Whether you’re the next budding James Herriot or aspiring Veterinary student, preparation is vital for a successful application.
It’s all about the work experience
Don’t be caught off guard: just being the next Hermione Granger will no longer cut it. Work experience is key to a successful application or even getting an interview. The wider the variety and longer the duration of placements, the stronger the position you’ll be in. So whilst awakening at the crack of dawn to go and herd heifers to the milking parlour or muck out numerous stables may seem like a far cry from the world of Veterinary surgery, it can help make you stand out from the stampede of students fighting for those precious places.
There are the usual standard placements, such as lambing, dairy and observing at small and large Veterinary practices that should definitely be completed before applying. Unusual placements can also enable you to stand out from the crowd and can be a great talking point at interviews. Whilst many universities only stipulate a minimum number of weeks, most people will go the extra mile and clock up years of work experience. So be prepared to start applying for placements early and spending the majority of your summer holidays at placements rather than relaxing on some distant beach. The more effort you put in, the more successful you’re likely to be and always endeavour to get a reference when completing a placement rather than wait until months later.
Don’t become a recluse
Another element that is important to a successful application is extracurricular activities. Whilst you may have completed numerous weeks of work experience and have various A*s, becoming a recluse and remaining in your room to study probably isn’t the best approach. Getting involved in the school choir, being a prefect or taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award can give you something extra when it comes to the dreaded personal statement or interview. Demonstrating that you can be a team player, as well as an independent thinker can be important, as well as being able to enjoy hobbies outside of academic study.
Academic extras
Academically, having strong A-Level choices is important. Critical Thinking and General Studies aren’t included in grade offers, although Critical Thinking in particular can be useful in refining your technique for the BMAT. Coursework-heavy subjects may weaken your application in comparison to more scientific or mathematical courses. However, for most universities, studying a language or humanity as your third subject is acceptable and can demonstrate a more diverse range of skills. Undertaking an Extended Project can also strengthen your application as it can allow you to write a dissertation on an area of interest in Veterinary Medicine. The research involved can also provide great interview preparation, killing two birds with one stone.
Whilst there’s no disputing that getting into vet school is challenging, with a little perseverance and a lot of work experience, it’s not an impossible dream.
Do you have any tips for aspiring vets? Let us know in the comments below.
Photo: Lucinda Giles
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