Senior)
  • High school marching band/color guard (HS Sophomore-HS Senior)
    • Vice President of Equipment (HS Senior)
  • NHS (HS Senior)
  • Dean's List x 7
  • Phi Kappa Phi Sophomore Award
  • Accepted conference abstract
  • Accepted honors student mental health publication

Non-Animal Employment:
  • Crew member at pizza place (HS Junior) - 475 hours
  • Chemistry/Upper-level science tutor (Sophomore-Senior) - 315 hours
  • Music librarian for choir (Junior-Senior) - 50 hours

LORs:
  • Biology professor/research advisor
  • Choir director
  • Small animal veterinarian/hospital director at a practice I worked for

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Personal Statement: I based my personal statement off of 3 major experiences that form my "why" for a career in vet med. In the first story, I discussed a particularly impactful experience I had with a spirited horse in a lesson program that altered both me as a rider and advocate for animal welfare. Next, I talked about how undergrad destroyed my previous notions of what a vet looks like through exposure to the diverse paths within the profession. Here I talked about how I fell in love with research and how I find it so inspiring that veterinarians work at the frontiers of scientific advancement. The last story involved how I discovered a passion for teaching through tutoring how this related to client education in the profession and how I plan to return to higher education during my career to teach the future of veterinary professionals. I ended out my statement by intertwining all of these stories into my current why.

I wrote a LOT of other essays, but what stood out to me were prompts where I could discuss who I was outside of the science field, my leadership experience, and an ethical dilemma I observed while shadowing at a small animal ER. To future applicants, my advice for the supplemental essays is to be a good storyteller. Talk about the difficult things you observed in practice or something completely unrelated to veterinary medicine that is a core part of who you are today. Show admissions what a great candidate you are through the stories you have experienced!

~Growing up I was always a quiet kid and because of this I was always made to feel like I could not amount to any sort of leadership potential. However, spite is a great motivator 😉 Do all the things just because people think you can't do them. Trust me, you will get so much farther in life for simply getting out of your comfort zone. I truly did not think I would be here on this forum posting my success story after a lifetime of being told I would not get in to vet school for being the "quiet kid" and an impersonal interview resulting in a rejection from my IS. Like many others on this forum, I want to echo that it truly does take only one yes and I would love to help future applicants in the application process by answering any questions, reviewing essays, or just offer a good laugh!

And to the other quiet kiddos out there, you got this, you can be a great leader, and don't forget your spite 😉
 
Last edited:
Noodles21 said:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22, F, Ohio/USA, Traditional, First-time applicant

Applied: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University, Purdue University, University of Georgia, North Carolina State University, Colorado State University

Interview Invites: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University (declined), Purdue University

Waiting to hear: Mississippi State University, University of Georgia
Rejected: North Carolina State, Colorado State, Ohio State
Waitlisted: Purdue
Accepted: Mizzou!
Attending: TBD

Overall GPA: 4.00
Science Prerequisite GPA: 4.00
Last 45 GPA: 4.00

Degree(s): Graduating this spring with Bachelor of Science in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Medicine Emphasis, Minor in Chemistry, Minor in Biology, Honors Scholar with thesis in tick virus pathogenesis

Veterinary Experience:
  • Job Shadow at small animal specialty hospital (rehab & ER) - 12 hours
  • Veterinary Assistant at small animal GP - 477 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal ER - 112 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal GP (surgery focused) - 34 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine medical & surgical center + ambulatory services in Arizona - 21 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine hospital & ambulatory services in Cleveland, OH - 40 hours
  • Practical equine handling course - 32 hours
  • Practical food animal handling course - 32 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia - 50 hours
  • Job Shadow Ohio Veterinary Medical Officer for USDA APHIS - 6 hours

Animal Experience:
  • Kennel assistant at dog/cat boarding facility - 364 hours
  • 4 Paws for Ability Secondary Volunteer trainer - 100 hours
  • Kennel assistant at small animal GP - 120 hours
  • Volunteer at humane society - 15 hours
  • Competitive horseback riding over 10 years - 1365 hours (probably an underestimation but did not want to go to crazy with the hours since it is a lot)
  • Barn duty for livestock at my university - 41 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia (ranger work) - 80 hours
  • Advanced Food Animal Reproduction techniques course - 18 hours
  • Volunteer barn assistant and lesson volunteer at therapeutic equine facility - 56 hours
  • Summer barn assistant for animal science center at my university - 450 hours
  • Job shadow ODA Health inspector - 6 hours

Research:
  • Use of novel BPZ protein derivatives for treating T.gondii - 20 hours
  • Tick virus pathogenesis -150 hours
    • Summer research intern
    • Honors Thesis
  • Enrichment research project during study abroad in Australia - 15 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
  • Tri-Beta National Biological Honor Society
    • Associate membership (Freshman-Sophomore), Regular Membership (Junior-Senior)
    • Fundraising Chair (Sophomore)
    • President-Elect (Junior)
    • President (Senior)
  • Honors Student Association
    • Co-founder/President (Sophomore-Senior)
  • 2 University Choirs
    • First Soprano (Freshman-Senior)
    • Secretary (Sophomore)
    • Vice President (Junior)
    • Co-President (Senior)
    • Group leader for Czech Republic Concert tours spring 2023 & 2024
  • Homeless shelter dinner volunteer - 80 hours (Sophomore-Junior)
  • Scholarship competition interviewer - 26 hours
  • Pre-vet club fundraising volunteer - 24 hours
  • Middle school and High school choir
  • Pre-vet Club member (Freshman-Senior)
  • Service dog training Club member (Freshmen-Junior)
  • Delta Tau Alpha Agricultural Honor Society (Sophomore-Senior)
  • Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society (Junior-Senior)
  • High school marching band/color guard (HS Sophomore-HS Senior)
    • Vice President of Equipment (HS Senior)
  • NHS (HS Senior)
  • Dean's List x 7
  • Phi Kappa Phi Sophomore Award
  • Accepted conference abstract
  • Accepted honors student mental health publication

Non-Animal Employment:
  • Crew member at pizza place (HS Junior) - 475 hours
  • Chemistry/Upper-level science tutor (Sophomore-Senior) - 315 hours
  • Music librarian for choir (Junior-Senior) - 50 hours

LORs:
  • Biology professor/research advisor
  • Choir director
  • Small animal veterinarian/hospital director at a practice I worked for

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Personal Statement: I based my personal statement off of 3 major experiences that form my "why" for a career in vet med. In the first story, I discussed a particularly impactful experience I had with a spirited horse in a lesson program that altered both me as a rider and advocate for animal welfare. Next, I talked about how undergrad destroyed my previous notions of what a vet looks like through exposure to the diverse paths within the profession. Here I talked about how I fell in love with research and how I find it so inspiring that veterinarians work at the frontiers of scientific advancement. The last story involved how I discovered a passion for teaching through tutoring how this related to client education in the profession and how I plan to return to higher education during my career to teach the future of veterinary professionals. I ended out my statement by intertwining all of these stories into my current why.

I wrote a LOT of other essays, but what stood out to me were prompts where I could discuss who I was outside of the science field, my leadership experience, and an ethical dilemma I observed while shadowing at a small animal ER. To future applicants, my advice for the supplemental essays is to be a good storyteller. Talk about the difficult things you observed in practice or something completely unrelated to veterinary medicine that is a core part of who you are today. Show admissions what a great candidate you are through the stories you have experienced!

~Growing up I was always a quiet kid and because of this I was always made to feel like I could not amount to any sort of leadership potential. However, spite is a great motivator 😉 Do all the things just because people think you can't do them. Trust me, you will get so much farther in life for simply getting out of your comfort zone. I truly did not think I would be here on this forum posting my success story after a lifetime of being told I would not get in to vet school for being the "quiet kid" and an impersonal interview resulting in a rejection from my IS. Like many others on this forum, I want to echo that it truly does take only one yes and I would love to help future applicants in the application process by answering any questions, reviewing essays, or just offer a good laugh!

And to the other quiet kiddos out there, you got this, you can be a great leader, and don't forget your spite 😉
Click to expand...
that's my madame president 😍😍
 
22, Female (Hispanic), Missouri, Traditional, first time applicant:

Applied:
University of Illinois
UC Davis
Purdue
Ohio State
North Carolina
Wisconsin
Mizzou
Interview Invites:
Mizzou
Waiting to hear:
N/a

Accepted:
Mizzou
Attending:
Mizzou!!!

Overall GPA:3.64
Science Prerequisite GPA:3.8
Last 45 GPA:3.9

Degree(s):
Animal Science

Veterinary Experience (not very unique):
Experience -
VA (1)-1600, small animal
VA (2)-500, small animal and exotics
Research Vet Shadowing- 100 hr, laboratory animal

Animal Experience:
Experience -
Wildlife Sanctuary in Australia- 160 hr (very minimal vet hours)
Wildlife Sanctuary Volunteer with Exotics- 250 hr
Research Animal Husbandry- 100hr

Swine caretaker at research farm (idk)

Research:
Predicted publications for 4 papers
Research hours -400 hr
Research grant

TA'd for two courses, one higher lever one lower level.
Surgery course, performed surgery on two animals.

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Experience -
Research grant
Improv

LORs:
2 Veterinarians, one medical director
1 professor of repro science
1 Vice provost of university
1 vet tech practice manager
1 internal, CVM superstar researcher


Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Standard essay stuff, ran it past previous admission boards people that I knew, made them cry 😭
 
Last edited:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied: 24, Female, North Carolina, Non-traditional, second application

Applied: RVC, North Carolina State University, Washington State University, Oregon State University, Colorado State University, University College Dublin
Interview Invites: NCSU (they interview all in-state applicants), RVC, UCD Dublin
Waiting to hear: UCD Dublin
Accepted: RVC 4-year
Waitlisted: WSU, OSU, and CSU
Attending: TBD but probably RVC

Overall GPA: 3.61
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.72
Last 45 GPA: 3.79

Degree(s): B.S. Biology w/ Chemistry and Bioethics, Humanities, and Medicine (BHM) minors

Veterinary Experience:
Small animal GP vet assistant: 280hrs
Laboratory animal vet shadowing: 4hrs

Animal Experience:
Foster (mostly kittens and older cats): 273hrs
Adoption coordinator @ humane society: 24hrs
Pet-sitting: 150hrs

Research:
Nonhuman primate pathology: 140hrs
Reptilian cognition: 76hrs
Ecology & Resource Management, land surveys, NE Australia: 60hrs
Study of neonicotinoid pesticide content in honey: 93hrs

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Dean's List x7
National Society of Leadership & Success, member
Merit-based scholarships
National Honors Society (HS)
National English Honors Society (HS)
Captain, Varsity Soccer, 3 years (HS)

Non-Animal Employment:
Project manager- Clinical & Translational research administration: 4,600hrs
Assistant project manager (work-study)- Biomedical informatics: 320hrs
Poker instructor: 60hrs
Server: 2630hrs
Art gallery assistant (work-study): 106hrs

LORs:
Small animal veterinarian
Research veterinarians x2
Program director & team lead for my research admin job

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
To state the obvious, my vet and animal hours are pretty low compared to other successful applicants. In my personal statements, I explained my struggle to find a meaningful career, described some of the things I liked about other careers that I pursued/considered, and told the story of how vet med finally gave me a sense of purpose. I included some context that because I didn't end up pursuing vet med until after I finished undergrad and was already working full time (8-5 Mon-Fri, aka the business hours of every vet in my area smh), I completed all of my vet experience, almost all of my research experience, and some pre-reqs on weekends, early mornings, and evenings. Really, I just wanted to paint the picture that even though I entered vet med relatively late in the game, I am more than willing to put in the work to catch up.
(And for added context because ppl always ask why I don't just work in vet med full time - my research admin job pays much better and gives me health insurance. I was able to put away more money for school and the management experience has done wonders for my professional and leadership skills)

I was VERY hesitant to post my stats here, but I have seen so many posts about people wondering if they have enough hours and seriously doubting themselves. Maybe this post will give some hope. I honestly think it's more important to tell a compelling story and to demonstrate what you have learned than it is to simply accumulate hours on paper. Who knows, though, because my IS school disagreed lol. Definitely not saying that you shouldn't get as much diverse experience as possible, just pointing out that my stats weren't the end-all-be-all of my application.
 
blackcatgreeneyes said:
I was able to put away more money for school and the management experience has done wonders for my professional and leadership skills
Click to expand...

I can't emphasize how much this has helped me as a doctor. My third gap year was spent as an RD for my undergrad. Spent 0 time in a vet clinic for 8 months because of this job. I spoke about the influence this job had in essays and in my interview. That was the year I was accepted (though only one acceptance with much lower stats otherwise).

Now as a doctor, the skills I learned on that job help me immensely. Organization on busy days directing my techs and assistants; keeping externs and topic rounds organized; prioritizing what records to write first; so much.
 

21, Female, Oklahoma, Traditional, #1st time applicant


Applied: LSU, KSU, OK State
Interview Invites: OK State
Waiting to hear: N/A
Waitlisted: LSU - took myself out of the applicant pool
Accepted: OK State
Attending: OK State! GO POKES!

Overall GPA: 3.79
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.9
Last 45 GPA: 3.83

GRE (Q/V/W): TBH - don't even remember. It wasn't good, though. 🤣 Yay for no more GRE at OK State!

Degree(s): Associate in "Science" - May 2023
BS in Animal Science - May 2025
Minor in Microbiology - May 2025

Veterinary Experience:
Small animal GP: ~ 300 hours
Mixed animal, ambulatory: 390 hours

**That's "it"... However... I made a note on my application (and apparently it worked...🤪). I have been *seriously* shadowing the small animal GP vet since 2017. I likely have thousands and thousands of hours, but I was not the smartest high school student and did not track any hours until right before I submitted my application. Do not do what I did, kids🤣**

Animal Experience:
Cow ownership: 25 hours - had just got them, ha
Steers (beef cattle): 300 hours
Humane Society (volunteer) 5 hours
Therapeutic riding center (volunteer) 24 hours
Horse training of 3 yearlings (employment): 80 hours

Research:
Grand total of zero hours!!

Extracurriculars/Awards:
Horseback riding, HJ/low-level dressage: 650 hours
Pre-vet club: 26 hours
4-H club secretary: 13 hours
4-H club member: 147
Church group member: 300 hours
2 different choir groups: 320 hours
Piano lessons/recitals/accompanying: 816 hours
Continuing education conference: 10 hours (about 10 lectures)
Animal nutrition teaching assistant: around 25ish hours

President's list or Dean's list for all semesters of undergrad
Bovine artificial insemination certified

Non-Animal Employment:
Church pianist: 15 hours
Photography 2nd shooter: 58 hours
Own photography business: 300+ hours

LORs:
DVM - mixed animal
Professor - animal nutrition class that I took + TAed for
Professor - Took 2 classes with them + they're my advisor
Professor - Took zoology & biology class
Close family friend who I've worked with/have both experienced traumatic situations together ...😶(this one was to fill KSU's "personal" letter request specifically)

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I wrote heavily about the community I grew up in and want to practice in. Talked about the desperate need that my community (rural Oklahoma) has for (specifically) livestock & large animal emergency veterinarians. Talked about how I thought the joke of, "I don't like people so I'm in vet med" is the wrong view to have - the people you interact with determine the care of the animal. Also discussed that veterinary medicine is a noble profession and it's an honor to take care of the most innocent of creatures.



**As you can see - my application is not the best one you've ever seen. Low veterinary hours (that I tracked at least, ha), no research, not much volunteer work, low employment hours - nothing too crazy on there. Your application does not need to be anything too jaw-dropping. ☺ During my undergrad I have been surrounded by pre-vets who have the most amazing experiences/awards/grades/etc. it always made me feel terrible and like I should not even apply. Don't let the imposter syndrome get to you.
Congratulations to everyone who was accepted this cycle and good luck to those applying for c/o 2030!
 
Noodles21 said:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22, F, Ohio/USA, Traditional, First-time applicant

Applied: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University, Purdue University, University of Georgia, North Carolina State University, Colorado State University

Interview Invites: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University (declined), Purdue University

Waiting to hear: Mississippi State University, University of Georgia
Rejected: North Carolina State, Colorado State, Ohio State
Waitlisted: Purdue
Accepted: Mizzou!
Attending: TBD

Overall GPA: 4.00
Science Prerequisite GPA: 4.00
Last 45 GPA: 4.00

Degree(s): Graduating this spring with Bachelor of Science in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Medicine Emphasis, Minor in Chemistry, Minor in Biology, Honors Scholar with thesis in tick virus pathogenesis

Veterinary Experience:
  • Job Shadow at small animal specialty hospital (rehab & ER) - 12 hours
  • Veterinary Assistant at small animal GP - 477 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal ER - 112 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal GP (surgery focused) - 34 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine medical & surgical center + ambulatory services in Arizona - 21 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine hospital & ambulatory services in Cleveland, OH - 40 hours
  • Practical equine handling course - 32 hours
  • Practical food animal handling course - 32 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia - 50 hours
  • Job Shadow Ohio Veterinary Medical Officer for USDA APHIS - 6 hours

Animal Experience:
  • Kennel assistant at dog/cat boarding facility - 364 hours
  • 4 Paws for Ability Secondary Volunteer trainer - 100 hours
  • Kennel assistant at small animal GP - 120 hours
  • Volunteer at humane society - 15 hours
  • Competitive horseback riding over 10 years - 1365 hours (probably an underestimation but did not want to go to crazy with the hours since it is a lot)
  • Barn duty for livestock at my university - 41 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia (ranger work) - 80 hours
  • Advanced Food Animal Reproduction techniques course - 18 hours
  • Volunteer barn assistant and lesson volunteer at therapeutic equine facility - 56 hours
  • Summer barn assistant for animal science center at my university - 450 hours
  • Job shadow ODA Health inspector - 6 hours

Research:
  • Use of novel BPZ protein derivatives for treating T.gondii - 20 hours
  • Tick virus pathogenesis -150 hours
    • Summer research intern
    • Honors Thesis
  • Enrichment research project during study abroad in Australia - 15 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
  • Tri-Beta National Biological Honor Society
    • Associate membership (Freshman-Sophomore), Regular Membership (Junior-Senior)
    • Fundraising Chair (Sophomore)
    • President-Elect (Junior)
    • President (Senior)
  • Honors Student Association
    • Co-founder/President (Sophomore-Senior)
  • 2 University Choirs
    • First Soprano (Freshman-Senior)
    • Secretary (Sophomore)
    • Vice President (Junior)
    • Co-President (Senior)
    • Group leader for Czech Republic Concert tours spring 2023 & 2024
  • Homeless shelter dinner volunteer - 80 hours (Sophomore-Junior)
  • Scholarship competition interviewer - 26 hours
  • Pre-vet club fundraising volunteer - 24 hours
  • Middle school and High school choir
  • Pre-vet Club member (Freshman-Senior)
  • Service dog training Club member (Freshmen-Junior)
  • Delta Tau Alpha Agricultural Honor Society (Sophomore-Senior)
  • Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society (Junior-Senior)
  • High school marching band/color guard (HS Sophomore-HS Senior)
    • Vice President of Equipment (HS Senior)
  • NHS (HS Senior)
  • Dean's List x 7
  • Phi Kappa Phi Sophomore Award
  • Accepted conference abstract
  • Accepted honors student mental health publication

Non-Animal Employment:
  • Crew member at pizza place (HS Junior) - 475 hours
  • Chemistry/Upper-level science tutor (Sophomore-Senior) - 315 hours
  • Music librarian for choir (Junior-Senior) - 50 hours

LORs:
  • Biology professor/research advisor
  • Choir director
  • Small animal veterinarian/hospital director at a practice I worked for

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Personal Statement: I based my personal statement off of 3 major experiences that form my "why" for a career in vet med. In the first story, I discussed a particularly impactful experience I had with a spirited horse in a lesson program that altered both me as a rider and advocate for animal welfare. Next, I talked about how undergrad destroyed my previous notions of what a vet looks like through exposure to the diverse paths within the profession. Here I talked about how I fell in love with research and how I find it so inspiring that veterinarians work at the frontiers of scientific advancement. The last story involved how I discovered a passion for teaching through tutoring how this related to client education in the profession and how I plan to return to higher education during my career to teach the future of veterinary professionals. I ended out my statement by intertwining all of these stories into my current why.

I wrote a LOT of other essays, but what stood out to me were prompts where I could discuss who I was outside of the science field, my leadership experience, and an ethical dilemma I observed while shadowing at a small animal ER. To future applicants, my advice for the supplemental essays is to be a good storyteller. Talk about the difficult things you observed in practice or something completely unrelated to veterinary medicine that is a core part of who you are today. Show admissions what a great candidate you are through the stories you have experienced!

~Growing up I was always a quiet kid and because of this I was always made to feel like I could not amount to any sort of leadership potential. However, spite is a great motivator 😉 Do all the things just because people think you can't do them. Trust me, you will get so much farther in life for simply getting out of your comfort zone. I truly did not think I would be here on this forum posting my success story after a lifetime of being told I would not get in to vet school for being the "quiet kid" and an impersonal interview resulting in a rejection from my IS. Like many others on this forum, I want to echo that it truly does take only one yes and I would love to help future applicants in the application process by answering any questions, reviewing essays, or just offer a good laugh!

And to the other quiet kiddos out there, you got this, you can be a great leader, and don't forget your spite 😉
Click to expand...
As one Findlay gal to another, let me know if you have any questions about Mizzou/the process of moving from Ohio to Missouri! Happy to help out if I can, and I hope we get to be classmates next year 😊
 
Noodles21 said:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22, F, Ohio/USA, Traditional, First-time applicant

Applied: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University, Purdue University, University of Georgia, North Carolina State University, Colorado State University

Interview Invites: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University (declined), Purdue University

Waiting to hear: Mississippi State University, University of Georgia
Rejected: North Carolina State, Colorado State, Ohio State
Waitlisted: Purdue
Accepted: Mizzou!
Attending: TBD

Overall GPA: 4.00
Science Prerequisite GPA: 4.00
Last 45 GPA: 4.00

Degree(s): Graduating this spring with Bachelor of Science in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Medicine Emphasis, Minor in Chemistry, Minor in Biology, Honors Scholar with thesis in tick virus pathogenesis

Veterinary Experience:
  • Job Shadow at small animal specialty hospital (rehab & ER) - 12 hours
  • Veterinary Assistant at small animal GP - 477 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal ER - 112 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal GP (surgery focused) - 34 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine medical & surgical center + ambulatory services in Arizona - 21 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine hospital & ambulatory services in Cleveland, OH - 40 hours
  • Practical equine handling course - 32 hours
  • Practical food animal handling course - 32 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia - 50 hours
  • Job Shadow Ohio Veterinary Medical Officer for USDA APHIS - 6 hours

Animal Experience:
  • Kennel assistant at dog/cat boarding facility - 364 hours
  • 4 Paws for Ability Secondary Volunteer trainer - 100 hours
  • Kennel assistant at small animal GP - 120 hours
  • Volunteer at humane society - 15 hours
  • Competitive horseback riding over 10 years - 1365 hours (probably an underestimation but did not want to go to crazy with the hours since it is a lot)
  • Barn duty for livestock at my university - 41 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia (ranger work) - 80 hours
  • Advanced Food Animal Reproduction techniques course - 18 hours
  • Volunteer barn assistant and lesson volunteer at therapeutic equine facility - 56 hours
  • Summer barn assistant for animal science center at my university - 450 hours
  • Job shadow ODA Health inspector - 6 hours

Research:
  • Use of novel BPZ protein derivatives for treating T.gondii - 20 hours
  • Tick virus pathogenesis -150 hours
    • Summer research intern
    • Honors Thesis
  • Enrichment research project during study abroad in Australia - 15 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
  • Tri-Beta National Biological Honor Society
    • Associate membership (Freshman-Sophomore), Regular Membership (Junior-Senior)
    • Fundraising Chair (Sophomore)
    • President-Elect (Junior)
    • President (Senior)
  • Honors Student Association
    • Co-founder/President (Sophomore-Senior)
  • 2 University Choirs
    • First Soprano (Freshman-Senior)
    • Secretary (Sophomore)
    • Vice President (Junior)
    • Co-President (Senior)
    • Group leader for Czech Republic Concert tours spring 2023 & 2024
  • Homeless shelter dinner volunteer - 80 hours (Sophomore-Junior)
  • Scholarship competition interviewer - 26 hours
  • Pre-vet club fundraising volunteer - 24 hours
  • Middle school and High school choir
  • Pre-vet Club member (Freshman-Senior)
  • Service dog training Club member (Freshmen-Junior)
  • Delta Tau Alpha Agricultural Honor Society (Sophomore-Senior)
  • Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society (Junior-Senior)
  • High school marching band/color guard (HS Sophomore-HS Senior)
    • Vice President of Equipment (HS Senior)
  • NHS (HS Senior)
  • Dean's List x 7
  • Phi Kappa Phi Sophomore Award
  • Accepted conference abstract
  • Accepted honors student mental health publication

Non-Animal Employment:
  • Crew member at pizza place (HS Junior) - 475 hours
  • Chemistry/Upper-level science tutor (Sophomore-Senior) - 315 hours
  • Music librarian for choir (Junior-Senior) - 50 hours

LORs:
  • Biology professor/research advisor
  • Choir director
  • Small animal veterinarian/hospital director at a practice I worked for

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Personal Statement: I based my personal statement off of 3 major experiences that form my "why" for a career in vet med. In the first story, I discussed a particularly impactful experience I had with a spirited horse in a lesson program that altered both me as a rider and advocate for animal welfare. Next, I talked about how undergrad destroyed my previous notions of what a vet looks like through exposure to the diverse paths within the profession. Here I talked about how I fell in love with research and how I find it so inspiring that veterinarians work at the frontiers of scientific advancement. The last story involved how I discovered a passion for teaching through tutoring how this related to client education in the profession and how I plan to return to higher education during my career to teach the future of veterinary professionals. I ended out my statement by intertwining all of these stories into my current why.

I wrote a LOT of other essays, but what stood out to me were prompts where I could discuss who I was outside of the science field, my leadership experience, and an ethical dilemma I observed while shadowing at a small animal ER. To future applicants, my advice for the supplemental essays is to be a good storyteller. Talk about the difficult things you observed in practice or something completely unrelated to veterinary medicine that is a core part of who you are today. Show admissions what a great candidate you are through the stories you have experienced!

~Growing up I was always a quiet kid and because of this I was always made to feel like I could not amount to any sort of leadership potential. However, spite is a great motivator 😉 Do all the things just because people think you can't do them. Trust me, you will get so much farther in life for simply getting out of your comfort zone. I truly did not think I would be here on this forum posting my success story after a lifetime of being told I would not get in to vet school for being the "quiet kid" and an impersonal interview resulting in a rejection from my IS. Like many others on this forum, I want to echo that it truly does take only one yes and I would love to help future applicants in the application process by answering any questions, reviewing essays, or just offer a good laugh!

And to the other quiet kiddos out there, you got this, you can be a great leader, and don't forget your spite 😉
Click to expand...
way to go girl! The kid behind you in choir knew you could make it 🙂
 
** LOW GPA APPLICANT **
I never thought in a million years that I would have the opportunity to post here. This is such a surreal experience and I am incredibly grateful and humbled by this experience. I have doubted myself so many times because of my GPA and felt like I was not a worthy applicant. I feel incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity and I do not want to take it for granted. Thank you to every single one of you that I have spoken with. I appreciate you and all the support from this forum. A massive congratulations to everyone who has submitted their application (regardless of the outcome) - make sure to celebrate all your little and big wins!

Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

26, Female, California/USA, Non-traditional, first time applicant

Applied: Midwestern University, Lincoln Memorial University, Western University, Long Island University, The Ohio State University, University of California - Davis, Iowa State University, University of Arizona
Interview Invites: LMU, University of Arizona, Long Island University, Midwestern
Withdrew Application: None
Waiting to hear: WesternU (withdrew my application)
Accepted: LMU, Midwestern, University of Arizona, Iowa State University, and LIU (Off of waitlist)
Waitlisted: LIU
Rejected: UC Davis, Ohio
Attending: TBD!!

Overall GPA: 3.14
Science Prerequisite GPA: Depends on the school and how they calculated it
  • Iowa = 3.42
  • University of Arizona = 3.67
Last 45 GPA: 3.95
CASPER: 4th quartile
Degree(s): Bachelor of Arts, Biology
  • Attended two years of undergrad at the University of Sydney to study Animal & Veterinary Bioscience
  • Transferred to California State University, Northridge (due to the pandemic I couldn't stay in Australia)


Veterinary Experience:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Veterinary Assistant: >5,000 hours
  • Hospital Shift Lead: ~2,000 hours
  • Volunteer with Project Street Vet: ~45 hours
Animal Experience:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Volunteer with animal rescue group: 1,600 hours
Extracurriculars/Awards:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Dean's list (4x at CSUN)
  • International Academic Preparedness program
Non-Animal Employment:

Experience - (hrs)
  • Math tutor at CSUN
  • Receptionist at a vet hospital in Australia
  • Lead scout at the Hungarian Los Angeles scout group
  • Sales Associate at Crunch Fitness in Australia
  • Bakery Sales Associate at Susie cakes
LORs:

Title of recommender (Vet? Manager? Supervisor? Vet tech?)
  • Lead vet at the hospital I work for
  • Associate vet
  • My lecture professor for both genetics and cell biology
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
My personal statement started by discussing my journey through veterinary medicine and how it has evolved. I started by discussing the importances of animal health and welfare, and how I first became interested in it. That eventually evolved into being interested in science and medicine which lead me to seek out opportunities in veterinary medicine. Finally, leading to my interest in preventative care and community outreach. I have many interests in veterinary medicine but I am particularly passionate about supporting low income families and providing service to underrepresented communities. I tied this into my experience living abroad and how those challenges better prepared me to serve my community by developing effective communication and empathy skills. Overall, I am so grateful for my journey and every single person who has helped me through it. I can't wait to start this new chapter and I hope that we can all work together to continue progressing this field in a positive direction! Wherever you are in your journey, just know that I am proud of you and I am here to support you however I can!
 
Last edited:
blackcatgreeneyes said:
I was VERY hesitant to post my stats here, but I have seen so many posts about people wondering if they have enough hours and seriously doubting themselves. Maybe this post will give some hope. I honestly think it's more important to tell a compelling story and to demonstrate what you have learned than it is to simply accumulate hours on paper. Who knows, though, because my IS school disagreed lol. Definitely not saying that you shouldn't get as much diverse experience as possible, just pointing out that my stats weren't the end-all-be-all of my application.
Click to expand...
Hi! I absolutely agree with you and relate a ton. As someone also with way less than the average vet hours I have been in a very similar boat and not even sure if I stand a chance applying. I was rejected by both my in-states early on which was really discouraging. But, I am so happy I did apply and I hope people like us can encourage those even with less than 400 hours to still apply if you otherwise have a strong application!
 
LOW GPA + HOURS
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22 F, Texas, Traditional, First time applicant



Applied: Colorado, UC Davis, Oregon, western, Midwestern, RVC, TAMU, Kansas, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia

Interview Invites: UCD, RVC, MWU

Waiting to hear: UGA, MWU(waitlisted)

Accepted: UC Davis, RVC (5yr)

Attending: UC Davis



Overall GPA: 3.39

Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.4

Last 45 GPA: 3.93



Degree(s): BS Zoology with a minor in chemistry



Veterinary Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 500hrs at a small animal clinic
  • ~1000hrs working at Colorado State veterinary diagnostic lab


Animal Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~500hrs doing 4H in high school
  • 1000hrs starting/training young horses
  • 300hrs wildlife ICU intern


Research:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 200hrs researching mammal behavior in Kenya on a study abroad trip


Extracurriculars/Awards:

Experience - (hrs)

  • Deans list x3
  • On a college equestrian team


Non-Animal Employment:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~100hrs tutoring in high school


LORs:

Title of recommender (Vet? Manager? Supervisor? Vet tech?)

  • Professor (PHD and head of zoology masters program)
  • Director of CSU veterinary diagnostic lab (veterinarian)
  • Lab manager at my current job
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:

For my personal statement, I wrote about my experience growing up in a rural community around horses and my first horse getting diagnosed with EPM. I Tied this to training young horses currently and how these things inspired me/made me a good candidate. I also touched on my study abroad experience in Africa and my desire to work in academia and education outreach to make veterinary medicine more affordable and accessible to third world countries and extreme rural areas.

For my explanation statement, I talked about being adopted by my grandparents and my troubles growing up in a volatile household with abusive parents who were into hard drugs. I explained how my childhood made me resilient to change and more driven towards my goals of going to college (I’m first gen) and eventually becoming a vet.
 
Fizbee03 said:
LOW GPA + HOURS
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22 F, Texas, Traditional, First time applicant



Applied: Colorado, UC Davis, Oregon, western, Midwestern, RVC, TAMU, Kansas, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia

Interview Invites: UCD, RVC, MWU

Waiting to hear: UGA, MWU(waitlisted)

Accepted: UC Davis, RVC (5yr)

Attending: UC Davis



Overall GPA: 3.39

Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.4

Last 45 GPA: 3.93



Degree(s): BS Zoology with a minor in chemistry



Veterinary Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 500hrs at a small animal clinic
  • ~1000hrs working at Colorado State veterinary diagnostic lab


Animal Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~500hrs doing 4H in high school
  • 1000hrs starting/training young horses
  • 300hrs wildlife ICU intern


Research:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 200hrs researching mammal behavior in Kenya on a study abroad trip


Extracurriculars/Awards:

Experience - (hrs)

  • Deans list x3
  • On a college equestrian team


Non-Animal Employment:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~100hrs tutoring in high school


LORs:

Title of recommender (Vet? Manager? Supervisor? Vet tech?)

  • Professor (PHD and head of zoology masters program)
  • Director of CSU veterinary diagnostic lab (veterinarian)
  • Lab manager at my current job
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:

For my personal statement, I wrote about my experience growing up in a rural community around horses and my first horse getting diagnosed with EPM. I Tied this to training young horses currently and how these things inspired me/made me a good candidate. I also touched on my study abroad experience in Africa and my desire to work in academia and education outreach to make veterinary medicine more affordable and accessible to third world countries and extreme rural areas.

For my explanation statement, I talked about being adopted by my grandparents and my troubles growing up in a volatile household with abusive parents who were into hard drugs. I explained how my childhood made me resilient to change and more driven towards my goals of going to college (I’m first gen) and eventually becoming a vet.
Click to expand...
Wow what a cool story!!! Congrats!!
 
Noodles21 said:
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22, F, Ohio/USA, Traditional, First-time applicant

Applied: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University, Purdue University, University of Georgia, North Carolina State University, Colorado State University

Interview Invites: University of Missouri, Mississippi State University, Ohio State University, Michigan State University (declined), Purdue University

Waiting to hear: Mississippi State University, University of Georgia
Rejected: North Carolina State, Colorado State, Ohio State
Waitlisted: Purdue
Accepted: Mizzou!
Attending: TBD

Overall GPA: 4.00
Science Prerequisite GPA: 4.00
Last 45 GPA: 4.00

Degree(s): Graduating this spring with Bachelor of Science in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Medicine Emphasis, Minor in Chemistry, Minor in Biology, Honors Scholar with thesis in tick virus pathogenesis

Veterinary Experience:
  • Job Shadow at small animal specialty hospital (rehab & ER) - 12 hours
  • Veterinary Assistant at small animal GP - 477 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal ER - 112 hours
  • Job Shadow at small animal GP (surgery focused) - 34 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine medical & surgical center + ambulatory services in Arizona - 21 hours
  • Job Shadow at equine hospital & ambulatory services in Cleveland, OH - 40 hours
  • Practical equine handling course - 32 hours
  • Practical food animal handling course - 32 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia - 50 hours
  • Job Shadow Ohio Veterinary Medical Officer for USDA APHIS - 6 hours

Animal Experience:
  • Kennel assistant at dog/cat boarding facility - 364 hours
  • 4 Paws for Ability Secondary Volunteer trainer - 100 hours
  • Kennel assistant at small animal GP - 120 hours
  • Volunteer at humane society - 15 hours
  • Competitive horseback riding over 10 years - 1365 hours (probably an underestimation but did not want to go to crazy with the hours since it is a lot)
  • Barn duty for livestock at my university - 41 hours
  • Study abroad trip to wildlife sanctuary in Australia (ranger work) - 80 hours
  • Advanced Food Animal Reproduction techniques course - 18 hours
  • Volunteer barn assistant and lesson volunteer at therapeutic equine facility - 56 hours
  • Summer barn assistant for animal science center at my university - 450 hours
  • Job shadow ODA Health inspector - 6 hours

Research:
  • Use of novel BPZ protein derivatives for treating T.gondii - 20 hours
  • Tick virus pathogenesis -150 hours
    • Summer research intern
    • Honors Thesis
  • Enrichment research project during study abroad in Australia - 15 hours

Extracurriculars/Awards:
  • Tri-Beta National Biological Honor Society
    • Associate membership (Freshman-Sophomore), Regular Membership (Junior-Senior)
    • Fundraising Chair (Sophomore)
    • President-Elect (Junior)
    • President (Senior)
  • Honors Student Association
    • Co-founder/President (Sophomore-Senior)
  • 2 University Choirs
    • First Soprano (Freshman-Senior)
    • Secretary (Sophomore)
    • Vice President (Junior)
    • Co-President (Senior)
    • Group leader for Czech Republic Concert tours spring 2023 & 2024
  • Homeless shelter dinner volunteer - 80 hours (Sophomore-Junior)
  • Scholarship competition interviewer - 26 hours
  • Pre-vet club fundraising volunteer - 24 hours
  • Middle school and High school choir
  • Pre-vet Club member (Freshman-Senior)
  • Service dog training Club member (Freshmen-Junior)
  • Delta Tau Alpha Agricultural Honor Society (Sophomore-Senior)
  • Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society (Junior-Senior)
  • High school marching band/color guard (HS Sophomore-HS Senior)
    • Vice President of Equipment (HS Senior)
  • NHS (HS Senior)
  • Dean's List x 7
  • Phi Kappa Phi Sophomore Award
  • Accepted conference abstract
  • Accepted honors student mental health publication

Non-Animal Employment:
  • Crew member at pizza place (HS Junior) - 475 hours
  • Chemistry/Upper-level science tutor (Sophomore-Senior) - 315 hours
  • Music librarian for choir (Junior-Senior) - 50 hours

LORs:
  • Biology professor/research advisor
  • Choir director
  • Small animal veterinarian/hospital director at a practice I worked for

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
Personal Statement: I based my personal statement off of 3 major experiences that form my "why" for a career in vet med. In the first story, I discussed a particularly impactful experience I had with a spirited horse in a lesson program that altered both me as a rider and advocate for animal welfare. Next, I talked about how undergrad destroyed my previous notions of what a vet looks like through exposure to the diverse paths within the profession. Here I talked about how I fell in love with research and how I find it so inspiring that veterinarians work at the frontiers of scientific advancement. The last story involved how I discovered a passion for teaching through tutoring how this related to client education in the profession and how I plan to return to higher education during my career to teach the future of veterinary professionals. I ended out my statement by intertwining all of these stories into my current why.

I wrote a LOT of other essays, but what stood out to me were prompts where I could discuss who I was outside of the science field, my leadership experience, and an ethical dilemma I observed while shadowing at a small animal ER. To future applicants, my advice for the supplemental essays is to be a good storyteller. Talk about the difficult things you observed in practice or something completely unrelated to veterinary medicine that is a core part of who you are today. Show admissions what a great candidate you are through the stories you have experienced!

~Growing up I was always a quiet kid and because of this I was always made to feel like I could not amount to any sort of leadership potential. However, spite is a great motivator 😉 Do all the things just because people think you can't do them. Trust me, you will get so much farther in life for simply getting out of your comfort zone. I truly did not think I would be here on this forum posting my success story after a lifetime of being told I would not get in to vet school for being the "quiet kid" and an impersonal interview resulting in a rejection from my IS. Like many others on this forum, I want to echo that it truly does take only one yes and I would love to help future applicants in the application process by answering any questions, reviewing essays, or just offer a good laugh!

And to the other quiet kiddos out there, you got this, you can be a great leader, and don't forget your spite 😉
Click to expand...
Can’t believe your IS rejected you. Their loss! You sound amazing! Congrats 🙂
 
Fizbee03 said:
LOW GPA + HOURS
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22 F, Texas, Traditional, First time applicant



Applied: Colorado, UC Davis, Oregon, western, Midwestern, RVC, TAMU, Kansas, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia

Interview Invites: UCD, RVC, MWU

Waiting to hear: UGA, MWU(waitlisted)

Accepted: UC Davis, RVC (5yr)

Attending: UC Davis



Overall GPA: 3.39

Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.4

Last 45 GPA: 3.93



Degree(s): BS Zoology with a minor in chemistry



Veterinary Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 500hrs at a small animal clinic
  • ~1000hrs working at Colorado State veterinary diagnostic lab


Animal Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~500hrs doing 4H in high school
  • 1000hrs starting/training young horses
  • 300hrs wildlife ICU intern


Research:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 200hrs researching mammal behavior in Kenya on a study abroad trip


Extracurriculars/Awards:

Experience - (hrs)

  • Deans list x3
  • On a college equestrian team


Non-Animal Employment:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~100hrs tutoring in high school


LORs:

Title of recommender (Vet? Manager? Supervisor? Vet tech?)

  • Professor (PHD and head of zoology masters program)
  • Director of CSU veterinary diagnostic lab (veterinarian)
  • Lab manager at my current job
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:

For my personal statement, I wrote about my experience growing up in a rural community around horses and my first horse getting diagnosed with EPM. I Tied this to training young horses currently and how these things inspired me/made me a good candidate. I also touched on my study abroad experience in Africa and my desire to work in academia and education outreach to make veterinary medicine more affordable and accessible to third world countries and extreme rural areas.

For my explanation statement, I talked about being adopted by my grandparents and my troubles growing up in a volatile household with abusive parents who were into hard drugs. I explained how my childhood made me resilient to change and more driven towards my goals of going to college (I’m first gen) and eventually becoming a vet.
Click to expand...

Wow your story is amazing and major congratulations on the acceptances to 2 of the best programs in the world!

I am from Texas as well and honestly there have been so many strange things this cycle with TAMU. I do not know anyone who selected the "I applying to schools outside the United States yes or no" question who ended up being accepted by TAMU which was super weird. I have seen so many super qualified applicants miss out of TAMU interview invites and it has been so strange seeing it this cycle. Regardless, you should be so proud!!!
 
Fizbee03 said:
LOW GPA + HOURS
Age, Gender, State/Country of Residence, Traditional/Non-traditional applicant, # of times you've applied:

22 F, Texas, Traditional, First time applicant



Applied: Colorado, UC Davis, Oregon, western, Midwestern, RVC, TAMU, Kansas, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia

Interview Invites: UCD, RVC, MWU

Waiting to hear: UGA, MWU(waitlisted)

Accepted: UC Davis, RVC (5yr)

Attending: UC Davis



Overall GPA: 3.39

Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.4

Last 45 GPA: 3.93



Degree(s): BS Zoology with a minor in chemistry



Veterinary Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 500hrs at a small animal clinic
  • ~1000hrs working at Colorado State veterinary diagnostic lab


Animal Experience:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~500hrs doing 4H in high school
  • 1000hrs starting/training young horses
  • 300hrs wildlife ICU intern


Research:

Experience - (hrs)

  • 200hrs researching mammal behavior in Kenya on a study abroad trip


Extracurriculars/Awards:

Experience - (hrs)

  • Deans list x3
  • On a college equestrian team


Non-Animal Employment:

Experience - (hrs)

  • ~100hrs tutoring in high school


LORs:

Title of recommender (Vet? Manager? Supervisor? Vet tech?)

  • Professor (PHD and head of zoology masters program)
  • Director of CSU veterinary diagnostic lab (veterinarian)
  • Lab manager at my current job
Essay Questions/Personal Statement:

For my personal statement, I wrote about my experience growing up in a rural community around horses and my first horse getting diagnosed with EPM. I Tied this to training young horses currently and how these things inspired me/made me a good candidate. I also touched on my study abroad experience in Africa and my desire to work in academia and education outreach to make veterinary medicine more affordable and accessible to third world countries and extreme rural areas.

For my explanation statement, I talked about being adopted by my grandparents and my troubles growing up in a volatile household with abusive parents who were into hard drugs. I explained how my childhood made me resilient to change and more driven towards my goals of going to college (I’m first gen) and eventually becoming a vet.
Click to expand...
i have a similar upbringing! i love seeing people similar to me be successful!! HUGE CONGRATS TO YOU!!!
 
thesunshinefuturedogtor said:
Wow your story is amazing and major congratulations on the acceptances to 2 of the best programs in the world!

I am from Texas as well and honestly there have been so many strange things this cycle with TAMU. I do not know anyone who selected the "I applying to schools outside the United States yes or no" question who ended up being accepted by TAMU which was super weird. I have seen so many super qualified applicants miss out of TAMU interview invites and it has been so strange seeing it this cycle. Regardless, you should be so proud!!!
Click to expand...
They had that as a question???!
 
thesunshinefuturedogtor said:
Wow your story is amazing and major congratulations on the acceptances to 2 of the best programs in the world!

I am from Texas as well and honestly there have been so many strange things this cycle with TAMU. I do not know anyone who selected the "I applying to schools outside the United States yes or no" question who ended up being accepted by TAMU which was super weird. I have seen so many super qualified applicants miss out of TAMU interview invites and it has been so strange seeing it this cycle. Regardless, you should be so proud!!!
Click to expand...
That is so weird, I honestly think TAMU is butt hurt cause I went out of state for undergrad tbh. I didn’t even get an interview🥲 but thank you so much!!
 
!!!LOW VET HOURS!!!!!

21, female, Ohio, traditional, 1st-time applicant 🙂


Applied: LSU, Washington State, UPenn, LIU, Ohio State
Interview Invites: LIU
Waiting to hear: NONE
Accepted: LIU
Attending: LIU!!!! GO SHARKS!!🦈

Overall GPA: 3.68
Science Prerequisite GPA: 3.57
Last 45 GPA: unsure, but probably a 3.4ish😅

GRE: did not take it!
CASPER: 75th percentile

Degree(s): Bachelor of Science (graduating this spring!) in Marine Science/Biology (double major)

Veterinary Experience:
Internship at a small animal clinic - 128 hrs

Animal Experience:
Volunteer at a zoo - 825 hrs

Research:
Sediment Geochemistry Research - 180 hrs in the lab, 490 at sea
Loggerhead Shrike Population Biology Research - 415 hrs

Extracurriculars/Awards:
NRHH - VP of Recruitment - 60 hrs
RA Council - 80 hrs
German Club - 90 hrs
Dean's List for a few semesters
Spivey Scholarship
Honors College
University Scholar Award
National Honor Society (HS)
Rotary Club Scholarship

Non-animal employment:
Campus Tour Guide - 190 hrs
Conference Assistant - 240 hrs
Resident Advisor (RA) - 1800 hrs (I've been doing it for 3 years lol)
Horticulture Team Member at a zoo - 450 hrs
Cracker Barrel Retail Associate - 750 hrs

LORs:
Veterinarian
Professor/Thesis Advisor/Lab Manager
Supervisor at on-campus job

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
--I wrote about how I've always wanted to make a difference in the world, but I wasn't sure how. I first turned to marine science to help with climate change, but YEARNED for anatomy/micro/cell - based science, so I double-majored. After interning with a veterinarian, I found exactly what I was looking for and knew this is how I can make a difference - for both people and their pets. And I talked about my work-life balance with 3 jobs in undergrad and said I was ready for the challenge of vet school LOL
--They had one essay question about diversity, and I talked about my experiences in my hometown, traveling, and at an out-of-state college

ANYWAYS nice to meet y'all!! I didn't know this forum existed and I'm SO happy I found it!! Vet school felt super out of reach - I was fully ready for rejections and to try again next cycle, but I somehow got lucky 🙂)) Good luck to everyone!!
 
23F, Florida, Traditional, 2-time applicant, **LOW GPA APPLICANT**

Applied: UF, UofA, Michigan, Mississippi, LIU, LSU, LMU, Iowa (alternate)
Interview Invites: UF, UofA(waitlisted, withdrawing), Michigan (declined), Mississippi
Waiting to hear:
Accepted: UF, Mississippi
Attending: UF (my IS)

Overall GPA: 3.07
Science Prerequisite GPA: 2.8
Last 45 GPA: 3.08
Graduate GPA (12 credits): 4.0

NOTE: I also retook some courses and for schools that replaced them my GPAs ranged from 3.3 -3.6 for all of them

GRE (Q/V/W): didn't take

Degree(s): Bachelors in Biology + Minor in Diversity and Social Inequality
  • Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Sciences (did the accelerated curriculum with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign)

Veterinary Experience: (unlicensed tech and assistant)
  • ER vet tech (mostly small animals, some exotics/pocket pets (240 hrs)
  • GP vet tech (mostly small animals, some exotics/pocket pets): 925 hrs
  • PT Rehabilitation assistant (small animal): 592 hrs
  • GP vet assistant (one clinic, small animal): 6k hrs


Animal Experience:
  • Animal care volunteer @ a Ranch ( Equine, food animal, rabbits) - 140hrs
  • Intern at wildlife refuge (Zoo animal, exotics, avian, food animal) - 338 hrs


Research:
Helping a PhD student with her project on snakes - (16 hrs)

Extracurriculars/Awards:
I had a total of 5 leadership roles throughout undergrad- this was about 2k hours combined.
General member hours of the ones I didn't specify: around 600
Clubs:
  • A pre-health club
  • Pre vet club
  • Wetlands club
  • Dance club
  • Fundraising club for children's hospital (75 hrs)
  • Spanish honor society in HS (76hrs)
  • Dance team member in HS ( 1680hrs)

Additional stuff:
  • K-12 science fair judge for 2 years (14 hrs)
  • TA in HS for Spanish classes (532 hrs)
  • Nursery/kids church leader (3k hours)

Awards/Achievements:
  • Deans list in Graduate certificate (one semester total)
  • Scholarship for grad certificate
  • Deans list in undergrad (one semester total)
  • Bright futures scholarship for undergrad
  • A low-income scholarship for undergrad that I received in HS and had a mentor for.

Non-Animal Employment:
Commercial cleaner- 13k hours

LORs:
3 vets I worked with + one was a practice owner
2 professors
1 professor/vet (who was my prof)

Essay Questions/Personal Statement:
I wrote about being an immigrant from a low-income family. My dad's dream growing up was to be a vet and he never got to due to there being no vet schools from where we are from. I didn't know about this dream until we were talking in the car one day - getting ready to tell him I had chosen to become a vet when he told me about his lost dream first. It felt meant to be. I went through a lot of adversity in my journey, mental health problems, unexpected losses in the family, etc that was brought up in my explanation statement as well. I also wrote a lot about helping my parents (who are janitors) with work since I was 14.

Notes:
This is unreal. My first cycle I was denied from every school without an interview, I then skipped a cycle and this cycle was so different. Getting 4 interviews, let alone getting into my IS (which is commonly known to be a HIGH GPA school) is still insane to me. This dream felt so unattainable for so long. And its real. Im here. I made it. I belong. Im still in so much shock, and it will probably be that way for a long time. I have yet to tell so many of my friends, and my partner (we will only be 2 hours away), this is just so crazy.
 
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