31, Seeking Advice for Career Change and Starting Vet School Process
Hi all!
I'm in my early 30s and have been working at a service dog non-profit for close to 10 years. I've really enjoyed my time there, but am ready to seek a new career where I have more flexibility in location, can grow my scientific and practical knowledge, make new connections and continue to serve the community, and go back to school for topics that have always fascinated me! I'm realistic about loans and the commitment. Returning to school has been in the back of my brain for a few years now, but I was always holding myself back out of fear of change and stepping away from the known.
I have near 10 years of hands-on non-profit experience with dog training and care, as well as client interactions that involve teaching clients with disabilities animal care and handling, supporting them through transitions and difficult times, and problem-solving behaviors.
I majored in Ecology & Evolution and have a GPA of 3.8. I completed all core classes for most vet schools except for an Anatomy or Physiology type course which I plan to fulfill at a local college. I did graduate in 2017, so I am aware of the time constraints for applying for some programs.
My other next step is to shadow vet clinics, which I was hoping to do on weekends around my Monday-Friday job.
- What's your advice on accumulating enough vet shadowing time? Am I being realistic working a fulltime job and shadowing?
- What else would you suggest for adding to my experiences prior to applying?
- Any general advice?
- And lastly thank you to everyone out there who told me that 31 is not too late for a change!