What are my chances?

[SkiOtter]

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Thank you. I know there are some schools that only require physics 1, honestly can't even remember off the top of my head but I did look into it.

Good good
I had no clue but I know some do require both

 

[spark14]

Hi, I'm a first time applicant, having a bit of a stressful time over here...

Graduated in 2015 with B.S. in marine biology

Cum GPA: 3.21
Last 45: 3.47
Science: 3.40

Verbal GRE: 162
Quant GRE: 156
Analytical: 4.0

Vet Experience:
2960 hr small animal vet tech
70 hr large animal/equine volunteer

Animal:
60 hr wildlife center exotic animal caretaker

Research:
1 year intern in coral reef research lab

Work/Extracurricular
Middle and high school math/science teacher
Captain of ultimate frisbee team

I realize my GPA isn't very competitive (messed up freshman year), but hopefully my GRE and vet experience will help me out a little. I have UF, Western, NC State, Oregon, Oklahoma, Colorado, Washington, Tufts, LSU and Ross on my list. I know its a lot and I'll probably parse it down later, but what do y'all think?

In-state is California

 

[DVMoftheFuture]

Hi, I'm a first time applicant, having a bit of a stressful time over here...

Graduated in 2015 with B.S. in marine biology

Cum GPA: 3.21
Last 45: 3.47
Science: 3.40

Verbal GRE: 162
Quant GRE: 156
Analytical: 4.0

Vet Experience:
2960 hr small animal vet tech
70 hr large animal/equine volunteer

Animal:
60 hr wildlife center exotic animal caretaker

Research:
1 year intern in coral reef research lab

Work/Extracurricular
Middle and high school math/science teacher
Captain of ultimate frisbee team

I realize my GPA isn't very competitive (messed up freshman year), but hopefully my GRE and vet experience will help me out a little. I have UF, Western, NC State, Oregon, Oklahoma, Colorado, Washington, Tufts, LSU and Ross on my list. I know its a lot and I'll probably parse it down later, but what do y'all think?

In-state is California

How are you picking the schools to which you are applying? You've managed to pick some schools that are very GPA-focused or that are very competitive due to the total number of OOS apps (NCSU, Oregon, CSU, WSU, and Tufts). You might have better luck at Michigan State (d/n consider GPA as long as you are above a 3.0), Illinois (GPA is considered for interview offers but not final decisions), and schools that only consider last 45 GPA or weight it more heavily (LSU, UMN, Kansas, Iowa).

 

[battie]

I have UF, Western, NC State, Oregon, Oklahoma, Colorado, Washington, Tufts, LSU and Ross on my list. I know its a lot and I'll probably parse it down later, but what do y'all think?

Oregon, Colorado, and Louisiana are probably reaches here with your GPAs, unfortunately. Oregon only takes less than 20 OOS students. LSU only interviews the top 150 OOS students. Colorado has 14 applicants per OOS seat and, last I heard, they follow upward trends.

 

[GreatDaneLove]

I realize my GPA isn't very competitive (messed up freshman year), but hopefully my GRE and vet experience will help me out a little. I have UF, Western, NC State, Oregon, Oklahoma, Colorado, Washington, Tufts, LSU and Ross on my list. I know its a lot and I'll probably parse it down later, but what do y'all think?

I don't think you qualify to apply to NC State as an OOS candidate. They require a 3.4 for cGPA, Required Course GPA and Last 45. If the 3.21 is your cGPA that you'll apply with this cycle they wouldn't consider you, unfortunately.

 

[MixedAnimals77]

Hi, I'm a first time applicant, having a bit of a stressful time over here...

Graduated in 2015 with B.S. in marine biology

Cum GPA: 3.21
Last 45: 3.47
Science: 3.40

Verbal GRE: 162
Quant GRE: 156
Analytical: 4.0

Vet Experience:
2960 hr small animal vet tech
70 hr large animal/equine volunteer

Animal:
60 hr wildlife center exotic animal caretaker

Research:
1 year intern in coral reef research lab

Work/Extracurricular
Middle and high school math/science teacher
Captain of ultimate frisbee team

I realize my GPA isn't very competitive (messed up freshman year), but hopefully my GRE and vet experience will help me out a little. I have UF, Western, NC State, Oregon, Oklahoma, Colorado, Washington, Tufts, LSU and Ross on my list. I know its a lot and I'll probably parse it down later, but what do y'all think?

In-state is California

Oregon, Colorado, and Louisiana are probably reaches here with your GPAs, unfortunately. Oregon only takes less than 20 OOS students. LSU only interviews the top 150 OOS students. Colorado has 14 applicants per OOS seat and, last I heard, they follow upward trends.

Also CO is unlikely to admit students with below a 3.4 Gpa if I remember correctly. It's on their website somewhere. Unsure if that cum or not but the way written makes me think cum.

 

[futurevet_11]

Hey guys. First time applicant, female 21, NY Resident, UGA student.
So, I'm not even going to lie, my grades are crap and I know. I transferred and have done better since, but I had a super rough time at my first school because of some anxiety/depression stuff that I have since shaken. I don't like to use it as an excuse, but while I was there I basically gave up and my grades obviously reflect that. I'm going into my senior year now, and while things are better, my grades have suffered and I keep going through phases of "why am I even bothering? I'm obviously not going to get in," but here are my stats anyways.

B.S Biological sciences- graduating May 2019
-I still have some pre reqs to take and I'm taking them in my senior year (biochem, orgo 2, genetics)

Cum GPA: 3.30
SCI GPA: ~3.00 ish, depending on the calculation
Last 45 GPA: 3.20-3.30

GRE- Q153/V154/5.5

Vet experience:
1200 hours (maybe more - I don't have the exact number) between various hospitals as a shadow/unpaid vet assistant.
About 200 hours are equine hours, another 200 in livestock, 250 in exotics, and the rest in small animal med.

Non animal employment:
About 900 hours working as an infant room lead teacher at a daycare.
200 hours or so as a bartender

Animal experience:
-I was a zookeeper for a summer (500 hours)
-I assisted at an equine therapy facility (100 hours)
- Humane society/other shelters
- I studied abroad in South Africa, so I have various exotic/wildlife hours from the facility (cheetahs, ostriches, etc)
- Equine repro/foaling experience (60 hours)

Research Experience:
- I work for 1.5 years in a canine DMD colony (I don't remember the hours)
- Currently just starting a new research project with one of my professors.

Extracurricular and leadership roles:
- I was the service chair for a service sorority for one semester prior to transferring.
- I was the scribe of Alpha Zeta professional fraternity for one semester prior to transferring.
-I was an active pre-vet club member for 2 years
- Active member of a Greek sorority for 2 years (current)
- Executive of Marketing for a community service crafting club (current)
- Various community service experiences.
- VP of PR for Sigma Alpha Lamda (current)
I'm not sure if I'm forgetting to give any information, but I probably am.
I'm applying as large animal interest.

These are the schools that are on my list:
Cornell (Obviously a long shot but it's my in state)
Iowa
Midwerstern
Washington
Kansas
Illinois
UGA (my undergrad)
Colorado (Obviously also a long shot but I would just love to live here)
Ohio
Western
Michigan
SGU
Ross

A lot of people tell you not to apply to OOS or the island schools due to finances, but finances are not an issue for me, so that doesn't really affect my decision making process. If theres any schools you think I should add, let me know!
Some of them are clearly a reach but I've been trying, for the most part, to pick schools that seem to have the best chances for me to get in. I'm preparing to just have to go to get my masters because of my terrible GPA but I don't know what I would go for so I'm super lost. I feel like I'm just wasting my time at this point so any help/advice/words of wisdom would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[SkiOtter]

OSU

There’s three of these

MSU

And two of these

 

[futurevet_11]

There’s three of these

And two of these

My bad! I just copied from my notes and wasn't thinking, Michigan and ohio!

 

[SkiOtter]

My bad! I just copied from my notes and wasn't thinking, Michigan and ohio!

If you don’t have above a 3.0 in your prereq gpa for MSU, don’t bother applying because that’s their minimum. If you meet the minimum of 3.0 in prereq and last 36 gpa, then after that they don’t care about gpa at all. If you have lower, your app is tossed out.

 

[battie]

Hey guys. First time applicant, female 21, NY Resident, UGA student.
So, I'm not even going to lie, my grades are crap and I know. I transferred and have done better since, but I had a super rough time at my first school because of some anxiety/depression stuff that I have since shaken. I don't like to use it as an excuse, but while I was there I basically gave up and my grades obviously reflect that. I'm going into my senior year now, and while things are better, my grades have suffered and I keep going through phases of "why am I even bothering? I'm obviously not going to get in," but here are my stats anyways.

B.S Biological sciences- graduating May 2019
-I still have some pre reqs to take and I'm taking them in my senior year (biochem, orgo 2, genetics)

Cum GPA: 3.30
SCI GPA: ~3.00 ish, depending on the calculation
Last 45 GPA: 3.20-3.30

GRE- Q153/V154/5.5

Vet experience:
1200 hours (maybe more - I don't have the exact number) between various hospitals as a shadow/unpaid vet assistant.
About 200 hours are equine hours, another 200 in livestock, 250 in exotics, and the rest in small animal med.

Non animal employment:
About 900 hours working as an infant room lead teacher at a daycare.
200 hours or so as a bartender

Animal experience:
-I was a zookeeper for a summer (500 hours)
-I assisted at an equine therapy facility (100 hours)
- Humane society/other shelters
- I studied abroad in South Africa, so I have various exotic/wildlife hours from the facility (cheetahs, ostriches, etc)
- Equine repro/foaling experience (60 hours)

Research Experience:
- I work for 1.5 years in a canine DMD colony (I don't remember the hours)
- Currently just starting a new research project with one of my professors.

Extracurricular and leadership roles:
- I was the service chair for a service sorority for one semester prior to transferring.
- I was the scribe of Alpha Zeta professional fraternity for one semester prior to transferring.
-I was an active pre-vet club member for 2 years
- Active member of a Greek sorority for 2 years (current)
- Executive of Marketing for a community service crafting club (current)
- Various community service experiences.
- VP of PR for Sigma Alpha Lamda (current)
I'm not sure if I'm forgetting to give any information, but I probably am.
I'm applying as large animal interest.

These are the schools that are on my list:
Cornell (Obviously a long shot but it's my in state)
Iowa
Midwerstern
Washington
Kansas
Illinois
UGA (my undergrad)
Colorado (Obviously also a long shot but I would just love to live here)
Ohio
Western
Michigan
SGU
Ross

A lot of people tell you not to apply to OOS or the island schools due to finances, but finances are not an issue for me, so that doesn't really affect my decision making process. If theres any schools you think I should add, let me know!
Some of them are clearly a reach but I've been trying, for the most part, to pick schools that seem to have the best chances for me to get in. I'm preparing to just have to go to get my masters because of my terrible GPA but I don't know what I would go for so I'm super lost. I feel like I'm just wasting my time at this point so any help/advice/words of wisdom would be appreciated. Thanks!

So your stats are relatively similar to mine as far as grades go, and your experiences are better. I am at Illinois and do recommend you apply to Illinois and your in-state (can't say no to that in-state tuition chance!). Kansas is also not a bad idea.

 

[MixedAnimals77]

Also CO is unlikely to admit students with below a 3.4 Gpa if I remember correctly. It's on their website somewhere. Unsure if that cum or not but the way written makes me think cum.

Hey guys. First time applicant, female 21, NY Resident, UGA student.
So, I'm not even going to lie, my grades are crap and I know. I transferred and have done better since, but I had a super rough time at my first school because of some anxiety/depression stuff that I have since shaken. I don't like to use it as an excuse, but while I was there I basically gave up and my grades obviously reflect that. I'm going into my senior year now, and while things are better, my grades have suffered and I keep going through phases of "why am I even bothering? I'm obviously not going to get in," but here are my stats anyways.

B.S Biological sciences- graduating May 2019
-I still have some pre reqs to take and I'm taking them in my senior year (biochem, orgo 2, genetics)

Cum GPA: 3.30
SCI GPA: ~3.00 ish, depending on the calculation
Last 45 GPA: 3.20-3.30

GRE- Q153/V154/5.5

Vet experience:
1200 hours (maybe more - I don't have the exact number) between various hospitals as a shadow/unpaid vet assistant.
About 200 hours are equine hours, another 200 in livestock, 250 in exotics, and the rest in small animal med.

Non animal employment:
About 900 hours working as an infant room lead teacher at a daycare.
200 hours or so as a bartender

Animal experience:
-I was a zookeeper for a summer (500 hours)
-I assisted at an equine therapy facility (100 hours)
- Humane society/other shelters
- I studied abroad in South Africa, so I have various exotic/wildlife hours from the facility (cheetahs, ostriches, etc)
- Equine repro/foaling experience (60 hours)

Research Experience:
- I work for 1.5 years in a canine DMD colony (I don't remember the hours)
- Currently just starting a new research project with one of my professors.

Extracurricular and leadership roles:
- I was the service chair for a service sorority for one semester prior to transferring.
- I was the scribe of Alpha Zeta professional fraternity for one semester prior to transferring.
-I was an active pre-vet club member for 2 years
- Active member of a Greek sorority for 2 years (current)
- Executive of Marketing for a community service crafting club (current)
- Various community service experiences.
- VP of PR for Sigma Alpha Lamda (current)
I'm not sure if I'm forgetting to give any information, but I probably am.
I'm applying as large animal interest.

These are the schools that are on my list:
Cornell (Obviously a long shot but it's my in state)
Iowa
Midwerstern
Washington
Kansas
Illinois
UGA (my undergrad)
Colorado (Obviously also a long shot but I would just love to live here)
Ohio
Western
Michigan
SGU
Ross

A lot of people tell you not to apply to OOS or the island schools due to finances, but finances are not an issue for me, so that doesn't really affect my decision making process. If theres any schools you think I should add, let me know!
Some of them are clearly a reach but I've been trying, for the most part, to pick schools that seem to have the best chances for me to get in. I'm preparing to just have to go to get my masters because of my terrible GPA but I don't know what I would go for so I'm super lost. I feel like I'm just wasting my time at this point so any help/advice/words of wisdom would be appreciated. Thanks!

See my post above. I'd encourage you to save money and apply smartly and not apply to CO just because you think you'd love to live here.

 

[mdog20]

Thoughts on Illinois vs. Kansas as far as odds of getting in as out of state? (I am aware this is very vague with no stats, just in general...)

 

[SkiOtter]

Thoughts on Illinois vs. Kansas as far as odds of getting in as out of state? (I am aware this is very vague with no stats, just in general...)

Both accept a good amount of OOS students. (Might’ve been something like 60 seats?)

 

[GayVet]

First time applicant, male 21, OH Resident

Had some battles with severe depression, anxiety and ADD, including a medical withdrawal, that I now have under control, will talk about in explanation statement

B.S Biology with Honors Graduating Fall 2018

Cum GPA: 3.44
SCI GPA: ~3.27 (includes math, Orgo 2 and Biochem are Cs)
Last 45 GPA: 3.43 with an up trend last semester being a 3.71

GRE- Q151(43%)/V157(76%)/4.5(82%)

Vet experience:
- Veterinary Assistant at a very large Emergency/Specialty Hospital (3000hrs)
-Shadowing a Veterinarian at a small 2 doctor practice (624hrs)
-Observing orthopedic surgeries including TPLO, Total Hip replacement, TTA, fracture repairs (80hrs)
-Observing a board certified radiologist (80hrs)
-Shadowing at a Equine hospital and ambulatory services (100hrs)
-Shadowing a large animal vet on field calls (50hrs)

Animal experience:
Volunteer at Humane Society (240hrs)
Maine Marine Field Ecology (72hrs)

Research Experience:
Worked on a Distal Femoral Osteotomy Long Term Outcome Study with a board certified Orthopedic Surgeon - 128 hours
Working on a clean orthopedic Cephalexin Study with same surgeon - 32 hours

Extracurriculars:
-Member of College Democrats
-Member of Gay-Straight Alliance
-Member of Pre-Vet Club
-Member of The Secular Student Alliance
-Participated in March For Science in D.C.
-Participated in March For Our Lives in Cleveland
-Marched in Cleveland Pride
-Manage My Own Brokerage Account through Robinhood with a 201.35% increase in value in two years (1600hrs managing account, making trades, reading news on stocks, etc..)
-I have played violin since 5th grade and still practice at least a couple hours a week
-Intramural Soccer

Awards:
-Scholarship for Excellence
-Honors College Scholarship
-Graduation with Honors
-Cum Laude Graduation
-Dean's List Fall 2015
-Eagle Scout

High School
-Diploma with Honors
-Top 25 Graduate (Rank 11)
-4.44 GPA
-4 Year Academic Letter Recipient
-Boy Scouts (Earned Eagle Scout)
-National Honors Society
-JV and Varsity Soccer, also played in private club during spring and summer

These are the schools that are on my list:
-Cornell
-Iowa State
-Michigan State
-Midwestern
-Ohio State
-Oregon State (I know a long shot out of state but I have family nearby)
-Purdue
-University of Illinois
-U of Minnesota
-U of Missouri
-Virginia-Maryland
-Washington State

Don't recommend the island schools to me as it is still technically illegal by imprisonment to be gay there. 🙁

 

[Georgethecat]

Hey guys. First time applicant, female 21, NY Resident, UGA student.
So, I'm not even going to lie, my grades are crap and I know. I transferred and have done better since, but I had a super rough time at my first school because of some anxiety/depression stuff that I have since shaken. I don't like to use it as an excuse, but while I was there I basically gave up and my grades obviously reflect that. I'm going into my senior year now, and while things are better, my grades have suffered and I keep going through phases of "why am I even bothering? I'm obviously not going to get in," but here are my stats anyways.

B.S Biological sciences- graduating May 2019
-I still have some pre reqs to take and I'm taking them in my senior year (biochem, orgo 2, genetics)

Cum GPA: 3.30
SCI GPA: ~3.00 ish, depending on the calculation
Last 45 GPA: 3.20-3.30

GRE- Q153/V154/5.5

Vet experience:
1200 hours (maybe more - I don't have the exact number) between various hospitals as a shadow/unpaid vet assistant.
About 200 hours are equine hours, another 200 in livestock, 250 in exotics, and the rest in small animal med.

Non animal employment:
About 900 hours working as an infant room lead teacher at a daycare.
200 hours or so as a bartender

Animal experience:
-I was a zookeeper for a summer (500 hours)
-I assisted at an equine therapy facility (100 hours)
- Humane society/other shelters
- I studied abroad in South Africa, so I have various exotic/wildlife hours from the facility (cheetahs, ostriches, etc)
- Equine repro/foaling experience (60 hours)

Research Experience:
- I work for 1.5 years in a canine DMD colony (I don't remember the hours)
- Currently just starting a new research project with one of my professors.

Extracurricular and leadership roles:
- I was the service chair for a service sorority for one semester prior to transferring.
- I was the scribe of Alpha Zeta professional fraternity for one semester prior to transferring.
-I was an active pre-vet club member for 2 years
- Active member of a Greek sorority for 2 years (current)
- Executive of Marketing for a community service crafting club (current)
- Various community service experiences.
- VP of PR for Sigma Alpha Lamda (current)
I'm not sure if I'm forgetting to give any information, but I probably am.
I'm applying as large animal interest.

These are the schools that are on my list:
Cornell (Obviously a long shot but it's my in state)
Iowa
Midwerstern
Washington
Kansas
Illinois
UGA (my undergrad)
Colorado (Obviously also a long shot but I would just love to live here)
Ohio
Western
Michigan
SGU
Ross

A lot of people tell you not to apply to OOS or the island schools due to finances, but finances are not an issue for me, so that doesn't really affect my decision making process. If theres any schools you think I should add, let me know!
Some of them are clearly a reach but I've been trying, for the most part, to pick schools that seem to have the best chances for me to get in. I'm preparing to just have to go to get my masters because of my terrible GPA but I don't know what I would go for so I'm super lost. I feel like I'm just wasting my time at this point so any help/advice/words of wisdom would be appreciated. Thanks!

For UGA, call Parker in Admissions and see if you can make an appointment to discuss your application. He might be able to advise on if a masters degree would help strengthen your application. UGA does have a masters program that would be applicable. He might also be able to advise on how such a program could help your career options if you eventually choose a different path from vet school.

Focus on doing as well as you can this last year in undergrad. Not sure it will affect your application having 3 pre-req's outstanding. Will you be taking those this fall or in the spring? I think UGA has you send your fall grades in for consideration, even though it won't change your VMCAS calculated gpa's. UGA only considers your math/science pre-req's for your science gpa.

Make sure whoever is writing your recommendations feels comfortable writing you a strong letter of recommendation. Consider using the explanation statement (not sure what exactly that is called in VMCAS these days) to explain your health issues and how you have overcome these issues and gone forward to be successful academically (cause a big concern for vet schools is whether or not applicants can handle the academic load).

This has mainly been targeted at UGA, but I'd take the advice others have given about carefully targeting your applications towards schools where you stand a better chance of getting in. Even though finances are not a concern, getting rejected isn't fun 🙁 CSU is probably not worth the pain and aggravation of applying. Probably the same for WSU, double check for their info on tiers and what the likelihood of getting an interview are with your current stats. I'd keep Cornell on the list just cause it's your IS. Maybe consider adding LMU to the list. Your current stats are in line with their reported accepted student stats for the class of 2021 on the AAVMC website. Best of luck to you!

AAVMC | Admitted Student Statistics

 

[Egary66]

First time applicant, male 31, DE Resident

First degree was in chemical engineering then worked in corporate finance for ~7 years before deciding that life isn’t for me. I’m applying in the of fall 2019 so I just want to see if I should be adding anything or if I’m on the right track.

B.S Pre-Vet Med and Animal Biosciences Graduating May 2020 from University of Delaware

Cum GPA: 3.95 from UD
Chem Eng - GPA haha let’s just ignore that hopefully. Enjoyed college a tad much my first time around 🙂

GRE - taking next summer, need time to rack up more vet hours and develop good relationships

Vet experience:
- Veterinary Tech Assistant at a SA (will have ~700 hours by application time)
-Shadowing a large Veterinarian Speciality Hospital (~200 hours by app)
-Shadowing a large animal vet on field calls (50hrs)

Animal experience:
Volunteer at Humane Society (70 hours by app)
Animal Experienxe International - 2 week trip to Guatemala for Wildlife Reserve Vet treatments

Extracurriculars (while at Drexel for BS ChemE)
-Member Tau Kappa Epsilon
-IFC President
-Board Member for West Chester Weightlifting

Awards:
-Scholarship for Excellence
-Dean's List Spring 2018

These are the schools that are on my list:
-UPenn (top choice) (most vets I know and volunteer experience have been with UPenn grads. I’m developing very strong relationships with UPenn vets)
-Cornell
-Ohio State
-Virginia-Maryland
-UC Davis
-Tufts

 

[supershorty]

First time applicant, male 31, DE Resident

First degree was in chemical engineering then worked in corporate finance for ~7 years before deciding that life isn’t for me. I’m applying in the of fall 2019 so I just want to see if I should be adding anything or if I’m on the right track.

B.S Pre-Vet Med and Animal Biosciences Graduating May 2020 from University of Delaware

Cum GPA: 3.95 from UD
Chem Eng - GPA haha let’s just ignore that hopefully. Enjoyed college a tad much my first time around 🙂

GRE - taking next summer, need time to rack up more vet hours and develop good relationships

Vet experience:
- Veterinary Tech Assistant at a SA (will have ~700 hours by application time)
-Shadowing a large Veterinarian Speciality Hospital (~200 hours by app)
-Shadowing a large animal vet on field calls (50hrs)

Animal experience:
Volunteer at Humane Society (70 hours by app)
Animal Experienxe International - 2 week trip to Guatemala for Wildlife Reserve Vet treatments

Extracurriculars (while at Drexel for BS ChemE)
-Member Tau Kappa Epsilon
-IFC President
-Board Member for West Chester Weightlifting

Awards:
-Scholarship for Excellence
-Dean's List Spring 2018

These are the schools that are on my list:
-UPenn (top choice) (most vets I know and volunteer experience have been with UPenn grads. I’m developing very strong relationships with UPenn vets)
-Cornell
-Ohio State
-Virginia-Maryland
-UC Davis
-Tufts

Keep in mind that your cGPA includes EVERYTHING. If your previous grades are low, you may want to look at schools that put more emphasis on last 45 credits.

 

[Egary66]

Keep in mind that your cGPA includes EVERYTHING. If your previous grades are low, you may want to look at schools that put more emphasis on last 45 credits.

Even if the GPA from the first degree will be 8 years old at the time of application?

 

[MixedAnimals77]

First time applicant, male 31, DE Resident

First degree was in chemical engineering then worked in corporate finance for ~7 years before deciding that life isn’t for me. I’m applying in the of fall 2019 so I just want to see if I should be adding anything or if I’m on the right track.

B.S Pre-Vet Med and Animal Biosciences Graduating May 2020 from University of Delaware

Cum GPA: 3.95 from UD
Chem Eng - GPA haha let’s just ignore that hopefully. Enjoyed college a tad much my first time around 🙂

GRE - taking next summer, need time to rack up more vet hours and develop good relationships

Vet experience:
- Veterinary Tech Assistant at a SA (will have ~700 hours by application time)
-Shadowing a large Veterinarian Speciality Hospital (~200 hours by app)
-Shadowing a large animal vet on field calls (50hrs)

Animal experience:
Volunteer at Humane Society (70 hours by app)
Animal Experienxe International - 2 week trip to Guatemala for Wildlife Reserve Vet treatments

Extracurriculars (while at Drexel for BS ChemE)
-Member Tau Kappa Epsilon
-IFC President
-Board Member for West Chester Weightlifting

Awards:
-Scholarship for Excellence
-Dean's List Spring 2018

These are the schools that are on my list:
-UPenn (top choice) (most vets I know and volunteer experience have been with UPenn grads. I’m developing very strong relationships with UPenn vets)
-Cornell
-Ohio State
-Virginia-Maryland
-UC Davis
-Tufts

You have decent grades since going back. I would look at schools that are on the less expensive side as an OSS student when you go to apply as well. As far as if the schools consider all the grades it will be school dependent so do your research thoroughly first. One thing that I think as long as you explain well is why vet med and why now? You have been in fields that pay far better that what you will make going forward and to some this may appear as a commitment issue, but if you can articulate your reasons well I think you'll be fine.

 

[Egary66]

You have decent grades since going back. I would look at schools that are on the less expensive side as an OSS student when you go to apply as well. As far as if the schools consider all the grades it will be school dependent so do your research thoroughly first. One thing that I think as long as you explain well is why vet med and why now? You have been in fields that pay far better that what you will make going forward and to some this may appear as a commitment issue, but if you can articulate your reasons well I think you'll be fine.

I appreciate the advice. Cost isn't a concern to me. I have that all handled which is beneficial to me. I did set up a campus tour of UPenn with the Vet School admissions next month (I live about 35 mins from Philly so it's easy), so that will be a question I could raise. I'll definitely check out how other schools view previous schooling experiences and GPA's carried at those institutions.

Well that honestly is the easiest question I could possibly answer. I'm passionate about the field. The only reason I was involved with Engineering and Finance was for the money. There were no goals or vision attached to those fields for me. I was utterly unhappy and could not see myself continuing in either of those fields long term.

I wanted to get into medicine my first time through college, but was persuaded not to by my father (human medicine surgeon). I did research in my mid 20's for Vet School, but circumstances did not line up. I re-approached it late last year and decided to go all in and have not looked back since. I have never felt more energetic, alive, and passionate since jumping into this journey. I actually feel like I'm contributing to society, to something bigger than myself. I'm not in this for the money - I want to make an realizable impact in peoples' lives. That was not at all possible for me in my previous fields.

I can't explain "why now" as easily. It's hard to explain the mental anguish one can experience while working in corporate america. Just imagine working on your computer 8-12 hours a day doing the same general thing everyday...for years. It's mind numbing. And that is one of the "perks" of those careers. I wouldn't harp on this during any interviews with Vet Schools too much because it's too negative of a feeling. I'd focus more on the positive aspects of my decision and be forward looking.

I could write more about why (and have for scholarship essays and writing rough drafts of my personal statement).

Thanks again!

 

[kiiwii]

I want to know where would be best to apply with a low gpa (struggling to have a 3.0) but have a lot of experience

 

[MixedAnimals77]

I want to know where would be best to apply with a low gpa (struggling to have a 3.0) but have a lot of experience

Please check out the what are my chances thread pinned at the top. There has been alot of discussion and suggestions on good schools for that

 

[mht2k3]

I appreciate the advice. Cost isn't a concern to me. I have that all handled which is beneficial to me. I did set up a campus tour of UPenn with the Vet School admissions next month (I live about 35 mins from Philly so it's easy), so that will be a question I could raise. I'll definitely check out how other schools view previous schooling experiences and GPA's carried at those institutions.

Well that honestly is the easiest question I could possibly answer. I'm passionate about the field. The only reason I was involved with Engineering and Finance was for the money. There were no goals or vision attached to those fields for me. I was utterly unhappy and could not see myself continuing in either of those fields long term.

I wanted to get into medicine my first time through college, but was persuaded not to by my father (human medicine surgeon). I did research in my mid 20's for Vet School, but circumstances did not line up. I re-approached it late last year and decided to go all in and have not looked back since. I have never felt more energetic, alive, and passionate since jumping into this journey. I actually feel like I'm contributing to society, to something bigger than myself. I'm not in this for the money - I want to make an realizable impact in peoples' lives. That was not at all possible for me in my previous fields.

I can't explain "why now" as easily. It's hard to explain the mental anguish one can experience while working in corporate america. Just imagine working on your computer 8-12 hours a day doing the same general thing everyday...for years. It's mind numbing. And that is one of the "perks" of those careers. I wouldn't harp on this during any interviews with Vet Schools too much because it's too negative of a feeling. I'd focus more on the positive aspects of my decision and be forward looking.

I could write more about why (and have for scholarship essays and writing rough drafts of my personal statement).

Thanks again!

While not the same story, I'm also a 2nd career type person (first time around was software development) that had a high postbac GPA but not a competitive undergrad gpa. I forget the exact numbers but I think my first undergrad gpa was somewhere around 3.0 and total cGPA was around 3.2 (3.9ish for postbac which included pretty much all of my pre-reqs). Like others have said, a lot of schools look at your cGPA which includes your undergraduate GPA.

With that said, I feel like you would be competitive at Penn. They like nontraditional students and since they accepted me, cGPA isn't going to be a hard line (although I'm sure its still a factor). Make sure you do well on your GREs. I think i scored somewhere in the 80th percentile for verbal and somewhere between 85-90 percentile for math. I'm sure above average GRE scores can help offset a not so competitive cGPA.

Not sure where you are applying to, but schools I probably wouldn't apply to again if I had to do everything over again: Cornell & UK schools. Cornell pretty much spells out how they score students and cGPA (including your first undergraduate degree) plays a very large role in it. I applied because I held out hope that since it was so many years ago, blah blah they would overlook it but I didn't even get waitlisted. The UK schools I didn't even get an interview at, and I'm kind of convinced they never really saw past the undergraduate cGPA that VMCAS reports.

like others have mentioned there are definitely schools that look more/entirely at your recent grades and not your cGPA. I dont remember all of them, but if you read through this thread you will find a good list. Michigan State comes to mind. FWIW I got into Michigan State, Virginia Tech & Penn with a low cGPA.

One more thing: I totally feel you on the soul crushing aspect of working a computer job and the daunting nature of thinking you will do so the rest of your life. I think its good to be able to explain in interviews/statements why you felt discouraged about your first career, but whats even more important is why the veterinary profession is the answer. From my experience schools really want to understand that you know what you are getting into and have a really good reason to be quitting a high paying/stable job in order to be a veterinarian.

If you have any specific questions about Penn or just applying as a nontraditional student PM me!

 

[LadyKay]

I did set up a campus tour of UPenn with the Vet School admissions next month

Hi - just going to chime in here and inquire about how you were able to set up a campus tour at UPenn? I emailed them several months ago and was told they do not do that sort of thing. (I could've misunderstood though)

 

[M&D]

Guys, I have a couple of questions (at the end of the message). Be honest with me, I can take it!

28 years old, female, Ohio resident. 1st time applying

Degree:
Will have a B.S. in Biology

Cum GPA: 3.89
Science GPA:3.85
L45 GPA: 3.85

GRE (This is why I have questions)
Verbal:153
Quant: 147
Don't have the writing score yet.

Veterinary Experience:
- 942 hours experience SA (work)
- 104 hours experience Equine (shadow)
- 39 hours lab animal (shadow)
- 31 hours zoo animal (shadow)
- 2 hours zood animal (lol)

Animal Experience
- 3 years of military experience in the Israeli K9 unit as a combat soldier.
- 1 year of working part time at a dairy farm.
- 1 year of volunteering at the shelter for 2 hours/week

Research:
- 400 hours of immunology research at a well known research institution where I learned all the basic research methods (PCR, qPCR, flow, immunohistochemistry, mouse bleeding/clipping/euthanasia etc)

Letters of Recommendation:
- SA vet that I work for.
- Equine vet that I shadowed.
- Professor/advisor from school.
- Ph.D. from well known research institute where I did research.

Volunteering in a non animal setting:
- I travel around the OH and do public speaking about my army experience for an organization that I'm involved with.
- I volunteer at my synagogue around the holidays.

So I grew up in Denmark where I was until after high school when I went to Israel and joined the army. I know 3 languages and I have 3 citizenships. I am an American citizen so I'm not considered an international applicant. Just mentioning all this because it's probably what helps me "makes me stand out".

My concerns:

Just took the GRE today. My scores were way below my practice tests and obviously my quant score is way below the average applicant. I have been studying for 2 months. I never knew if I was good at standardized tests because we don't have them in Denmark, but it turns out I am not! I got very nervous and I ran out of time on the math sections. For the verbal, I don't know what happened either because I didn't feel like I did so bad. English is not my first language (I don't know if that is an excuse for my GRE score at all) I basically don't have time to take it again.

I was planning on applying to: OSU (Ohio), NCSU, Davis, Upenn, Tufts, CSU and Midwestern. These schools have been carefully selected in cooperation between my husband and I highly doubt he would agree to add other places to the list. It's all based on his job.

Question:

- Should I even bother applying to Davis, NCSU, Tufts and Upenn? Is there a chance with any of them? My dream school is NCSU (tuition, weather and husbands top priority) and I am feeling extremely discouraged because of my GRE results.
- How does it all look besides from that? I'm hoping that I will have a shot at least for OSU and MWU (no GRE required).

 

[Coopah]

Guys, I have a couple of questions (at the end of the message). Be honest with me, I can take it!

28 years old, female, Ohio resident. 1st time applying

Degree:
Will have a B.S. in Biology

Cum GPA: 3.89
Science GPA:3.85
L45 GPA: 3.85

GRE (This is why I have questions)
Verbal:153
Quant: 147
Don't have the writing score yet.

Veterinary Experience:
- 942 hours experience SA (work)
- 104 hours experience Equine (shadow)
- 39 hours lab animal (shadow)
- 31 hours zoo animal (shadow)
- 2 hours zood animal (lol)

Animal Experience
- 3 years of military experience in the Israeli K9 unit as a combat soldier.
- 1 year of working part time at a dairy farm.
- 1 year of volunteering at the shelter for 2 hours/week

Research:
- 400 hours of immunology research at a well known research institution where I learned all the basic research methods (PCR, qPCR, flow, immunohistochemistry, mouse bleeding/clipping/euthanasia etc)

Letters of Recommendation:
- SA vet that I work for.
- Equine vet that I shadowed.
- Professor/advisor from school.
- Ph.D. from well known research institute where I did research.

Volunteering in a non animal setting:
- I travel around the OH and do public speaking about my army experience for an organization that I'm involved with.
- I volunteer at my synagogue around the holidays.

So I grew up in Denmark where I was until after high school when I went to Israel and joined the army. I know 3 languages and I have 3 citizenships. I am an American citizen so I'm not considered an international applicant. Just mentioning all this because it's probably what helps me "makes me stand out".

My concerns:

Just took the GRE today. My scores were way below my practice tests and obviously my quant score is way below the average applicant. I have been studying for 2 months. I never knew if I was good at standardized tests because we don't have them in Denmark, but it turns out I am not! I got very nervous and I ran out of time on the math sections. For the verbal, I don't know what happened either because I didn't feel like I did so bad. English is not my first language (I don't know if that is an excuse for my GRE score at all) I basically don't have time to take it again.

I was planning on applying to: OSU (Ohio), NCSU, Davis, Upenn, Tufts, CSU and Midwestern. These schools have been carefully selected in cooperation between my husband and I highly doubt he would agree to add other places to the list. It's all based on his job.

Question:

- Should I even bother applying to Davis, NCSU, Tufts and Upenn? Is there a chance with any of them? My dream school is NCSU (tuition, weather and husbands top priority) and I am feeling extremely discouraged because of my GRE results.
- How does it all look besides from that? I'm hoping that I will have a shot at least for OSU and MWU (no GRE required).

As far as Davis goes you should definately have a shot. If you can up that Quant it would be great but you should still have a shot. Definitely apply. I am pretty much useless for everywhere else, good luck!

 

[SkiOtter]

Guys, I have a couple of questions (at the end of the message). Be honest with me, I can take it!

28 years old, female, Ohio resident. 1st time applying

Degree:
Will have a B.S. in Biology

Cum GPA: 3.89
Science GPA:3.85
L45 GPA: 3.85

GRE (This is why I have questions)
Verbal:153
Quant: 147
Don't have the writing score yet.

Veterinary Experience:
- 942 hours experience SA (work)
- 104 hours experience Equine (shadow)
- 39 hours lab animal (shadow)
- 31 hours zoo animal (shadow)
- 2 hours zood animal (lol)

Animal Experience
- 3 years of military experience in the Israeli K9 unit as a combat soldier.
- 1 year of working part time at a dairy farm.
- 1 year of volunteering at the shelter for 2 hours/week

Research:
- 400 hours of immunology research at a well known research institution where I learned all the basic research methods (PCR, qPCR, flow, immunohistochemistry, mouse bleeding/clipping/euthanasia etc)

Letters of Recommendation:
- SA vet that I work for.
- Equine vet that I shadowed.
- Professor/advisor from school.
- Ph.D. from well known research institute where I did research.

Volunteering in a non animal setting:
- I travel around the OH and do public speaking about my army experience for an organization that I'm involved with.
- I volunteer at my synagogue around the holidays.

So I grew up in Denmark where I was until after high school when I went to Israel and joined the army. I know 3 languages and I have 3 citizenships. I am an American citizen so I'm not considered an international applicant. Just mentioning all this because it's probably what helps me "makes me stand out".

My concerns:

Just took the GRE today. My scores were way below my practice tests and obviously my quant score is way below the average applicant. I have been studying for 2 months. I never knew if I was good at standardized tests because we don't have them in Denmark, but it turns out I am not! I got very nervous and I ran out of time on the math sections. For the verbal, I don't know what happened either because I didn't feel like I did so bad. English is not my first language (I don't know if that is an excuse for my GRE score at all) I basically don't have time to take it again.

I was planning on applying to: OSU (Ohio), NCSU, Davis, Upenn, Tufts, CSU and Midwestern. These schools have been carefully selected in cooperation between my husband and I highly doubt he would agree to add other places to the list. It's all based on his job.

Question:

- Should I even bother applying to Davis, NCSU, Tufts and Upenn? Is there a chance with any of them? My dream school is NCSU (tuition, weather and husbands top priority) and I am feeling extremely discouraged because of my GRE results.
- How does it all look besides from that? I'm hoping that I will have a shot at least for OSU and MWU (no GRE required).

AFAIK Davis likes a high last 45 and science (which you have) but also likes a high quant (which you don’t have). @Coopah could give you more information on Davis because other than that I don’t really know how they look at OOS applicants.
I know you said you probably couldn’t add schools to your list because of your husband and jobs, but Michigan State does not consider GRE at all either and neither do Purdue or VAMD. I think your best shot is probably OSU as an in state applicant, especially with them no longer requiring the GRE.
I assume you were part of the Israeli army and not the US army, correct? Only asking because some states do offer IS tuition to US military veterans which also would be something I’d look into if you were a US veteran.

 

[SkiOtter]

As far as Davis goes you should definately have a shot. If you can up that Quant it would be great but you should still have a shot. Definitely apply. I am pretty much useless for everywhere else, good luck!

Well damn you beat me here while I was typing and summoning you

 

[M&D]

As far as Davis goes you should definitely have a shot. If you can up that Quant it would be great but you should still have a shot. Definitely apply. I am pretty much useless for everywhere else, good luck!

I'm thinking I should try to find the time because it was around 154 in my practice tests. Thank you!

AFAIK Davis likes a high last 45 and science (which you have) but also likes a high quant (which you don’t have). @Coopah could give you more information on Davis because other than that I don’t really know how they look at OOS applicants.
I know you said you probably couldn’t add schools to your list because of your husband and jobs, but Michigan State does not consider GRE at all either and neither do Purdue or VAMD. I think your best shot is probably OSU as an in state applicant, especially with them no longer requiring the GRE.
I assume you were part of the Israeli army and not the US army, correct? Only asking because some states do offer IS tuition to US military veterans which also would be something I’d look into if you were a US veteran.

I had to look up AFAIK, does that mean I'm old? And I was not in the US army which would have been awesome right now since there seems to be many benefits.

Does anyone have any input about Tufts, NCSU and Upenn?

 

[SkiOtter]

I'm thinking I should try to find the time because it was around 154 in my practice tests. Thank you!

If do you retake the gre, I definitely recommend taking TIMED practice exams if you didn’t before the first try. You may do great on untimed tests but it’s a whole different ballgame once you put time restrictions on it. ETS offers one which is probably the best option since it’s BY the makers of the exam so you’d get the most realistic exam. Some of my friends didn’t and they didn’t do as well because they weren’t used to the timing and how quick they had to go.

 

[M&D]

If do you retake the gre, I definitely recommend taking TIMED practice exams if you didn’t before the first try. You may do great on untimed tests but it’s a whole different ballgame once you put time restrictions on it. ETS offers one which is probably the best option since it’s BY the makers of the exam so you’d get the most realistic exam. Some of my friends didn’t and they didn’t do as well because they weren’t used to the timing and how quick they had to go.

That's great advice and that's what I did. I did 3 timed practice exams, one on ETS and two on Magoosh, none of which were even close to my score. I might add that my time/question on Magoosh "customized practice" (non-practice exam) was mostly higher than the average in the quant section so I was definitely aware that time would be an issue.

 

[Lavaniel]

I apply next summer, just having some questions about my GRE (just took it yesterday!).

I really want to attend NCSU for their AWESOME MPH in veterinary epidemiology for DVMs. Most likely to apply to NCSU, Auburn, Cornell, and UGA.

21 yo at time of application, female, Kentucky resident, first-time applicant

Degree: At time of graduation, will have a B.S. of Biology in Veterinary Science track, and a minor in chemistry

Cumulative GPA: 3.93
Science GPA: 4.0
Last 45 GPA (currently): 3.93

GRE
Verbal/Quant: finished the test and didn't write down the scores fast enough. Either 153 or 152 in either section, not sure which order
Do I need to retake it for NCSU?
AW: Don't have score yet

Veterinary Experience:
-752 hours small animal practice (veterinary assistant)
-going to shadow large animal vet this semester

Getting vet experience in Eastern KY is extremely difficult. Only SA vets can even get business here.

Animal Experience:
-family farm raising swine, cattle, quail, chicken, and Tennessee Walking horses - 200 hours
-animal shelter volunteering - 6 hours
-worked as a kennel technician for 423 hours at the clinic where most of my hours were received. These were volunteer hours only.

Animal shelter didn't open up in my home county until last year

Research:
Currently in the planning process to pursue a study in the incidence rate of parvovirus in Eastern Kentucky. I want to specialize in veterinary epidemiology so this research is very important to me.

Volunteering in non-animal setting:
-Salvation Army - 5 hours
-Special Olympics - 8 hours
-pro bono tutoring in chemistry - 6 hours

Extracurricular activities and accolades:
-Dean's list every semester attended
-Vice President and founder of video gaming club, two years
-Secretary of Pre-Vet Club
-Rogers Scholar Recipient

-Something weird about me: I build costumes (cosplay!) in my spare time and compete in competitions. I am currently considered a master cosplayer for the awards I have received. I have a small side business where I stream and record tutorials for helping others build costumes on their own. I have an etsy shop where I sell blueprints for cosplay props. I like to use portions of the funds to support the animal shelter where I live.

My questions:
I really want to attend NCSU, but I fear my lack of varied experience and my GRE scores are going to hinder me. I have never been a great standardized test taker but I don't feel I'm terrible. I do have to travel several hours just to take the exam. Should I retake it? The only thing diversity-wise I have going for me is that my family was affected by the loss of coal jobs, and three days before I started college, I lost my home. I had to use my scholarship money to relocate my family where I went to school. The economy here in KY is phenomenally bad - the nearest zoo is six hours away. What other areas of my application need help?

 

[SkiOtter]

I apply next summer, just having some questions about my GRE (just took it yesterday!).

I really want to attend NCSU for their AWESOME MPH in veterinary epidemiology for DVMs. Most likely to apply to NCSU, Auburn, Cornell, and UGA.

21 yo at time of application, female, Kentucky resident, first-time applicant

Degree: At time of graduation, will have a B.S. of Biology in Veterinary Science track, and a minor in chemistry

Cumulative GPA: 3.93
Science GPA: 4.0
Last 45 GPA (currently): 3.93

GRE
Verbal/Quant: finished the test and didn't write down the scores fast enough. Either 153 or 152 in either section, not sure which order
Do I need to retake it for NCSU?
AW: Don't have score yet

Veterinary Experience:
-752 hours small animal practice (veterinary assistant)
-going to shadow large animal vet this semester

Getting vet experience in Eastern KY

Animal Experience

NCSU is an extremely competitive school for OOS applicants, so personally I’d think about retaking it, especially if you think you could change something about your studying to bump your scores.

 

[deleted676737]

I apply next summer, just having some questions about my GRE (just took it yesterday!).

I really want to attend NCSU for their AWESOME MPH in veterinary epidemiology for DVMs. Most likely to apply to NCSU, Auburn, Cornell, and UGA.

21 yo at time of application, female, Kentucky resident, first-time applicant

Degree: At time of graduation, will have a B.S. of Biology in Veterinary Science track, and a minor in chemistry

Cumulative GPA: 3.93
Science GPA: 4.0
Last 45 GPA (currently): 3.93

GRE
Verbal/Quant: finished the test and didn't write down the scores fast enough. Either 153 or 152 in either section, not sure which order
Do I need to retake it for NCSU?
AW: Don't have score yet

Veterinary Experience:
-752 hours small animal practice (veterinary assistant)
-going to shadow large animal vet this semester

Getting vet experience in Eastern KY is extremely difficult. Only SA vets can even get business here.

Animal Experience:
-family farm raising swine, cattle, quail, chicken, and Tennessee Walking horses - 200 hours
-animal shelter volunteering - 6 hours
-worked as a kennel technician for 423 hours at the clinic where most of my hours were received. These were volunteer hours only.

Animal shelter didn't open up in my home county until last year

Research:
Currently in the planning process to pursue a study in the incidence rate of parvovirus in Eastern Kentucky. I want to specialize in veterinary epidemiology so this research is very important to me.

Volunteering in non-animal setting:
-Salvation Army - 5 hours
-Special Olympics - 8 hours
-pro bono tutoring in chemistry - 6 hours

Extracurricular activities and accolades:
-Dean's list every semester attended
-Vice President and founder of video gaming club, two years
-Secretary of Pre-Vet Club
-Rogers Scholar Recipient

-Something weird about me: I build costumes (cosplay!) in my spare time and compete in competitions. I am currently considered a master cosplayer for the awards I have received. I have a small side business where I stream and record tutorials for helping others build costumes on their own. I have an etsy shop where I sell blueprints for cosplay props. I like to use portions of the funds to support the animal shelter where I live.

My questions:
I really want to attend NCSU, but I fear my lack of varied experience and my GRE scores are going to hinder me. I have never been a great standardized test taker but I don't feel I'm terrible. I do have to travel several hours just to take the exam. Should I retake it? The only thing diversity-wise I have going for me is that my family was affected by the loss of coal jobs, and three days before I started college, I lost my home. I had to use my scholarship money to relocate my family where I went to school. The economy here in KY is phenomenally bad - the nearest zoo is six hours away. What other areas of my application need help?

I agree with @SkiOtter. NCSU is easily one of the most competitive schools for OOS applicants. Your GRE scores aren't bad, but I would try to aim for a bit higher if possible. My collected data indicates that, for the previous year, the average GRE scores were 156 V and 154 Q, but that includes IS and OOS, and presumably most OOSers were above that. I don't think that it would be impossible or anything with where you are at right now if a retake will be that much of a hassle for you, but scoring above those averages might secure you an even better fighting chance at that school, which would be ideal since it's almost certainly one of your cheapest options once you account for the residency status switch.

Speaking of, your GPAs are excellent. Which will help you tremendously. So good job there. Experience is a little lacking, but in tandem with your nearly immaculate grades is probably enough.

The cosplay stuff sounds really cool and will give you a bit of a unique edge. I have several friends who are into that, as well.

Personally, I think that your chances of admission to at least one of those schools are quite good, especially if you do retake the GRE and can diversify your veterinary experience a bit.

 

[Lavaniel]

I agree with @SkiOtter. NCSU is easily one of the most competitive schools for OOS applicants. Your GRE scores aren't bad, but I would try to aim for a bit higher if possible. My collected data indicates that, for the previous year, the average GRE scores were 156 V and 154 Q, but that includes IS and OOS, and presumably most OOSers were above that. I don't think that it would be impossible or anything with where you are at right now if a retake will be that much of a hassle for you, but scoring above those averages might secure you an even better fighting chance at that school, which would be ideal since it's almost certainly your cheapest option once you account for the residency status switch.

Speaking of, your GPAs are excellent. Which will help you tremendously. So good job there. Experience is a little lacking, but in tandem with your nearly immaculate grades is probably enough.

The cosplay stuff sounds really cool and will give you a bit of a unique edge. I have several friends who are into that, as well.

Personally, I think that your chances of admission to at least one of those schools are quite good, especially if you do retake the GRE and can diversify your veterinary experience a bit.

I'm lucky that Auburn has KY-reserved seats, to the say the least. Anyways, if retaking the test is a bit more difficult, would supplementing more varied experience be able to off that?

Also, what GRE prep tools would you recommend? I used Kaplan but my premiere expired a month before my exam, so a lot of the prep I wanted I couldn't access anymore.

 

[battie]

First time applicant, male 21, OH Resident

Had some battles with severe depression, anxiety and ADD, including a medical withdrawal, that I now have under control, will talk about in explanation statement

B.S Biology with Honors Graduating Fall 2018

Cum GPA: 3.44
SCI GPA: ~3.27 (includes math, Orgo 2 and Biochem are Cs)
Last 45 GPA: 3.43 with an up trend last semester being a 3.71

GRE- Q151(43%)/V157(76%)/4.5(82%)

Vet experience:
- Veterinary Assistant at a very large Emergency/Specialty Hospital (3000hrs)
-Shadowing a Veterinarian at a small 2 doctor practice (624hrs)
-Observing orthopedic surgeries including TPLO, Total Hip replacement, TTA, fracture repairs (80hrs)
-Observing a board certified radiologist (80hrs)
-Shadowing at a Equine hospital and ambulatory services (100hrs)
-Shadowing a large animal vet on field calls (50hrs)

Animal experience:
Volunteer at Humane Society (240hrs)
Maine Marine Field Ecology (72hrs)

Research Experience:
Worked on a Distal Femoral Osteotomy Long Term Outcome Study with a board certified Orthopedic Surgeon - 128 hours
Working on a clean orthopedic Cephalexin Study with same surgeon - 32 hours

Extracurriculars:
-Member of College Democrats
-Member of Gay-Straight Alliance
-Member of Pre-Vet Club
-Member of The Secular Student Alliance
-Participated in March For Science in D.C.
-Participated in March For Our Lives in Cleveland
-Marched in Cleveland Pride
-Manage My Own Brokerage Account through Robinhood with a 201.35% increase in value in two years (1600hrs managing account, making trades, reading news on stocks, etc..)
-I have played violin since 5th grade and still practice at least a couple hours a week
-Intramural Soccer

Awards:
-Scholarship for Excellence
-Honors College Scholarship
-Graduation with Honors
-Cum Laude Graduation
-Dean's List Fall 2015
-Eagle Scout

High School
-Diploma with Honors
-Top 25 Graduate (Rank 11)
-4.44 GPA
-4 Year Academic Letter Recipient
-Boy Scouts (Earned Eagle Scout)
-National Honors Society
-JV and Varsity Soccer, also played in private club during spring and summer

These are the schools that are on my list:
-Cornell
-Iowa State
-Michigan State
-Midwestern
-Ohio State
-Oregon State (I know a long shot out of state but I have family nearby)
-Purdue
-University of Illinois
-U of Minnesota
-U of Missouri
-Virginia-Maryland
-Washington State

Don't recommend the island schools to me as it is still technically illegal by imprisonment to be gay there. 🙁

I can only really comment on Illinois. Your stats and ecs fit their holistic review of applicants, and GPAs don't factor in once you hit your interview if offered.

I honestly don't think it's worth your money to apply to Oregon, though. They take, what, <20 OOS applicants? I think the ~$200 would better serve you as money saved to use for the interview trail later on in the application cycle, which gets expensive.

 

[jlc148]

Hey 1st time applicant here... Florida instate.
Applying to UF, Auburn, Mississippi State, and MSU.

Battled hardcore with depression and it hurt my GPA a bit will have it in my explanation.

Cumulative: 3.56
Science: 3.3 (retaking organic II right now)
My last 36 is somewhere around a 3.3 as well but I am in summer courses right now all of which are As so it could change.

GRE is 152V/154Q/4.5

Animal Hours:
~350 hours volunteering at local shelters
~100 hours volunteering as a kennel tech at a small animal clinic

Veterinary Hours:
~700 hours working overnights at an emergency center
~250 hours shadowing at a large animal clinic
~100 hours assisting spay and neuter surgeries at a local refuge (mostly small animal but also some large animal experience)

All 3 of these are ongoing experiences.

Extracurriculars:
Honors society
Pre-veterinary

Non-animal experience:
I have 1000+hours as a cashier at publix which is dumb but I mean it's a long commitment.

500+ hours a registered pharmacy technician.

What's my chances?? Should I retake my GRE?

 

[battie]

Applying to UF, Auburn, Mississippi State, and MSU.

I'd say you're on the lower end of the spectrum for applicants, but not dead in the water by any means. UF and Michigan sound like good options due to IS and GPA considerations. As long as Auburn and Miss are the same, you have a chance, I would think.

As far as GRE retakes go, what are the GRE scores of the classes of 2020 or 2021 at the schools on your list? If those scores are higher than yours and they have high consideration of the GRE, you may want to. But you're also running out of time to 1) effectively study well to get an improved score and 2) actually take it.

 

[jlc148]

I'd say you're on the lower end of the spectrum for applicants, but not dead in the water by any means. UF and Michigan sound like good options due to IS and GPA considerations. As long as Auburn and Miss are the same, you have a chance, I would think.

As far as GRE retakes go, what are the GRE scores of the classes of 2020 or 2021 at the schools on your list? If those scores are higher than yours and they have high consideration of the GRE, you may want to. But you're also running out of time to 1) effectively study well to get an improved score and 2) actually take it.

I've actually been studying almost all summer but I'm just running out of funds. I'll definitely look into the other scores and determine from there.

 

[hachandl]

Hi guys! I am actually going to be applying next summer but wanted to see if I am on the right track.

I decided late into my undergrad that I couldn't deny any longer that I wanted to be a veterinarian, so I'm behind.

I just graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, and am starting a masters in animal science this fall (my husband needs to stay here in town for work for about a year and a half and I wanted more time to get hours anyway!)

GPA:
Cum GPA: 3.91
Last 45: 4.0
Science: 4.0

GRE: (Plan on probably retaking next summer, I didn't study as much as I could have)
Verbal GRE: 161
Quant GRE: 160
Analytical: 4.5

I know my academics are pretty good, but hours are where I'm severely lacking so I was hoping to get feedback on which areas I should focus on this next year/number to shoot for:
Vet Experience:
40 hrs so far with small animal vet
will have 40 hrs zoo vet internship this fall

Animal Experience:
~100 hours of pet sitting

Research:
1 year of research for muscle regeneration in mice
3 years of research in porcine mitral valve modeling (with honor's thesis)

Work/Extracurricular:
College of Engineering Ambassador (10-15 hrs per week)
College of Engineering Camp Lead Coordinator
President of Engineering Sorority (previously Secretary and Recruitment Chair)
Freshman Engineering Peer Mentor
Currently Outreach Coordinator for College of Engineering

Publications:
(Co-authored) Engaging Underrepresented Students in Engineering through Targeted and Thematic Summer Camp Content


I'm very new and understand that I have so much work to do hours wise, but also am going to be pretty busy with my masters so I'm wondering what you guys think is a good number of hours to reach based on my other credentials. I am an Arkansas resident and plan on applying to LSU, Missou, and Oklahoma for sure

 

[Coopah]

Hi guys! I am actually going to be applying next summer but wanted to see if I am on the right track.

I decided late into my undergrad that I couldn't deny any longer that I wanted to be a veterinarian, so I'm behind.

I just graduated with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, and am starting a masters in animal science this fall (my husband needs to stay here in town for work for about a year and a half and I wanted more time to get hours anyway!)

GPA:
Cum GPA: 3.91
Last 45: 4.0
Science: 4.0

GRE: (Plan on probably retaking next summer, I didn't study as much as I could have)
Verbal GRE: 161
Quant GRE: 160
Analytical: 4.5

I know my academics are pretty good, but hours are where I'm severely lacking so I was hoping to get feedback on which areas I should focus on this next year/number to shoot for:
Vet Experience:
40 hrs so far with small animal vet
will have 40 hrs zoo vet internship this fall

Animal Experience:
~100 hours of pet sitting

Research:
1 year of research for muscle regeneration in mice
3 years of research in porcine mitral valve modeling (with honor's thesis)

Work/Extracurricular:
College of Engineering Ambassador (10-15 hrs per week)
College of Engineering Camp Lead Coordinator
President of Engineering Sorority (previously Secretary and Recruitment Chair)
Freshman Engineering Peer Mentor
Currently Outreach Coordinator for College of Engineering

Publications:
(Co-authored) Engaging Underrepresented Students in Engineering through Targeted and Thematic Summer Camp Content


I'm very new and understand that I have so much work to do hours wise, but also am going to be pretty busy with my masters so I'm wondering what you guys think is a good number of hours to reach based on my other credentials. I am an Arkansas resident and plan on applying to LSU, Missou, and Oklahoma for sure

You should apply to Davis if you think you could move to California. You'd be a perfect fit as far as I can see. We only have a 180 hour minimum as well and don't look beyond that if you can check the box. Also we have IS tuition after the first year. It won't be as cheap as your IS, but it's still a great option.

 

[CombatVeteranVeterinarian]

Hey guys, let me know what you think about the following. It's a rough, yet mostly accurate, sketch of what I'm working with at the moment. Thanks!

(I'm not finished with the science coursework, just fyi).

27 year old male, Texas resident, first time applying

Degree(s):
B.A. in Philosophy with a minor in Religious Studies
M.A. in Philosophy
(Science coursework is being completed in a post-baccalaureate program)

CumGPA for B.A.: 3.43
Major GPA: 3.79
Graduate CumGPA: 3.65
Science GPA: 3.75

GRE: Verbal: 152
Quant: 151
Writing: 4.5
(Retaking this; I took it on a whim to get into graduate school)

Veterinary Experience:
~200 hours shadowing local veterinarians throughout San Antonio

Animal Experience:
*A lifetime of working with animals at my family's exotic ranch
*Served as an infantry combat Marine working alongside IDDs, providing care to them
~500 hours working in a pet store
~50 hours of volunteer work at a local humane society, providing play, entertainment and walks for homeless dogs

Research/Academic Projects:
*Gave a presentation at UTSA's Graduate Philosophy Ethics Conference on animal-human relations and how they're seen in literature, Kantian ethics, et al, and likewise, how it applies to ethical theories on atrocity, harm, etc.
*Published my thesis on the application of philosophical investigation to the sciences
*Published poetry focusing specifically on the relation animals have in helping one to get beyond their own pain and suffering
*Certified to teach English Language Arts and Reading

Working with Hoomans:
~200 hours serving as an undergraduate writing tutor
~100 hours as a private tutor in writing/reading comprehension
~4 years of serving alongside “devil dogs” i.e. U.S. Marines

Extracurricular Activities and Points of Interest:
*Member of the Society of Christian Philosophers
*Member of the National Society of Leadership and Success
*High School English teacher for 3 years
*Played collegiate tennis for a year and a half
*Served as an infantry Marine for 4 years, retiring honorably and highly decorated
*Served as judge at the Annual Texas Regional Ethics Bowl, St. Mary’s University
*Philosophy Fellowship Award, University of Texas-San Antonio
*Dean's List, University of the Incarnate Word

 

[lelakenz]

Hello all!

I am a first time applicant and was hoping to get some feedback on whether or not I should retake the GRE to improve my app. Please give me any advice you can think of that might help me out!

cum GPA: 3.9
science GPA: 3.88

GRE
verbal- 157 (76th percentile)
quant- 157 (65th percentile)
Writing- 5.0 (92nd percentile)

-I have a lot of Animal experience from working as a pet sitter to an intern at a wildlife rehab center in Lynnwood, WA for three months. At the rehab center I did a LOT of hands on with wildlife including handling, tube feeding, giving subQ medications and fluids to a wide variety of species such as raptors, infantile and juvenile rodentia and birds. I also have a lot of work with reptiles and amphibians from working as a caretaker in a large vivarium/lab for two years at my University.
-Where I lack is my Vet hours. I have a little over 1,000 hours of Vet experience right now. However, I have just started working at a veterinary clinic and will be continuing to do so full-time for my gap year which I intend to include in my VMCAS app (hoping it is considered and will help my chances) because by Fall 2019 I will have gained 2,000 or so hours of vet experience via this job.
-I have experience mostly with exotics, wildlife and small animal, and some large animal experience from courses during college such as with dairy cattle, alpacas and boer goats.
- I believe my recommendation letters will be well written and one will be especially personal and helpful while the other two will be decent.
- I also have a decent amount of extracurriculars and volunteer work
My current list of schools is: I am most worried about my GRE scores being competitive enough for CSU, Upenn and UF
CSU
VA-MD (my IS)
UF
WSU
UPenn
Ohio
UNC
Cornell

Thank you in advance!

 

[Coopah]

Hey guys, let me know what you think about the following. It's a rough, yet mostly accurate, sketch of what I'm working with at the moment. Thanks!

(I'm not finished with the science coursework, just fyi).

27 year old male, Texas resident, first time applying

Degree(s):
B.A. in Philosophy with a minor in Religious Studies
M.A. in Philosophy
(Science coursework is being completed in a post-baccalaureate program)

CumGPA for B.A.: 3.43
Major GPA: 3.79
Graduate CumGPA: 3.65
Science GPA: 3.75

GRE: Verbal: 152
Quant: 151
Writing: 4.5
(Retaking this; I took it on a whim to get into graduate school)

Veterinary Experience:
~200 hours shadowing local veterinarians throughout San Antonio

Animal Experience:
*A lifetime of working with animals at my family's exotic ranch
*Served as an infantry combat Marine working alongside IDDs, providing care to them
~500 hours working in a pet store
~50 hours of volunteer work at a local humane society, providing play, entertainment and walks for homeless dogs

Research/Academic Projects:
*Gave a presentation at UTSA's Graduate Philosophy Ethics Conference on animal-human relations and how they're seen in literature, Kantian ethics, et al, and likewise, how it applies to ethical theories on atrocity, harm, etc.
*Published my thesis on the application of philosophical investigation to the sciences
*Published poetry focusing specifically on the relation animals have in helping one to get beyond their own pain and suffering
*Certified to teach English Language Arts and Reading

Working with Hoomans:
~200 hours serving as an undergraduate writing tutor
~100 hours as a private tutor in writing/reading comprehension
~4 years of serving alongside “devil dogs” i.e. U.S. Marines

Extracurricular Activities and Points of Interest:
*Member of the Society of Christian Philosophers
*Member of the National Society of Leadership and Success
*High School English teacher for 3 years
*Played collegiate tennis for a year and a half
*Served as an infantry Marine for 4 years, retiring honorably and highly decorated
*Served as judge at the Annual Texas Regional Ethics Bowl, St. Mary’s University
*Philosophy Fellowship Award, University of Texas-San Antonio
*Dean's List, University of the Incarnate Word

Are you planning on only applying to A&M? Or are you looking OOS as well? What is your last 45 GPA? What is your cumulative GPA for both graduate and undergraduate coursework?

 

[MOOSEygoosey]

Hello all!

I am a first time applicant and was hoping to get some feedback on whether or not I should retake the GRE to improve my app. Please give me any advice you can think of that might help me out!

cum GPA: 3.9
science GPA: 3.88

GRE
verbal- 157 (76th percentile)
quant- 157 (65th percentile)
Writing- 5.0 (92nd percentile)

-I have a lot of Animal experience from working as a pet sitter to an intern at a wildlife rehab center in Lynnwood, WA for three months. At the rehab center I did a LOT of hands on with wildlife including handling, tube feeding, giving subQ medications and fluids to a wide variety of species such as raptors, infantile and juvenile rodentia and birds. I also have a lot of work with reptiles and amphibians from working as a caretaker in a large vivarium/lab for two years at my University.
-Where I lack is my Vet hours. I have a little over 1,000 hours of Vet experience right now. However, I have just started working at a veterinary clinic and will be continuing to do so full-time for my gap year which I intend to include in my VMCAS app (hoping it is considered and will help my chances) because by Fall 2019 I will have gained 2,000 or so hours of vet experience via this job.
-I have experience mostly with exotics, wildlife and small animal, and some large animal experience from courses during college such as with dairy cattle, alpacas and boer goats.
- I believe my recommendation letters will be well written and one will be especially personal and helpful while the other two will be decent.
- I also have a decent amount of extracurriculars and volunteer work
My current list of schools is: I am most worried about my GRE scores being competitive enough for CSU, Upenn and UF
CSU
VA-MD (my IS)
UF
WSU
UPenn
Ohio
UNC
Cornell

Thank you in advance!

Need my colorado peeps to help out my girl here 🙂 @RedLauren @MixedAnimals77 @capri1722

 

[CombatVeteranVeterinarian]

Are you planning on only applying to A&M? Or are you looking OOS as well? What is your last 45 GPA? What is your cumulative GPA for both graduate and undergraduate coursework?

Given the total cost of veterinary school, I'm looking at applying to Texas A&M, Washington State & Purdue (and others, perhaps, but I'm not too set on any other schools in particular, maybe Edinburgh though). My last 45 GPA is around 3.65+. CumGPA for graduate and undergraduate coursework is somewhere around a 3.5+.

 

[Coopah]

Given the total cost of veterinary school, I'm looking at applying to Texas A&M, Washington State & Purdue (and others, perhaps, but I'm not too set on any other schools in particular, maybe Edinburgh though). My last 45 GPA is around 3.65+. CumGPA for graduate and undergraduate coursework is somewhere around a 3.5+.

I applaud your decision to be extra conscious about paying for your education. Unfortunately I can't help because I know nothing about those schools, good luck!

 

[RedLauren]

Hello all!

I am a first time applicant and was hoping to get some feedback on whether or not I should retake the GRE to improve my app. Please give me any advice you can think of that might help me out!

cum GPA: 3.9
science GPA: 3.88

GRE
verbal- 157 (76th percentile)
quant- 157 (65th percentile)
Writing- 5.0 (92nd percentile)

-I have a lot of Animal experience from working as a pet sitter to an intern at a wildlife rehab center in Lynnwood, WA for three months. At the rehab center I did a LOT of hands on with wildlife including handling, tube feeding, giving subQ medications and fluids to a wide variety of species such as raptors, infantile and juvenile rodentia and birds. I also have a lot of work with reptiles and amphibians from working as a caretaker in a large vivarium/lab for two years at my University.
-Where I lack is my Vet hours. I have a little over 1,000 hours of Vet experience right now. However, I have just started working at a veterinary clinic and will be continuing to do so full-time for my gap year which I intend to include in my VMCAS app (hoping it is considered and will help my chances) because by Fall 2019 I will have gained 2,000 or so hours of vet experience via this job.
-I have experience mostly with exotics, wildlife and small animal, and some large animal experience from courses during college such as with dairy cattle, alpacas and boer goats.
- I believe my recommendation letters will be well written and one will be especially personal and helpful while the other two will be decent.
- I also have a decent amount of extracurriculars and volunteer work
My current list of schools is: I am most worried about my GRE scores being competitive enough for CSU, Upenn and UF
CSU
VA-MD (my IS)
UF
WSU
UPenn
Ohio
UNC
Cornell

Thank you in advance!

I think your GPA and GRE are competitive. But if you have the time to prepare and money to do it then why not take it again? With a well polished personal statement I think you have a good change of being interviewed at CSU at least, which is the only school I applied to on your list. Also don’t underestimate volunteer hours and community service. Vet schools love this so don’t downplay it!

 

[capri1722]

Hello all!

I am a first time applicant and was hoping to get some feedback on whether or not I should retake the GRE to improve my app. Please give me any advice you can think of that might help me out!

cum GPA: 3.9
science GPA: 3.88

GRE
verbal- 157 (76th percentile)
quant- 157 (65th percentile)
Writing- 5.0 (92nd percentile)

-I have a lot of Animal experience from working as a pet sitter to an intern at a wildlife rehab center in Lynnwood, WA for three months. At the rehab center I did a LOT of hands on with wildlife including handling, tube feeding, giving subQ medications and fluids to a wide variety of species such as raptors, infantile and juvenile rodentia and birds. I also have a lot of work with reptiles and amphibians from working as a caretaker in a large vivarium/lab for two years at my University.
-Where I lack is my Vet hours. I have a little over 1,000 hours of Vet experience right now. However, I have just started working at a veterinary clinic and will be continuing to do so full-time for my gap year which I intend to include in my VMCAS app (hoping it is considered and will help my chances) because by Fall 2019 I will have gained 2,000 or so hours of vet experience via this job.
-I have experience mostly with exotics, wildlife and small animal, and some large animal experience from courses during college such as with dairy cattle, alpacas and boer goats.
- I believe my recommendation letters will be well written and one will be especially personal and helpful while the other two will be decent.
- I also have a decent amount of extracurriculars and volunteer work
My current list of schools is: I am most worried about my GRE scores being competitive enough for CSU, Upenn and UF
CSU
VA-MD (my IS)
UF
WSU
UPenn
Ohio
UNC
Cornell

Thank you in advance!

Need my colorado peeps to help out my girl here 🙂 @RedLauren @MixedAnimals77 @capri1722

Not sure how much help a pharm student will be in assessing admission chances for vet school but I'm happy to help if you (lelakenz) have any questions about Colorado in general. 🙂 Thanks for thinking of me!