Give it to me straight: What are my chances here, and how would you improve?
I plan to apply to VMCVM in the fall (I am in-state), and figure that if/when I get rejected, I can at least use it as a learning experience for the next cycle. But, I like to plan ahead.
I am currently working about 70 hours a week in addition to working on certifications for my non-vetmed day job and am about to start one of the prereqs needed for admission to the DVM program, so I can’t add anything else to my plate at the moment. (Edit for clarity: I will be able to take on different experiences starting in the late fall/early spring, I am just not in a position to do more before this cycle ends)
Below is a summary of what I’m working with for this year’s app. I am partly wondering if I have more than a snowball’s chance in hell at acceptance this cycle. Mostly, I would love to know what you think would be the most efficient improvements I can make for the next application cycle. I would love to shadow more vets and particularly get some experience with exotic vets. I have heard mixed opinions on the effectiveness of certs like fear free.
Academics
- Overall GPA - 3.7 (Graduated 2018)
- Anthropology, w/ medical anthropology focus
- Honors College - thesis on indigenous women’s access to reproductive healthcare; volunteer work was included
- Science GPA - 3.3
- Last 45 GPA - 3.6
- I took a lot of BS classes during this time, as I just needed hours
- I also went back to school for web design 2019-2021 and got a similar GPA, not sure if details are relevant
Animal Experience (estimated # of hours by early fall)
- 700+ general hours
- 150 hrs @ zoo (2013/2014)
- 125 hrs @ wildlife rehab (2023/2024)
- 425 hrs @ pet store (current)
- I also helped raise chickens, and I occasionally help out a friend with a horse farm, so I have some livestock experience. Hoping to shadow a bovine vet soonish
- Only 175 clinic hours as mobile vet receptionist (current)
+ Some additional non-animal volunteer work; I also sponsor some local families' pet care costs through a non-profit
Sometimes I think I am a good, well-rounded prospective student with a lot of hobbies, life experiences, maturity, etc. that will help set me apart. Other times, I think I'm absolutely dreaming about being able to get into vet school at all.