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A Career as a Veterinary Surgeon
A Career as a Veterinary Nurse
A career as a Veterinary Surgeon |
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Martin C. James |
Seemingly
incessant episodes of Animal Hospital, Vets in Practice and Pet Rescue have
given the public an idea of what it is like to be a vet post “James
Herriot”. But is it an accurate idea?
In truth being a vet, like any job, has its highs and lows. The daily challenges and variety make the job incredibly rewarding when things are going well. However there are days (fortunately fairly infrequently), when things just don’t seem to go right and the usual problems of occasional difficult pets, difficult owners and difficult cases, not to mention upsetting cases, can all add up. The ability to deal with problems and stay calm is therefore essential.
The veterinary course is long and hard, but thoroughly enjoyable and exciting as you get closer and closer to your goal of being a vet. The problem is getting in: 10 people apply for every single place at vet school – so you need to be certain that veterinary medicine is going to be for you. The best way to do this (and to get the experience required by vet schools), is to spend time at veterinary practices (both farm and companion animal) finding out what it’s all about. Although standing around at a busy vets first thing on a Monday morning can be quite daunting it is really important to get involved with all the nitty-gritty stuff that’s going on – from watching the operations and looking at x-rays to the less glamourous side like cleaning out litter boxes and kennels. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – all vets have been through this stage, so they won’t bite and a bright, keen work experience student will be made welcome at any practice.
If you’re still committed after several weeks of experience, it’s time to start working for you’re A-levels. Three A grades are the minimum nowadays and no-one is going to complain if you have some S-levels as well. If you can get the grades, don’t forget how much going to Vet School is going to cost you. The course lasts 5 – 6 years and there is little spare time to earn money during the term or holidays. Finally, be realistic about the standard of living veterinary medicine will bring – if you want to be a high earner with lots of time off, you should consider a more lucrative profession without long working days, and nights spent on call.
If all the above doesn’t put you off then veterinary medicine is the career for you! There are 6 great vet schools in the U.K. – London, Bristol, Cambridge, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. If your application is well received you will hopefully get an interview – along with another 4 people after your place. You will all have similar grades and similar work experience, so this is when you really have to stand out. Displaying a love of animals, although essential, is not enough. Keep up to date with any current veterinary issues – foot and mouth, BSE, pet passports or whatever else is making the news. Talk with enthusiasm and interest about your veterinary experience – show that you took on an active role and learnt something. It is a good idea to show interest in outside activities such as sport, music or anything which the vet school might think could bring them extra kudos. The final thing is to work on interview technique. The selectors will have had a long day of aspiring vets, so you must sell yourself. If your school doesn’t provide training in this area, then find someone who can help.
If all goes well and you get your place at a vet school CONGRATULATIONS.
You will be about to embark on a fantastic new life that will keep you
interested and excited in your work from your first day until you retire.
Further Information
Advice from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
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