You've wanted to be a veterinarian since you were a kid. How do you prepare for the journey towards vet school?
The path to veterinary school can start in high school. Here are some basic tips to help get you started on the right path:
- Take a lot of science courses. If your school offers AP or IB science courses, that would be a good place to start. Veterinary medicine involves a lot of science, so courses such as biology, chemistry, physics, and anatomy are good choices.
- Start volunteering if possible. Some veterinary schools allow you to count volunteer hours from high school on your veterinary application. Try looking at shelters and animal rescues and veterinary clinics. Some may have an age restriction, but it never hurts to ask!
- Get involved at school. Joining agriculture and animal related clubs (such as FFA and 4-H) and holding leadership positions will help you expand your skills and learn more about the profession.
Not sure veterinary medicine is the right choice?
You still have plenty of time to decide! Take time in high school and college to explore your options.
Each spring, UC Davis Vet School's Veterinary Student Outreach Club (VSO) hosts Future Day, a day for high school students to come to the UC Davis veterinary campus and learn about veterinary medicine through hands-on activities and wetlabs! This year's event is already full, but here's the link to the website where you can find more information and register in future years! |