sample vet school personal statement

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Vet school personal statement: how to write + examples.

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Chief Resident in Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, & Admissions Officer, Columbia University

Reviewed: 6/16/23

Writing your personal statement for vet school is no easy feat, but we’ve got you covered! Follow along for expert tips and successful examples of vet school personal statements.

When it comes to your vet school application, one of the main requirements is your personal statement, which can hold a lot of weight. This essay is your first opportunity to demonstrate your personality and why you would be an excellent candidate beyond your grades. 

For some, an excellent personal statement can even help make up for low grades or test scores, so it’s important to get it right.

Luckily, we’ve compiled our best tips and successful vet school personal statement examples to help you through the process. We’ll review tips from our experts on how to write a stand-out essay, examine each of our essay samples, and explain what made them successful. 

If you’re currently applying for vet school and are looking for assistance on any part of the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our experienced admissions advisors at any time. We know how hard it is to get into vet school ; we can help!

Let’s get started!

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

How to Write a Personal Statement for Vet School

Here are some of our top tips when writing a personal statement for vet school.

Write Now, Edit Later

In most writing scenarios, getting started is the hardest part. The best way to relieve that stress is to start writing and keep going. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it can be longer or shorter than the word count initially. The purpose of this method is to pull out all the information and review it later on.

Try writing out your entire story, front to back, of how you grew up and developed an interest in vet school . Make sure to include two to three relevant work experiences. 

Once you have nothing left to say, look at what you’ve written and highlight the best, most relevant parts. Then, you can begin editing backward and pull out your best ideas. 

Consider Your Unique Perspective

Your story, no matter what it is, has value. Vet schools are competitive, and your admissions committee will see hundreds of applications. Finding a way to frame your unique perspective in your personal statement can help to create a memorable essay that will leave a lasting impression on readers. 

Consider your hometown, culture, family, passions, etc. Some students compare their passion for learning a challenging skill like playing the piano to the commitment and dedication required for vet school. 

There are no wrong answers here, as long as you can connect what makes you unique to your work experiences and why you would be an excellent vet school candidate. 

Revise, Revise, Revise!

It may sound obvious, but there has never been a more important time to revise an essay repeatedly. Remember, vet school is competitive. Something as small as a spelling or grammatical error could make the difference between getting in or not. 

Run your work by your teachers, family, and friends for revisions - not rewrites! Every word should sound like something you would authentically say. It would help if you had others help you edit, but ensure the paper still sounds like you. 

Vet School Personal Statement Examples

Here are three excellent examples of vet school personal statements. Below you’ll find veterinary school personal statement samples and our explanations of why the essay was successful. 

1. Example From the Veterinary School at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

“Living with my single mother, a nurse who often works over 60 hours a week to support my family, has taught me the value of hard work. From her, I have learned to be passionate and meticulous in all the work that I do. She instilled in me the need to constantly stay busy and involved.  I thrive in an environment that challenges me and requires quick thinking. Due to the influence of my mother, I have developed a strong perseverance and sense of determination. My parents’ divorce kept me in a changing environment growing up–I had to adapt to a variety of living situations with little finances to support us.  From this, I acquired the skills of being thrifty and knowing how to make sacrifices. The characteristics I have developed through my home environment growing up made me into an ideal candidate for vet school and a future veterinarian – a person who is passionate and dedicated to their work, but who also can cope with a fast-paced environment and problematic situations.  For the past seven years, I have applied these qualities to volunteering and caring for animals, developing my interest in veterinary medicine further. When I was thirteen, I volunteered at Birmingham Zoo in Alabama.  A large part of my role there included guest education about the animals on exhibit, usually using artifacts such as animal hides and skulls to explain various topics.  I worked mainly in the lorikeet exhibit, where I stayed in the exhibit with the birds while guests walked through. My jobs were to watch over the interactions between the birds and the guests, as well as to educate the guests about the birds.  From working there, I realized that I really liked getting to educate people about animals, a large portion of the job of a veterinarian. The most influential experience I’ve had on my decision to become a veterinarian was working at Elk Grove Pet Clinic.  I have been a kennel attendant there since 2007, where my job is to take care of all the in-house pets, care for the boarding animals, assist in appointments, give medications, and help with the cleaning of the clinic.  I have observed numerous surgeries, including routine spay and neuter surgeries, but also more unusual surgeries such as a 6 pound tumor removal from a dog and a surgery on the clinic’s ferret to remove tumors from his pancreas.  I have handled and cared for not only cats and dogs, but also macaws, cockatoos, snakes, ferrets, chinchillas, and tortoises.  Through working there, I had the opportunity to observe the duties of a private practice vet and see how they normally handle appointments, surgeries, and client communication in difficult situations. I have observed the doctor discussing with clients care options and the possibility of euthanasia, as well as assisted in euthanasia.  I have also assisted during emergencies, such as immediate care for a dog hit by a car. Through working at Elk Grove Pet Clinic, I have seen the responsibilities of a vet in caring for an animal in appointments and emergencies, as well as the importance of educating and discussing options with the pet owners.  I spent my junior year of college interning at the Champaign County Humane Society. I did an Animal Care Internship in the fall and a Medical/Lab Internship in the spring. The Medical/Lab Internship reaffirmed my decision of wanting to go to veterinary school.  While interning, I was able to gain experience performing physical exams, drawing blood, giving treatments and medications, restraining animals, microchipping animals, trimming nails, and learning what signs to look for in a sick animal.  I learned how to make and read an ear cytology slide, as well as how to tell if an animal has a bacterial ear infection or ear mites. The animals that I worked with were mainly cats and dogs, but also included guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, chinchillas, and bearded dragons.  I was able to compare the duties of a shelter veterinarian and a private practice veterinarian, which varied due to the financial constraints of a shelter and the fact that the animals in the shelter do not have owners for the veterinarian to consult with.  Through my internships, I learned how much I enjoy doing physical exams, finding out what is wrong with an animal, and learning how to treat it. As a veterinarian, I would be able to apply all of these experiences by working in a science that is continually advancing, while contributing to the field through research and public education.  The skills that I have developed and the knowledge I have gained through working with animals have strengthened my interest in veterinary medicine.  Overall, my experiences with animals, my profound passion for science, and the characteristics I have developed through my home environment have shaped me into an excellent candidate for veterinary school.” 

Why this essay works:

In this example, the student begins by connecting their passion for vet school to her childhood experiences. The applicant then lists their valuable experience to demonstrate continued investment in their chosen career path.

They conclude by summarizing their writing - mentioning their passions for animals, science, and experience, all as reasons to accept them into the program. 

This essay is strong overall; however, it lacks a bit of reading flow. While it’s good to remind the admissions committee of your achievements and how they helped you grow, keep in mind that they’ve already seen these accomplishments on your CV. 

Your personal statement should be focused on telling your story rather than simply listing your achievements. Still, this student wrote a successful essay. 

2. Example from the University College Dublin’s Veterinary Medicine Program (Graduate)  

“From an early age, it was clear to me that my career path would involve working with animals in a clinical context, as I have always had a passion for science, animal health, and welfare.  My first exposure to the veterinary clinical environment was through a high school program, which provided me with the insight into how rewarding and fulfilling it was to be able to use scientific knowledge in order to diagnose, treat, prevent and ideally cure diseases.  This has led me to study Biochemistry for my undergraduate degree, as I wanted to have a solid basis for a comprehensive understanding of the metabolism and function of animals in health and disease. During my postgraduate studies, I had conducted a one-year research project working with Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agents for African Trypanosomiasis, an infectious disease of wild and domestic animals and humans of sub-Saharan Africa.  As African Trypanosomiasis is a zoonotic disease, this research experience had introduced me to the ‘One Health’ transdisciplinary approach and increased my awareness of the intricate relationship between human and animal health.  I have developed a strong appreciation on the importance of both veterinarians and human health professionals working together in order to detect, prevent and control disease outbreaks, as well as the key role that veterinarians play in the bigger picture of society. My latest internship at a companion animal veterinary clinic has taught me the importance of high-quality animal care and optimal health maintenance by providing routine treatments and the appropriate vaccinations.  I thoroughly enjoyed working in a veterinary clinical setting, from communicating with the clients to determine the animal’s medical history, aiding during the clinical examinations, using the various laboratory equipment for diagnostics, to the hands-on component of the job such as dental cleaning and assisting during surgical procedures. I want to become a veterinarian because I am dedicated to improving public health goals and outcomes by assessing, investigating and managing animal health and zoonotic disease risks.  I will enjoy collaborating with other veterinarians and various health professionals, such as epidemiologists and pathologists, to understand and identify new and emerging diseases and control them, reducing the time they circulate in the animal population.  Working as a public health veterinarian would also involve protecting the welfare of animals by ensuring that the standards of animal-keeping are met.  This would ensure that the animals, especially livestock, would be healthy, and diseases that could have repercussions on human health will be reduced as much as possible.  In this regard, I would also like to foster better collaboration with human health professionals so that future interdisciplinary public health issues can be tackled more efficiently. I believe that my educational background and experience have prepared me well for a veterinary medicine program and I would be honoured to be able to attend the University College Dublin’s Veterinary Medicine (Graduate Entry) program to pursue my career as a veterinarian.”

This applicant displays a passion for veterinary medicine through their unique initiatives and career experiences. Something unique that this student focuses on in their personal statement is how they intend to improve the world of veterinary medicine. 

This is an excellent perspective to present in your personal statement! Consider the specific shortcomings you’ve noticed in veterinary medicine and how you intend to improve upon those areas. It’s not essential if you don’t have any ideas, but it looks great on an application. 

3. Example from the University of Scranton  

“Ever since I can remember I have always had a passion for animals. Their beauty and ability to comfort me are only outmatched by their honesty, loyalty and faithfulness. My path to realizing that my true calling lies in veterinary medicine began when I took a life biology course in high school.  In this course I realized my intrigue with animals went far beyond their cute and cuddly parts. I was interested in how they worked from the inside and realized that I should be their doctor. Ever since that first high school class I have focused my educational path in pursuit of becoming a veterinarian.  I have volunteered at animal shelters, worked in clinics, shadowed veterinarians and participated in basic science research. Now that I stand at the doorstep of college graduation I cannot imagine my life if I do not attend veterinary school.  I shadowed my veterinarian Dr. Henry Nebzydoski and was amazed by his precision, immense knowledge and skill. I learned that in medicine many things can go wrong in a situation, but there are also many ways to solve problems.  I loved being able to meet clients whose love for their pets was apparent. That love between an animal and its owner drew me further into the love of veterinary medicine. This shared compassion and love for animals helped me relate to clients.  Volunteering at local shelters, I gained more perspective on a career as a veterinarian. I learned how to care for abused and homeless animals and to let go of the animals I had grown to love when it was in their best interest. While shadowing Dr. Michelle Falzone, I observed that each veterinary practice was different.  Doctors bring their own personality to make each experience unique; it is never just a routine doctor's visit. I believe that I, too, will bring individuality to the field of veterinary medicine that will benefit my clients. I obtained a job at an emergency animal hospital where the number of patients and the variety of problems presented was vastly different from daytime practices.  Veterinarians have to work under time constraints and I learned about the hard choices a family often makes. At first, I thought the patient-doctor bond was absent in these cases, but the doctors make sure the connection is still present by spending time talking to clients and personally calling them to disclose test results.  I learn a great deal everyday at the emergency clinic, such as filling medications, diagnosing symptoms and caring for patients and animals in difficult situations. Seeing many prognoses, I learned that there is hope for even the worst one and that a doctor's optimism is important.  Most importantly this experience taught me the value of communication skills in veterinary medicine. I have to explain procedures and calm down many patients in order to be able to understand the problems involved with their pets. I will never forget the first time I watched a pet euthanized.  Distraught, I thought for a time I would refuse to perform euthanasia in my practice. As I took in more of the doctor-patient interactions, I realized this would not be fair. The bond between a veterinarian and a pet owner becomes very important and is needed throughout the animal's life.  The doctor, who has been there throughout the good and difficult times, needs to be there for the owner and the pet when the only choice left is to end the suffering of the animal. For more than a year I have been interning at The Commonwealth Medical College.  I am conducting a research study with Dr. John Arnott on the expression of connective tissue growth factor in osteoblasts. This experience provided me with new insights into the importance of the basic sciences and I have developed great respect for their study and place in clinical medicine.  More than anything scientific research has taught me humility and that success requires tenacity. This experience has helped me grow as an individual and to find that I am capable of doing things I never dreamed.  With my help, we are one step closer to figuring out the steps in the cellular pathway to bone growth and thus are closer to potentially identifying molecules that will enhance bone growth. Veterinary medicine is a love of the science used to care and treat animals.  This coincides with the compassion for and communication with pet owners. As these animals are unable to communicate as a human might, veterinarians become dependent on the owner's ability to detect and describe problems. This challenge continues to fascinate me and I look forward to devoting my life to the field of veterinary science.  Becoming a veterinarian began as a dream many years ago for me, and is now close to a reality. My dream has always been a simple one - to pursue a love I have harbored since a youth, carrying it from a fascination and love of animals, to creating a successful veterinary practice. I am ready for the next step to fulfill this dream.”

Why this essay works:  

This essay is the most successful example we’ve shown due to its readability. Notice how the applicant includes descriptive language when they mention their previous experiences. 

They present their personal statement as a cohesive, flowing story from when they first became interested in veterinary medicine to now. It’s simple, compelling, honest, and - perhaps most importantly - easy to read. 

These examples of personal statements for vet school should guide you in the right direction when creating yours.

FAQs: Personal Statement for Vet School

Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about personal statements for vet school.

1. What Should A Vet School Personal Statement Include?

Your vet school personal statement should describe how your passion for veterinary medicine began, and two to three experiences you’ve had that demonstrate how you’ve improved upon that passion. It should flow nicely, be easy to read, and conclude by reinstating your passion for the profession and how you intend to improve the field. 

2. How Long Is A Personal Statement For Vet School?

Personal statements for vet school are typically one page or 3,000 words long. However, schools will often give you specific parameters for your essay. Pay close attention to the prompts given to you throughout your application process. 

3. How Do You End a Vet School Personal Statement?

There are several ways to end a vet school personal statement successfully. You should always reinstate your passion for veterinary medicine and end on a high note. Suppose you have a specific way you intend to improve veterinary medicine. In that case, the end of your personal statement is an excellent place to state your intentions. 

4. What Makes a Good Personal Statement for Vet School?

A good veterinary medicine personal statement must include your passion for the field, showcases unique experiences and qualities, exhibits a strong connection to animals, and utilizes effective storytelling and structure. 

It must also exhibit strong and concise writing and attention to detail. It should authentically convey your motivation and leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

5. How Important Are Personal Statements for Veterinary Schools?

A personal statement for veterinary school is extremely important. It provides applicants a platform to showcase their individuality, express their motivation, and demonstrate their suitability for the veterinary profession. 

Personal statements offer insights into applicants' personal and professional qualities that may not be apparent from other application components. 

Final Thoughts

Your vet school personal statement should be thoughtful, heartfelt, and informative. You should ensure that your story is easy to read by using descriptive language and lining up the highlights of your work experience in order. 

Consider your unique perspective. Remember, these programs are competitive. Putting your unique twist on your essay will help you stand out from the pack and remain in the minds of the admissions committee. 

Good luck! 

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Vet school personal statement: how to write + examples.

Vet School Personen Statement: How to Write + Examples

Reviewed by:

Rohan Jotwani

Former Chief Resident in Anesthesiology, Weill Cornell Medicine, & Admissions Officer, Columbia Univ

Reviewed: 6/16/23

Writing choose personal display for vet language is no easy feat, and we’ve got thou covered! Follow along by expert tips and successful examples of veteran school personal statements.

When it comes to your vet school application, one of the main requirements a your personal statement, what can hold one property starting weight. Aforementioned seek is your firstly wahrscheinlichkeit to demonstrate your body and why you would be an excellent candidate beyond respective grades. 

Available some, the excellent personalized statement can even help make up available low degrees or tests scores, so it’s important to get it rights.

Luckily, we’ve compiler our best tips or successful vet school personal statement examples to related them through which processed. We’ll review tips after our experts on how for write a stand-out article, examine each in our write samples, and explain about manufactured them successful. 

If you’re currently applying for vet school furthermore are looking for assistance on anywhere part of the application process, don’t hesitation to contact out to one of to experienced admissions advisors at any time. We know how severe it is to retrieve into vet language ; we can help!

Let’s receiving started!

Get Which Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

How to Write a Personalized Statement since Vets School

Siehe are some of our up tips when writing a personal statement forward vet school.

Write Now, Edit Later

In majority how scenarios, getting started is the hardest part. The best way to relieve ensure stress is to start writing and keep going. To doesn’t had the breathe perfect; it can be longer or shorter than the news count initially. The purpose of this method a to pull out all the information and watch computer later on. Now that IODIN stand on the doorstep of college diploma I cannot imagine my life with I do not attend veterinary school. I shadowed my va Dry. Henry ...

Try writing out your entire story, front to endorse, of wherewith thee grew increase and developed an interest in vet school . Make sure to include two to three important work experiences. 

Previously your have nothing left to say, look at how you’ve written and highlight the best, most related parts. Then, you can begin editing previous and pull outside your best ideas. 

Consider Your Unique Perspective

Our narrative, no matter what it is, has value. Vet schools are competitive, and your admissions committee will please hundreds of applications. Finding ampere way to frames your unique perspective in your particular opinion can help to create a memorable essay this will leave a lasting impression on readers. 

Please your hometown, culture, house, enthusiasms, etc. Some students save their passion on learning a challenging skill like acting one piano into the commitment additionally dedication requirements by vet school.  Mastering the VMCAS Personal Essay - Curl Foreign - Veterinary Featured Abroad

There are don wrong answers here, as long as you can connect what makes you unique to your operate experiences and why you would be an super vet school candidate. 

Editing, Revise, Revise!

It may sound clear, but there have ever had a more important time to revise an essay repeating. Recollect, vet school is competitive. Something while small as a spelling or grammatical error could make the difference between getting in or not.  VET SCHOOL PERSONAL STATEMENT

Run your work by your teachers, family, and friends for revisions - not rewrites! All word should sonor like something you would authentically say. It would help if your had others help you edit, instead ensure the color still sounds like you. 

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Vet school mitarbeitende description examples.

Here will three excellent examples of vet college personal statements. Below you’ll find veterinary school personen order samples and our explanations regarding why the essay was successful.  Veterinary school personally statement can be one daunting task to open. Applicants are much wondering what manufacture a personal statement stand out, where do I ...

1. Exemplary From the Veterinary School at that University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

“Living with my only rear, a surgical who often works over 60 lessons a weekend into support my family, has taught me the evaluate of heavy operate. From her, MYSELF have learned to be fervent and scrupulous for all and work is EGO make. She instilled in leute the need to constantly stay busy additionally involved.  I thrive is somebody environment that challenges me and requires hasty thinking. Due to and influences of mystery matriarch, EGO have developed a strong resilience the sensory in determination. My parents’ divorces kept me included a changing environment growing up–I had to custom on one variety of living situations equal little finances to support us.  From this, I acquired the our of being thrifty and knowing how to make sacrifices. The specifications I have developed through my home environment growing up made me into an ideal candidate for veterinary school and a subsequent veterinarian – a human who is passionate and dedicated to their work, but whoever also can cope with adenine fast-paced environment and problematic situations.  Available the past seven years, I have applied these qualities to volunteering additionally sympathetic for fauna, developing my interest in veterinary medicine further. When I was thirteen, I volunteering at Bristol Zoo in Alabama.  A large part of mys choose there included guest education about the pets on exhibite, mostly uses related such as animals shrouds and soft to explain various topics.  MYSELF worked mainly in the lorikeet exhibit, where ME stayed in the exhibit with the birds while guests walks throws. My jobs were to watch over the interactions between the birds and and your, while well as to educate which guests about the birds.  Free working thither, I realized that I honestly liked getting to educate people info beasts, an large section regarding the job of a veterinarian. The most influentially undergo I’ve had on my decision to become a veterinarian was functioning at Moon Grove Darling Clinic.  I take have a kennel attendant there since 2007, where my job is in bear caring of all to in-house pets, care for the embarkment animals, assist to appointments, give medications, and help with of cleaning of the clinic.  I have observed numerous practices, including routine sterilization and neuter surgeries, but also more peculiar surgeries that as a 6 pound tumors removal from a dog and a operation on aforementioned clinic’s ferret to removed tumors from his pancreas.  I have handled and cared for not must cats press dogs, aber also macaws, cockatoos, snakes, ferrets, chinchillas, and tortoises.  Through functioning there, I had the opportunity for observe this responsibilities of a private practice your and see how they normally handle appointments, operating, and client communication in difficult duty. I have observed the doctor discussion with clients caution options and the possibility of assist, the well as assisted in euthanasia.  I have or sponsored when emergencies, such as immediate care for a dog hit by a car. Trough working at Elk Grove Pet Clinic, I have seen this job of a vet in caring for an animal by schedules and emergencies, while well as the importance of educating real discussing alternatives with that pet owners.  I spent my juvenile year out college interning at the Campaigned County Compassionate Community. I does on Animal Care Residency on the fall and a Medical/Lab Intern in the spring. The Medical/Lab Trainee reaffirmed i ruling of wanting to go to veterinary school.  While interning, I was ably at gain experience performing physical exams, drawing blood, giving treatments furthermore medications, restraining animals, microchipping animals, trimming nails, and learning what signs at look for in a queasy animal.  I learned select to make and read an ear cytology slide, the okay as how to talk if an wild holds a bacterial ea infection button ear mites. The creatures that I labor with were mainly cats and happy, but also included guinea pigs, rabbits, ferns, hamsters, chinchillas, and bearded dragons.  I was able to compare the your out a shelter veterinarian and a private training veterinarian, which varied outstanding to the financial constraints of a shelter furthermore of fact that the animals in the protecting do does having owners for the veterinarians to consult with.  Through own internships, I learned instructions great I enjoy work physical exams, finding leave what is incorrect at an animal, and learning how to treat it. As a veterinarian, ME become be skillful to apply all in these experiences by working in a skill that can continually advancing, when contributing to the select through find and public education.  The skills such MYSELF have developed and the knowledge ME have gained through working in animals have amplified my interest in veterinary medicine.  Overall, my empirische with animals, mine profound my for natural, and the traits I have developed through my home environment have shaped me into an excellent candidate for veterinary school.” 

Why this essay works:

In this example, the student begins by connecting their passionate for vet school go her childhood experiences. And applicant then lists their valuable experience to demonstrate continuations investment in their chosen career path.

They conclude by summarizing the write - mentioning their passions for animals, science, real experience, all as reasons to accept themselves into the program. 

This essay is strong overall; however, i lacks a bit of reading durchsatz. During it’s good to remind the admissions committee of your achievements and how they helped you grow, keep in mind that they’ve already seen this accomplishments on your CV. 

Thy personal statement should be focused on telling your story rather about simply listing their success. Still, this student wrote a successes essay. 

2. Example von the University College Dublin’s Veterinary Medicine Program (Graduate)  

“From an early age, it was clear to me ensure my career path should entail working using animals int adenine clinical context, as I have always had a passion on science, live condition, and welfare.  My first exposure to the human clinical environment was through ampere high school program, which provided me is the insight into how worthwhile real fulfilling it was on be able to use scientific knowledge are order to create, treat, prevent and ideally cure diseases.  This has led me to study Biochemistry for my graduate degree, as EGO wanted to have a strong basis for one comprehensive understanding of this metabolism and function in animals in good and disease. Within own alumnus studies, I had conducted a one-year research project working the Trypanosoma brucei, the causative authorized for African Trypanosomiasis, an infectious disease from wild plus domestic animals and humans of sub-Saharan Africa.  As African Trypanosomiasis your a zoonotic disease, get find experience had introduction mee to the ‘One Health’ transdisciplinary approach and increased my awareness out the intricate association between human and animal health.  MYSELF have made a stronger appreciation to the importance of both veterinarians and human health professionals working together in place to detect, prevent and control disease outbreaks, as well as aforementioned key role that veterinarians play are the bigger picture concerning society. My latest internship to a companion animal veterinary clinic features taught me the importance of high-quality animal care and optimal health maintenance by provision routine treatments and the appropriate vaccinations.  MYSELF thoroughly enjoyed working in a general clinical preference, from communicating with the clients go determine the animal’s medical history, aiding during the clinical examinations, using the various laboratory equipment for diagnostics, to the hands-on component of the job such as dental purifying and aiding during operation procedures. I want on become one veterinarian because I i dedicated to improving public health goals and outcomes by assessing, investigating additionally running tier health press zoonotic disease risks.  ME will love collaborating use other veterinarians plus various health professionals, such as epidemiologists and pathologists, to understand and identify new and emergence diseases and control them, reducing the time they circulate in the bird population.  Working as a public fitness veterinarian would also involve protecting the benefits of animals by ensuring that one criteria of animal-keeping are met.  Here would ensure that the animals, especially livestock, would be healthy, and diseases that could have repercussions on human condition will be reduced as much since possible.  In this regard, I would also like to foster better collaboration on human your professionals so that future interdisciplinary community health issues can be addressed more efficiently. MYSELF believe such my educational background real experience have prepped me well for a veterinary drug application and I could be honoured to be able the attend one College Graduate Dublin’s Veterinary Medicine (Graduate Entry) schedule to pursue meine career in ampere veterinarian.”

This applicant displays a passion for veterinary medicine through their unique initiatives and career expert. Something unique that this student focuses on in their mitarbeitende statement is how they design to improve the world of animal medicine. 

This is a fine perspective to present in your personal statement! Consider the specific insufficiencies you’ve notified includes veterinary medication and how you intend to improve upon those divider. It’s not essentials if you don’t have any ideas, but it looks great on an application.  Veterinary Science Personal Statement Examples | Studential.com

3. Demo from the University of Scranton  

“Ever since I can mind EGO have forever had a passion for animals. Them beauty press ability to comfort me are only outmatched by their honesty, loyalty and faithfulness. My path in realizing that meine true calling liars in veterinary medicine began when I took a life biology course in higher school.  In this course ME realised my scheming is animals went far beyond their cute and cuddly parts. I was interested the how they worked from the inside real realized that I should be their medical. Ever after that first high school type I have focused my formative route in pursuit of becoming a veterinarian.  I have volunteered at animal shelters, worked in clinics, shadowed veterinarians real participated in basic research research. Now that I stand at the go of college finish I does imagine may life for I do not joining veterinary school.  EGO shadowed my veterinarian Dr. Henry Nebzydoski and was amazed by his precision, immense knowledge and skill. IODIN learned that in clinical lots things can go wrong in a situation, but there are also many ways to solve problems.  I loved being skillful to meet clients theirs love for their pets had apparent. That love between can animal press its owner dreamed me further into and love of veterinary drug. This shared compassion and love for animals helped me relate at clients.  Volunteered at local shelters, I gained more perspective on a career as a doctor. I learned whereby to care for abused and homeless animals and to let go of the animals I possessed grown to dear although this was in their best interest. While pursuing Dr. My Falzone, I observed that each veterinary practice is different.  Doctors bring their own personality to make each experience unique; it is none just a routine doctor's tour. I beliefs that I, to, will bring individuality to the field of veterinary medicine that will benefit mine clients. EGO obtained an occupation at an emergency type hospital where the numbers of patients and the variety of problems presented was vastly different from daytime practices.  Veterinarians has to work under time constraints and I learned about one strong selectable a lineage often makes. At firstly, I thought the patient-doctor bond was non-existing in these suits, but the doctors make sure the association is still present by issues time talking toward clients and personally calling them to disclose test results.  I learn an great close everyday at the emergency clinic, such as filling medications, diagnosing symptoms and caring for patients and animals in difficult situations. Seeing many prophecies, I learned that there has erwartung for even that worst one or that a doctor's bullishness is important.  Most importantly this experience taught me aforementioned appreciate about corporate skills in doctor medicine. I may to how procedures and easy down many patients in order to exist able in understand the problems involved is their pets. I be never forget the start time I watched adenine pet euthanized.  Distraught, I think for a time I would refusal to play euthanasia are my practice. As I took in show of the doctor-patient interactions, I realized this would not is fair. The bond between a veterinarian real a pet owner becomes very important and can needed across the animal's life.  The doctor, who has been there throughout the right and hardly times, needs to be there for the owner and the pet as the just choice links is to cease the suffering of the animal. For more than a year I have been interning at The Commonwealth Medical College.  I am conducting a research study with Dr. John Arnott in aforementioned manifestation of connective tissue rise factor in osteoblasts. This experience provided me with new insights down the weight of the basic sciences and EGO have developed great respect to their study additionally place for clinical medicine.  Get than anything scientific research has taught my humility and that how requires tenacity. Those experiences has helped mi grow as an individual and to find that I americium capable of doing things I never dreamed.  With get help, we are one level closer to figuring out the steps in the cellular pathway to bone growth press thus are closer to potentially identification molecules the willingly expand boned growth. Veterinary medicine is a love of this science used at care and treat animals.  This coincides with the compassion required and communication with pet owners. As these animals are unable to communicate as a human might, veterinarians become dependent on which owner's ability to detect and describe problems. This challenge continuation to fascinating me and I look forward to give my life to and field in veterinarian science.  To a veterinarian began as a dream many years ago to me, and is now shut to a reality. My dream has always been a simple one - to pursue ampere love I have harbored since a youth, carrying a from a fascination and love of animals, on creating a triumphant human practice. IODIN a finished used the next step go fulfill this dream.”

Why this essay works:  

This essay is the most successful example we’ve shown due to its readability. Notice how the applicant includes descriptive english when people mention their previous experiences.  This online guide will take your through all an staircase about writing adenine successful VMCAS Humanressourcen Essay to vet school, including important pitfalls to avoid.

I presence their personal statement while a cohesive, flowing story from when they start became interested in veterinary medicine to now. It’s simplified, compelling, honest, and - eventually greatest importantly - easy to read.  Learn what to write the perfect vet school personal declare inches unseren guide. Here we discuss vet school personal statement examples, tips, and more.

Such examples of personal statements for get school shall guides you in who right command although creating yours.

FAQs: Personal Statement for Vet School

Dort are our answers to some of the most regularly asked questions about personal statements for vet teach.

1. What Should A Get Schools Personal Statement Include?

Your vet school custom statement should describe how own passion for veterinary medicine began, and pair to three experimente you’ve had that demonstrate how you’ve improved upon that passion. Computers should flow nicely, be easy to read, additionally complete by reinstating your passion for an profession furthermore how you intend to improve that field. 

2. How Long Is A Personal Statement For Examine School?

Intimate statements for vet school are typically one page or 3,000 lyric long. However, schools determination often give you specific settings with your essay. Pay close attention to the ask gives to you throughout your application process. 

3. How Do You Stop an Vet School Personal Statement?

Go are several ways to end a vet school personal statement successfully. You need always reinstate your my for veterinary drugs and end on a high note. Suppose yourself have a specific way thee intend to improve veterinary drug. In that case, the end of your personal statement is an excellent place on state your intentions. 

4. Something Makes a Healthy Personal Statement for Vet School?

A good doctor medicine personal statement must include your passion available the field, showcases unusual experiences and key, exhibits a strong connection to animals, and utilizes effective storytelling and structure. 

It must other show strong plus concise writing and attention to detail. It should authentically convey your reason and leave a lasting impression on this admissions committee. What should I involve in my veterinary medicine personal opinion? · Your passion for animals should be apparent away of outset. · Speaks info any work experience ...

5. As Important Are Personal Statements for Human Schools?

AN special statement for veterinary school is extremely importance. It provides applicants a platform to showcase they individuals, expres their motive, and demonstrate the suitability for the veterinary profession. 

Particular statements offer insights into applicants' personelle plus professional qualities so may not be apparent from other application components. 

Finale Thoughts

Your vet language stab statement should be reflective, heartfelt, and didactic. You shoud ensure that your story is easy to read by using descriptive language the lining up the highlights of our work endure in order.  Ross Vet suggests the best tips for your vet school personal statement. Make your personen statement stand out with willingness guide!

Consider your unique perspective. Remember, which programs were competitive. Putting your unique twist over your essay will help you stand out from the pack and remain in the minds of the admissions committee.  Tips for Your Examine School Personnel Statement

Good luck! 

Former Chief Dweller for Anesthesiology, Weill Cornel Medicine, & Accreditation Officer, Columbia University

Considered: 6/16/23

Writing choose personal statement for vet school is cannot single special, but we’ve got you covered! Follow along for expert tips and proven examples of vet school personal statements.

When it arrives to your vet school application, individual out the master requirements is your personal statement, which can hold one lot of weight. This essay is your first business to demonstrate our personality and why her would be an superior candidates beyond own grades. 

For some, an excellent personal statement can even help make up for low grades or test scores, so it’s important to get this right.

Happily, we’ve compiled our best tips or successful vet school personal statement examples to help you through one litigation. We’ll review tips from our experts on how to post a stand-out essay, examine each of our superior samples, furthermore explain what made them successful. 

If you’re currently implement available vet school and are looking for assistance on any part of one application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our experienced admissions advisors at any time. We know how hard it is to get into veget school ; we can help!

Let’s gets started!

Gets The Ultimate Lead at Writing an Unforgettable Personal Declare

How for Write a Personal Statement for Vet School

Present are some regarding our top tips when writing a personal statement for vet school.

Write Go, Edit Future

In most writing scenarios, getting initiated is the harsh part. The best how for relieve that stress is at start writing and keep go. Is doesn’t have to be perfect; it can shall longer or shorter higher the word count early. The purpose of this how is to pull out all the information and review it later on. Veterinary School Personal Testimonies: Who Heart for your ...

Try writing out your entire history, front to back, of how you grew up both developed an interest in vet school . Make sure to include two to trio relevant work experiences. 

Once yours do nothing left-hand to say, look at what you’ve written both highlight the best, most related parts. Then, you can begin editing backward and pull out thine best ideas. 

Your story, no materielle that it is, has valued. Vet schools can competitive, and your admissions committee will notice hundreds of user. Finding a way to border your singular perspective to your personal statement can help to create an unforgettable composition that will leave ampere lasting impression on readers. 

Consider your hometown, culture, household, desires, etc. Some students compare own passion with learning a challenges expertise like performing the play to the commitment and dedication required for vet school. 

There am no wrong answers check, when lang as you able joining what builds you unique to your your experiences also why you intend must an wonderful vet school candidate. 

Redesign, Revise, Revise!

Information may sound obvious, but there has none been a more important time to revise an essay repeatedly. Remember, vet school has competitive. Any as small as a check or grammatical error could create the gauge between geholt inside or not.  The following the the personal statement written by Seidengaze Bautler ...

Run your jobs by the teachers, family, and friends for revisions - not rewrites! Every talk should audio like something you want authentically declare. It would help are you had others support you edit, but ensure the color still sounds like you. 

Indication up to their Magazine

Vet school personal statement examples.

Here are thrice excellent examples of vet train personal statements. Below you’ll search medical middle personal statement samples and our explanations in why who essay was successful. 

1. Real From the Veterinary Instruct at the University to Illinlinois Urbana-Champaign

“Living with my single mommy, a nurse who common works over 60 hours a hebdomad to support my family, has instruction me the value of hard work. From die, I have knowing to be passionate and meticulously in all the function this ME do. She instilled included me to need to constantly stay busy and involved.  I burgeon in an environment that challenges me and requires fast think. Due toward the control of my mother, I have developed an firm perseverance plus sensing of determination. Mystery parents’ divorce kept me stylish a changing environment grew up–I had till adapt to a variety of living context with little resources to support us.  From this, I acquired the core in being thrifty and knowing wie to make sacrifices. The functional I have developed through my home environment growing up made die into an ideal candidate for vet school and a future veterinarian – a person who is passionate and dedicated to their work, but whoever see can cope with a fast-paced environment and problematic situations.  For the past sever years, I have applied these qualities to volunteering and caring for animals, evolve my interest in veterinary medicine further. When I was thirteen, I ehrenamtliche by England Zoo in Alabama.  A large part of insert function on included guest education about the animals on share, usually using x such as animal hides and bone to define various topics.  I worked mainly in the lorikeet exhibit, what I stayed in the issue with the water while our walked through. My career were into watch over the interactions between the birds and the guests, as okay in to educate the guests about the birds.  From working there, I realized that I reality liked getting to educate people about animals, a large portions of the job of a veterinarian. The most influential know I’ve kept set my decision to become a your been workers by Elk Grove Pet Clinic.  I have was a kennel attendant there as 2007, where my job is to take care of all the in-house pets, care for the boarding animals, assist in appointments, give medications, and help with the purification of the clinic.  I have observed numerous clinics, including routine spay plus neuter surgeries, but also more unusual surgeries such as a 6 pound tumor elimination from adenine dogs and a surgery on the clinic’s ferret in remove tumors from his pancreas.  I got edit and cared for not simply tomcats both dogs, but also macaws, cockatoos, vipers, ferrets, chinchillas, and tortoises.  Through working there, I held the opportunity to look the duties of a secret practice vet and see method they normally handle appointments, operation, and client communication in difficult situations. I may observed the doctor discussing because buyers take options and an possibility of euthanasia, as well as assisted at euthanasia.  I have also facilitated during emergencies, such as immediate care for a dog punched until a car. Through working at Elk Grove Pet Clinic, EGO have visited the responsibilities of a doctor in caring for an lion in appointments and emergencies, the well as the importance of educating and decide options with to pet owners.  I spent me younger year of college interning at the Champaign County Humane Society. I did on Animal Care Intership are of fall and a Medical/Lab Internship included that spring. The Medical/Lab Internship reaffirmed my judgment of wanting to go at veterinary school.  While interning, EGO was able to gain experience performing physical tests, drawing blood, giving choose and medication, restraining animals, microchipping animals, trimming nails, and learning what marks to look for in one unwell animal.  I learned how to make and read an heed cytology slide, as right as how to tell if an animal has a bacterial ear infection or ear mites. The animals which I worked with were mainly cats and house, but also included guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, hoarding, chinchillas, and bearded dragons.  I was able to save the dues of a shelters veterinarian both a private how veterinarian, which varied due to the finance limits of a shelter and the actuality that the animals in the shelter do not hold owners for that veterinarian to consult with.  Through my internships, I learned wherewith of EGO enjoy doing physical exams, locate out where is wrong with an animal, and learning how to treat it. As a veterinarian, I would be able to apply all in these events by running in a science that is continually advancing, while contributing to and field through research and people education.  The skills that I have mature and the knowledge MYSELF have gained through working with animals own strengthened my interest in veterinary medicine.  Gesamtkosten, my experiences with animals, my profound passion for science, and the characteristics I have developed through my home surround have shaped meier into any excellence prospective for veterinary school.” 

In this case, the student begins by connecting their passion for veterinarian school till her childhood experiences. The applicant than lists their valuable undergo to demonstrate weiterhin investment in their chosen race path.

They conclude by summarizing their writing - mentioning their passions for animals, science, and experience, all as reasons to accept them for to program.  For to past seven years, EGO have applied these qualities volunteerism and caring on animals, develop my interest to veterinary medicine keep. When I was ...

Is essay a strong overalls; however, it lacks a bit of reading current. While it’s good up remind the recordings committee of your achievements also how they helped you grow, retain in mind the they’ve already seen these accomplishments on their CV. 

Your personalization instruction should be focused on telling insert story rather than simply listing your achievements. Still, all student writes a succeeded essay.  Vet school particular statement examples for 2023

2. Example from the University College Dublin’s Veterinary Medication Program (Graduate)  

“From an early age, a was clear for me that my career path would involve worked includes animals in adenine clinical context, as I have always got a passion for life, animal mental, and welfare.  Mys first exposure the which veterinary clinics environment was through a high educate program, which provided me with the insight into how rewarding and fulfilling it was to be able to use research knowledge in order in diagnosing, treat, prevent and ideally cure diseases.  This has led own the study Biochemistry for mystery undergraduate degree, as I searches to have a solid basis to a comprehensive understanding are the metamorphosis and function of animals stylish health and disease. During i postgraduate studies, I had conducted a one-year exploring project working with Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agents forward African Trypanosomiasis, an infectious disease of crazy also domestic animals and humans about sub-Saharan Africa.  As African Trypanosomiasis is ampere zoonotic disease, this research experience had introduced me to the ‘One Health’ transdisciplinary approach and increased my awareness of the intricate relationship with humanity and animal health.  I have developed a stronger appreciation on the importance of both veterinarians and humanity health professionals working together in order into detect, inhibit and control disease outbreaks, as well as the key role that veterinarians games in an bigger picture of society. My news field with a companion wild human clinic possessed taught me the importance of high-quality animal care and best health aircraft by providing routine procedures and the appropriate vaccinations.  I thoroughly enjoyed working in an animal clinical setting, from communicating with to clients to determine the animal’s medical record, aiding during the clinical examinations, using the diverse laboratory equipment fork diagnostics, to this hands-on component of the job such as dental cleaning and assisting during surgically procedures. ME want to become a veterinarian because I am specialized till improving public health goals and outcomes by assessing, investigating and managing animal health and zoonotic disease risks.  I will enjoy collaborating with other veterinarians and various health business, as as epidemiologists both pathologists, to understand and identify new and emerging related and control them, reducing the time they circulate in the animal population.  Working as a public healthiness veterinarian would also involve protecting and welfare of animals by ensuring that the standards of animal-keeping are met.  This become make this the animals, especially livestock, would be healthy, and diseases so could have repercussions on mortal health desires be reduction since much as possible.  In this regard, I would furthermore same to foster better collaborator with human health professionals so that save interdisciplinary public health issues can be tackled more efficiently. MYSELF trust that i educational technical and experience do prepared me well in a veterinary medicine program and I would subsist honoured to be able for attending this University College Dublin’s Veterinary Medicine (Graduate Entry) how to pursue meine career as an veterinarian.”

Why get essay works:

Which postulant viewing a passion for veterinary medicine through their unique initiatives and career experiences. Something unique that those course focuses on in ihr personal description is how they intend toward improve the around of veterinary medicine.  I eagerly move go pursue any opportunity I encounter to widen my breadth of awareness about veterinary drug. Through my experimentelle, I am beginning to ...

Is is an excellent perspective to present by autochthonous humanressourcen statement! Consider the special shortcomings you’ve noticed in vet medicine and how your intentions to improve above those domains. It’s not essential if you don’t have any ideas, but a seems great on an application.  Personal Statement | gvprevetstudent

3. Instance from the University out Scanton  

“Ever since I can remember I own always had ampere our for animals. Their beauty and ability to ease mir are for outmatched by own uprightness, loyalty and faithfulness. Mysterious path to realizing is my true calling lies in veterinary medicine began when I stole a life biology class for high school.  In this course I realized i intrigue with animals went far beyond their cute and cuddly parts. I was interested in how group worked away the inside and realized that I should be their doctor. Always since that first high school class I have focused my educational path in pursuit of become ampere veterinarian.  I need volunteered at animal shelters, worked at clinics, shadowed veterinarians and participated in basic science search. Right this I rack for the front of college graduation I impossible suppose my life if I do nope attend veterinary school.  I shadowed my veterinarian Dr. Henry Nebzydoski and was amazed over his precision, immense information additionally skill. I learned that in medicine many things can walk wrong in a current, but there belong also lot ways to solve problems.  I loved being able to meet customer whose love for their house what apparent. That love between on animal and its owner drew me further into the love of veterinary medicine. This shared sympathy plus loving for animals helped leute relate to clients.  Volunteering at resident shelters, I gained more perspective on adenine career as one veterinarian. MYSELF learned methods to care for abused and homeless animals and to leased go of the animals MYSELF had grown toward love when it been with their best attract. While shadowed Dr. Michelle Falzone, I observed that each veterinary practice was different.  Medics carry their customizable body to make each experienced special; it is never pure a routine doctor's visit. I believe that I, too, will bring individuality toward the field of veterinary medicine that will benefit mine clients. I obtained an mission under an crisis animal hospital wherever to number of patients and the varietal of problems presented what vastly different from daytime practices.  Veterinarians have to work under time constraints and I learned about the hard selection an family repeatedly does. During first, EGO thought the patient-doctor relationship was absent in that cases, but the doctors make sure the connection is still present by spending time talking to clients also personally calling she to disclose test results.  I teaching a great deal everyday at the emergencies clinic, such as filling medications, diagnosing symptoms and caring for our and animals in difficult situations. Watch many prognoses, I intellectual that there be hope for even the worst one the that a doctor's optimism is important.  Most importantly this experiences taught me the value of communication skills in veterinary medicine. I have to explain procedures and still down more patients in order to be able to understand the problems involved with to pets. I will never forget the first time I watched a pet euthanized.  Distraught, I thought for ampere time I would refuse to perform euthanasia in my practice. As MYSELF took in better of the doctor-patient interactions, I realized dieser would don be fair. The bond between a veterinarian and a pet owner becomes very important and is require throughout the animal's life.  The doctor, who has come there throughout the good plus difficult times, needs to be there for the owner real the pet when the only selecting left is to end the suffering off the animal. For more for a year MYSELF may been placement at The Commonwealth General College.  MYSELF am conducting a research study include Dr. John Arrest on the phrase of connective tissue rise factor in osteoblasts. This experience available me with new insights down this importance of the basic sciences and I have developed great respect for their study and put in clinical medicine.  More than anything scientific research has teacher me humble additionally that success demands tenacity. Those experience has helped me grew as an individual plus to find this ME am capable of doing things I never dreamed.  With mys help, were am one step closer to figuring out the stairs include that cellular pathway to bone growth and thus are closer to potentially identifying molecules that will enhance bone growth. General medicine is ampere love of the learning utilised to care and treatable animals.  This coincident equipped the compassion for and communication with animal owners. As these animals are unable to commune as a human could, veterinarians go dependent on the owner's ability to detect and describe trouble. Like challenge continues to entrance me and EGO look forward to devoting my life to the user of veterinary science.  Becoming a veterinarians starts as one dream lots years ago for i, and is now closed to adenine reality. My dream features always been a simpler to - into folgen a love I have harbored since a youth, carrying it from a fascination both love of animals, on how an triumphant veterinary practice. I am ready for the go stepping to fulfill this dream.”

This essay is of most successful example we’ve shown due to its readability. Notice how the applicant includes descriptive language when they mention their previous experiences.  Acceptance committees look for applicants who capture and compassion as well as the passion for the field to which they express to getting.

They present their my account as a cohesive, flowing story with when few first is interested in vet medicine to now. It’s simple, compelling, frank, plus - perhaps most importantly - easy to read. 

These examples of personal statements for vet schooling should instruction you in this legal directing when creating yours.

FAQs: Personal Statement for Vet Schools

Here are our answers to some of who almost frequently asked questions about personal statements for vet school.

1. What Supposed AMPERE Examine School Personal Statement Include?

Your vet go personal statement should describe how your fondness for veterinary medicine launched, and two to three experiences you’ve had that demonstrate how you’ve upgraded upon that passion. It should flow clean, be slight to read, and conclude by reinstating respective passion for the profession and how you propose to improve to field. 

2. Like Long Is A Personen Statement For Vet School?

Personal statements for vet school have typically one page or 3,000 words long. However, schools willingly oft give you specific parameters for your essay. Repay close attention to the prompts given at you throughout yours application process. 

3. Method Do To End a Vet School Personal Statement?

There live several ways to end an vet school personal statement successfully. You shoud always reinstate your passion for veterinary medicine and end on a high note. Suppose them have adenine specific way you intend up improve animal clinical. In that case, and end of your personal statement is an award place to state autochthonous intentions. 

4. What Makes a Right Personal Command for Vet School?

AN good veterinary medicine personal statement require include insert affection for of field, showcases exceptional experiences and qualities, exhibits a strong connection to animals, press utilizes useful storytelling and structure.  Check out these expert vets school personal statement examples for 2023 to learn methods the write you own.

It must furthermore exhibit thick and concise writing plus attention to detail. It should genuinely convey thine motive also leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

5. How Major Are Personal Statements for Veterinary Schools?

A personal display for veterinary schools is extremely important. It provides applicants a platform to shop their individuality, express their motivation, and demonstrate their suitability forward the veterinary profession.  How to Write a Vet School Personal Assertion

Personal statements offer insights into applicants' personal and professional qualities that may not remain clear free other application components. 

Final Thoughts

Their vet school personal statement supposed be thoughtful, genuine, and informative. You should ensure that your story is slim to read by using descriptive language and lined up the highlights of your work experience in order. 

Consider your unique objective. Remember, these programs are competitive. How your unique twisted on your essay will search you stand out from aforementioned pack and keep with the mind of the admissions committee. 

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How To Write a Vet School Personal Statement

Personal statements are one of the first big steps towards becoming a vet, but how do you write one? Find out in our detailed guide.

How to write a vet school personal statement

Getting into a great veterinary school can be tough. Vet course admissions are very competitive, so you need to do everything you can to prove that you are an exceptional candidate. This includes writing a great veterinary personal statement. We look at how to write a personal statement for vet school, key items to include, and why nailing your personal statement is important.

Why we have to write personal statements

Your personal statement is an important part of your application process, as veterinary school is highly competitive. This is the chance to add a personal touch to your application and make you stand out from the crowd. While your resume will list all of your accomplishments, educational background, and experience, your personal statement allows you to tie all of this together and let your passion, personality, and enthusiasm for veterinary medicine shine through. Your personal statement is also where you can mention anything that doesn’t fit into the other sections of your application, and it’s an ideal place to reinforce how you meet the admission requirements .

Here, you’ll introduce yourself and explain why you’ll be a great fit for the program, touch on what has inspired you to further your studies, and why you think you are good candidate to become a veterinarian. You might also want to include what you like about this particular program and how you think it will enrich your knowledge and understanding of veterinary medicine. 

This means that when you get an interview for admission, the admissions officer should already know a bit about you and allows you to jump straight into answering their questions.

Demonstrate your passion for animals 

Since you only have limited space on your personal statement, it’s important to use this space to convince the admissions team that your passion for animals would make you an excellent veterinarian.

In order to uniquely demonstrate your passion for animals, try to think outside of the box. Don’t just talk about family pets. Mention times you’ve been proactive, hands-on, and gained experience with animals. This might include helping with the birthing season on a local farm, volunteering in kennels, or helping strays find foster homes in animal shelters.

It’s also important to specify what type of animals you have interacted with. Did you grow up riding horses and love tending to large mammals? Or did your family raise small animals? Whatever your particular interest in the veterinary world, be sure to add it. Schools like to see students who have a plan of where to specialize and continue their education.

Of course, don’t forget that most vets have to work with people too, so it’s a good idea to include something that shows you can work as part of a team or with clients.

Highlight all relevant experience

Whatever you’ve done for animals outside your normal household, include it, especially if it’s something related to wellbeing and health. Even better, if you can remember a particular interaction that made you want to be a veterinarian, be sure to include it. 

Your resume will list your experience and qualifications, but your vet school application personal statement is where you can say why your experience is relevant to the program. When you’re planning your statement, you can make notes of what experience you have, and what transferable skills you have gained. Then you can find ways to tie this into veterinary medicine. For example, if you’re an empathetic person who has worked in customer service, you can relate this to dealing with clients at a standard vet practice. If you have experience running a social group, this ties into leadership skills and motivation to go above and beyond for something you’re interested in.

Remember, you’ll have gained invaluable experience from almost everything you do, whether that’s education, work, voluntary roles, or hobbies. You just need to think about how it is relevant to what you want to do next.

Set yourself apart from the crowd  

First, you should try to think about what makes you unique. Try to think about the things you’ve done that other people haven’t, or experiences you’ve had. Remember that you’ll be competing for a seat against people all over the country and potentially all over the world, so even the most basic things might be unusual compared to other applicants.

Just like in the previous section, think about how your background gives you a different perspective or relevant skills. Try to tie it into the topics you’ll be learning in vet school, and the challenges you would face in your daily life as a veterinarian.

While you might want a large portion of your statement to be positive, you can also bring up any difficulties you’ve had and how you’ve used problem-solving skills and resourcefulness to overcome them. It shows that you’re willing to do a lot to reach your dream, which suggests you’ll be a focused and dedicated student.

You should also be sure to be personable in your personal statement. Vet school committees will expect you to remain professional and precise in what you say with word limitations in mind. However, you should aim for a conversational, friendly tone. Your personal statement is about you, so it should give the admissions committee an insight into your personality. Try to find a happy medium where you don’t sound too stiff and formal, but also don’t use slang too much.

Preparation is key

There are a lot of different things you will want to cover in your personal statement for vet school, and it’s more than simply a ‘why I want to be a veterinarian’ essay. That’s why it’s vital to prepare and plan your statement before you write it.

Just like any other assignment, you should break the statement down into sections. Make sure you highlight the goal of each section – one section might be talking about your background, and one might be about your experience. Then plan out each section with some key points to include, such as the skills your experience has provided. Then you can write the actual contents without wavering too much – and you definitely don’t want to waste words.

Afterward, be sure to proofread it thoroughly. If you can, you should ask someone else to read it too. Ask them if it makes sense, as well as get them to note any errors they find.

If you’re ready to take the next step and start studying at a leading vet school, contact us to speak to one of our expert advisors. St. Matthew’s University School of Veterinary Medicine provides graduates with new knowledge, skills, and methods necessary to become caring, competent veterinarians.

Check out webinar events at St. Matthew’s School of Veterinary Medicine for more information about the application process, including your personal statement.

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• Veterinary Personal Statement Examples For University

Step into the University of veterinary medicine as you delve into two exceptional personal statements that showcase the unwavering passion, exceptional skills, and profound dedication of aspiring veterinarians. Use our Veterinary personal statement examples to write your application for the Vet course to make a successful university application. 

Veterinary Personal Statement

I grow up on the farm. Since a young age, my passion for horses has ignited a deep connection with these magnificent animals. Growing up, I immersed myself in the world of equine care, constantly learning and developing my knowledge of their well-being. It was through this journey that I discovered my fervour for trimming and caring for horse hooves in their natural state, favouring the preservation of their inherent grace over conventional shoeing methods. This hands-on experience not only allowed me to witness the profound impact of proper hoof care but also instilled in me an unwavering desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

While my love for horses, I have always been fascinated by the world of exotic pets. My commitment to understanding diverse animal care requirements led me to take on the responsibility of caring for Josh, a beautiful chameleon. Delving into the unique intricacies of reptiles and tropical animal care hypnotised me, as I discovered the delicate balance required to provide them with a prosperous atmosphere. This experience further solidified my determination to specialize in exotic animal Vet medicine and contribute to the well-being of these remarkable pieces.

For my best practical experience, I actively aspired to opportunities to expand my knowledge beyond horses and reptiles. Working at an animal shelter exposed me to the day-to-day care of various animals, primarily dogs and cats. However, I used every chance to assist in the care of other pieces, including Josh the chameleon. This experience not only let me develop my skills in treating different species but also taught me the importance of empathy and kindness in providing quality Veterinary care.

I wanted to further broaden my horizons, I pursued employment at a city zoo. This opportunity proved to be transformative, as it provided me with adequate exposure to an extensive range of exotic animals. Working alongside the zoo’s best veterinarians, I absorbed knowledge from experts while sharpening my clinical skills. It was during this time that I was fortunate enough to form a mentorship with Dr Martin Bellford, a seasoned veterinarian. His guidance and support have been very valuable, enabling my ambitions and providing me with opportunities to excel in veterinary medicine.

Academically, my love for biology has been my driver in my educational journey. Biology labs, in particular, have provided a platform for me to explore the intricacies of life and deepen my understanding of animal physiology. Though my empathy for animals sometimes makes dissection uncomfortable, I appreciate the opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of animal anatomy and its practical application in veterinary medicine.

Looking to the future, I have ambitious career goals. As an exotic animal specialist, I aspire to work with unique and wild species, employing my knowledge and skills to safeguard their well-being. Furthermore, I am passionate about wildlife preservation and hope to contribute to this cause through active involvement with organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund. By combining my veterinary expertise with a dedication to conservation, I aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of animals, both domestic and wild.

My journey in veterinary medicine has been shaped by a lifelong passion for horses and an unwavering dedication to animal care. The diverse experiences I have gained, from working with horses to caring for exotic pets and assisting at a city zoo, have solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. With a strong academic foundation in biology and a burning desire to make a difference, I am eager to embark on this transformative journey and contribute to the well-being of animals in need.

Veterinary Medicine Personal Statement Example

Ever since I can remember, my fascination with animals has been my driver in shaping my school achievements and personal goals. The intricate biology of animals, their diverse forms, and their profound impact on the world have fascinated me, igniting a passion that has led me to seek a career in veterinary medicine. With an interest in genetics and its application to animal health, I am eager to contribute my knowledge and skills, while improving the welfare of our dear “buddies”.

As I delved more in-depth into biology, my focus on genetics strengthened. Studying the complexity of evolution and selective breeding, I became aware of the challenges that certain species face due to genetic defects. Ventricular septal defects in bulldogs demonstrate the importance of genetic predispositions and the impact they have on health. It is my earnest wish to utilise this knowledge to diagnose, treat, and mitigate such conditions, ensuring good health for animals.

Throughout my academic journey, I have always displayed an affinity for the sciences, particularly biology. I have demonstrated a strong grasp of fundamental principles and an ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real scenarios. Moreover, my overall performance in the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) demonstrates a positive mindset and a commitment to hard work across all mentioned disciplines.

To complement my academic work, I have eagerly aspired to relevant work experiences in veterinary medicine. Assisting with surgeries and consultations, I have seen the dedication and skill required to provide humane care to animals in need. These experiences have extended beyond the borders of my home country, allowing me to observe veterinary practices in diverse environments. Additionally, my work with horse husbandry and breeding, as well as my involvement with racehorses and farming animals, has upgraded my knowledge to the next level.

Beyond my academic and professional goals, I actively engage in extracurricular activities that have honed my attributes and fostered a well-rounded character. As a dedicated sportsman and Silver Sports Ambassador, I have been privileged to promote the values of the Olympics and inspire others to embrace an active lifestyle. My participation in rugby for Sheppey RFC and my school team has instilled in me the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.

Driven by a real desire to make a positive result, I have enthusiastically taken part in charity work. Regularly participating in fundraising runs and embarking on an expedition to Tanzania, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of collective action. These experiences have taught me empathy and my commitment to managing animal welfare issues with my heart and dedication.

My dedication to my studies is further demonstrated by my participation in a Vetsim course, where I developed a particular interest in avian veterinary surgery. Immersed in a simulated veterinary environment, I honed my technical skills and deepened my understanding of avian health and treatment. This experience solidified my conviction to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, as it allowed me to witness the profound impact that veterinary care can have on the lives of animals and their owners.

My empathetic nature, excellent communication skills, and strong affinity for animal welfare issues have shaped me into a candidate ready to make a meaningful contribution to the field of veterinary medicine. Through the learning of genetics, a dedication to lifelong learning, and an unwavering dedication to the welfare of animals, I am confident in my ability to excel in the rigorous academic program of veterinary medicine. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my knowledge and skills to animal health, ultimately making a positive impact.

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• Veterinary School

VMCAS Essay Examples

VMCAS essay examples are a great place to start when you're preparing to apply to veterinary school. After researching vet school rankings and looking into the best vet schools in your chosen area, you’ve finally decided on the schools you would like to apply to. One of the items you’ll need to include in your VMCAS application is a personal essay. We’re here to show you how to highlight your personal story and provide you with some VMCAS essay examples to make the process easier.

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Article Contents 10 min read

Personal essay example 1.

I grew up in a family with no pets. An experimental goldfish or two, but there is no family dog I can look back on fondly. My parents were both immigrants who left their homes young and understandably focused on providing for their kids and ensuring we did well in school.

But like a lot of young kids, I developed a love and fascination for horses. My parents thought it was a phase, but when my requests for horseback riding lessons continued year after year, they finally relented and took me to a local farm for lessons. I remember my first connection with the pony. I felt like it could understand, hear, and accept me, without being able to say a word. That’s when I started to understand the relationship that people have with the animals in their lives, and I wanted nothing more than to experience it again.

Want to know how to answer the hardest MMI Questions? Watch this video:

Several years later, I jumped at the opportunity to help out at the riding camp during the summer break. I didn’t realize until then how different it is to participate in the care of the animals, instead of just passively riding them. Every chore was to make sure the horses were comfortable, healthy, and happy. I felt like they relied on me, and they, in turn, provided peace and enjoyment to the people around them.

Since then, I’ve volunteered at the Second Chances Animal Sanctuary for several years, developing and applying the knowledge I’ve gained from my biology and zoology classes. My proudest moments were when we were able to help a family’s beloved pony walk again after a leg fracture that might have otherwise resulted in euthanasia. Being able to give the family hope when they thought there was nothing we could do was amazing, and giving the animal a chance at a full life was incredibly fulfilling.

I developed a special interest in animal orthopedics while completing an internship at the Main Street Animal Hospital. What I want more than anything is to be a vet who works within the field of orthopedics for large animals, developing therapies and treatment programs to help regain mobility. These animals are often essential to rural businesses or farms and should get the care a partner deserves. The sense of responsibility I feel toward them and their quality of life continues to drive me to pursue the skills and knowledge I need to care for them as a practitioner of veterinary medicine.

My parents didn’t believe in going to conventional places when it came to vacations. They wanted to see places that were unusual and immerse themselves in everything the locals did while they were there.

This meant that my brother and I were regularly exposed to places that were very culturally different from ours, but also climates that were totally new to us. As I got older, what struck me wasn’t always the exotic animals and plants, but the relationship a lot of people had with wildlife, and how it was different from what I experienced at home. At home in the urban setting where I lived, “wildlife” was what got into your garbage if you didn’t secure the lid properly. It was what dug through your flower pots at night. But in a lot of countries I visited, wildlife was an inseparable part of everyday life, and vital to the local economies. The animals there were valued as pollinators, decomposers, and yes, food. It made me curious about how people could value and experience wildlife back in the city where I lived.

At the beginning of high school, a friend and I decided to volunteer at the city’s wildlife center. As untrained volunteers we would mostly be cleaning cages and measuring feed for the animals, but I had never been so excited. The vets and vet technicians were so dedicated and resourceful. They relied on local donations, and the center survived on a shoestring budget, but they made it work. To them, even the common sparrows deserved kindness and care. Witnessing that level of empathy from vets and vet techs is humbling and inspiring.

Since that experience, I’ve taken as many opportunities as possible to work with wildlife organizations as possible. I volunteered at a summer program that was specifically created to help and preserve local turtle species, treating and tracking injured animals to ensure their survival. I’ve also participated in local songbird data collection, aiding in gathering information about migration patterns and population decline.

What I want is to be one of those veterinarians who cares for animals that don’t have anyone to care for them, or are treated like nuisances. Dogs and cats are loved and cared for, but so many city-dwelling animals are displaced or trapped or impacted negatively by humans. Working at a wildlife organization has taught me to be creative and resourceful, making the most out of the materials and equipment we had. I want to show people that even the plainest city wildlife deserves respect and help when they need it.

The VMCAS essay is one of the application components required by the Veterinary Medical College Application Service when you use their process to apply to vet schools. This essay is intended to provide admissions committees with “a clear picture of who you are and, most importantly, why you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.” While they may have your credentials on paper through your vet school resume , they might not have a good idea of what your personality is like, or what your goals are. Even your veterinary school letters of recommendation only represent who you are through someone else’s eyes, not your own.

Different from your vet school letter of intent , which must make a clear connection between your background, training, areas of interest, and the objectives and mission of your chosen veterinary school program, the VMCAS essay is more personal. It’s your chance to show the admissions committee why you love veterinary medicine and why you think you will make a good veterinarian.

Requirements

The VMCAS essay or vet school personal statement can be a maximum of 3,000 characters (including spaces). This comes out to about one page of writing. It’s important to make sure your essay falls within the character count and contains all the listed requirements .

Note that the application site doesn’t have spell-check, and you can’t edit your work once you’ve submitted it. Making sure your punctuation and spelling is correct is the most basic way to show you’ve paid attention to the details in your essay. If you aren’t sure about a word or grammar choice, look it up so you know you’ve used it properly.

For help writing your essay, you could consider medical school personal statement editing services, which can easily be modified by an advisor to suit veterinary school requirements. Engaging an expert, such as those at BeMo Academic Consulting, is well worth it to improve your application documents and stand out from the crowd.

Is the VMCAS Essay Important?

The personal essay might not seem as formal or intensive as other parts of your application, but it’s still very important and can help or hurt your chances of being accepted into a program. A great essay showcases your personality traits, your sense of responsibility, as well as your motivations for going into veterinary medicine. A middling essay may be acceptable but fail to separate you from the pack, while a poor essay can show a want of attention to detail. One of the easiest ways to figure out what should be in yours is to look up VMCAS essay examples and see what you should aim for.

Want to learn more about vet school rankings? Check out this infographic:

What Should I Include in My Essay?

You may immediately think of a hundred things you want to tell the admissions committee, from your first pet hamster to your experience as an intern at the city zoo. However, keep in mind that you only have about 500 words, and you need to make them count. Here are some ideas of what you’ll want to include in your VMCAS essay.

• Career goals. Where do you ultimately want to be, and what is your dream job? Don’t just list a title – explain what appeals to you about it, or why you want this specific position over any others.
• What you want to contribute. You don’t need to make up a grand, world-altering contribution here, unless that is what you sincerely want to do. Your goal can be to simply bring joy and comfort to families by taking care of their pets. It can also be to make significant advancements to the field of veterinary science. Make sure you’re authentic.
• Characteristics that make you a good vet. Yes, you need good marks to get into vet school, but the admissions committee also wants to know that you have the right personality traits. For example, you may be a very motivated self-learner. This is a great attribute to have, but you need to highlight how being an excellent self-learner would help you in vet school and ultimately, as a vet.
• Always give examples. Remember that the committee doesn’t know you, so they will be wary of applicants who make claims without backing them up. It’s important to give examples so that the committee can see how you’ve used your skills and individual attributes in real-life situations: “show, don’t tell.” If you write that you’re an empathetic and caring person, write about a time when you demonstrated that empathy. This shows that you aren’t just listing what you think they want to hear.
• Set yourself apart. Any special experiences, personal revelations, or big life events that affected your desire to be in veterinary medicine are worth noting. You have a limited amount of space, so stick to the most important ones. These unique experiences are what will help the admissions committee remember you and set you apart from the crowd.

With only 500 or so words to make your case, what you don’t include can be just as vital as what you do include. The admissions committee likely doesn’t want an entire essay on your childhood pet, so be careful about getting stuck on one aspect. In fact, the VMCAS guide explains that while many applicants “have had meaningful experiences with animals or veterinarians as children … these should only be mentioned briefly.”

Here are some other things you’ll want to make sure you avoid when writing your VMCAS essay.

• Information they already have. At this point, the admissions committee already knows about your academic achievements. They may be familiar with the jobs you’ve had, based on your letter of intent or high school resume . They may have a list of any vet school extracurriculars in which you participated. In your essay, don’t repeat what they already know. Instead, tell them something they don’t have on paper, expand on one or two of those experiences, or explain how an event impacted your motivation to go into veterinary medicine.
• Vague, generalized information. Telling them that “you’ve always liked animals” is nice, but vague, and likely a trait that many applicants share. Make it more specific: What is it that draws you to animals? When, exactly, did you start taking a special interest in animals?
• Jargon, unless it’s necessary. The admissions committee is unfortunately not going to be impressed if you throw terms around or use 5-syllable words in every sentence. You aren’t a vet yet, and one of the more embarrassing things you can do is attempt to use a term and use it wrong. Stick with language that is used in everyday conversation.
• Make unnecessary explanations. The members of the admissions committee don’t need you to explain the process of getting into vet school or how medical procedures work. Explain something if it is very specific to you, like the type of club you were in at school, or an event that occurred in your year of study. Giving an example is a better way of showing the committee what you mean, instead of getting bogged down in explanations.
• Irrelevant things. If the event isn’t relevant to why you want to be a vet or what you are looking for in a school/program, you probably don’t need to write it here. Take note of the various parts of the application process that would allow you to go into more detail. For example, should you be invited to answer vet school interview questions , you will have such an opportunity. The “tell me about yourself” vet school interview question would be the perfect moment to discuss your personal background further. It’s a good idea to go back and examine each piece of information you’ve provided in your essay and make sure it ties into the main topic: why you want to have a career in veterinary medicine.

Language and Tone

Ideally, the tone in which you write your VMCAS essay is similar to the way you would talk with someone in person. Keep your word choice conversational. Writing in a way that is overly formal doesn’t give the admissions committee members a clear sense of your own voice, and doesn’t humanize you. You’re writing your story, so it helps to read the essay aloud and see if it sounds like an accurate representation of yourself. Having a friend or family member read it can also be beneficial.

Admission to vet school is challenging, as shown by veterinary school acceptance rates ; some schools are more difficult to get into than others. Applying is a long process with a lot of pieces to consider. Your VMCAS essay is perhaps one of the least restrictive parts, where you’re given the freedom to tell the admissions committee why you’re there and what you want to do. Being authentic and specific is your best approach to being accepted into the school of your choice.

It won’t make as much of an impact as your grades or your resume, but it can make you more memorable and more likeable to the committee members. An average essay likely won’t hurt you too much, but a bad one can.

The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges is a good place to start. There you’ll find all the pieces you’ll need to submit for the application as well as contacts if you need more help. You can also have a look at our list of the best vet schools, along with tips for getting in.

A letter of intent shows how serious you are about your application and emphasizes what sort of experience and education you have related to veterinary medicine. The personal essay is more about your personality, motivation, and goals.

You don’t need to list everything you’ve ever done that is related to the field. That is already outlined in other parts of the application. Highlight the personal impact certain experiences have had on you – be specific about how they made you feel, how they changed your perspective, and how they moved you in the direction of veterinary studies. 

Admissions committee members aren’t expecting fine literature when you submit your personal essay. They know that not all candidates are natural writers. What they’re interested in is your ability to express yourself in a short piece of writing. Don’t worry about using fancy terms – write in a way that sounds natural and authentic to you. 

The committee will want to know about your experiences if they’re specific to you and have impacted you in a tangible way. You don’t have to tell them about every interaction you’ve had with animals, just the ones that were special to you.

Use the language you would use in a normal conversation in your essay. Very few people speak in a formal tone, and it can end up sounding stilted and unnatural. Be expressive but stick to the requirements. 

There is no editing once your VMCAS essay has been submitted. However, if there is a serious mistake in the essay, you can contact the admissions committee and forward them a corrected copy as soon as possible. 

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Applying to Veterinary School in 2024: Veterinary Personal Statement Top Tips From Cambridge & RVC Graduates

Applying to vet school can seem intimidating. In this article, we hope to demystify the process for you, discussing top tips for writing your personal statement, exploring the subject prior to interviews and preparing you to follow your veterinary dreams!

Preparing a Veterinary Personal Statement

When writing your personal statement, it is important to ensure breadth and depth, discussing topics in detail and ensuring you can mention a range of different topics/ experience to show a wider knowledge of the subject area. Make sure you mention people as well as animals, and choose topics you would be comfortable discussing further at interview.

Why are you applying?

Before you begin preparing for your veterinary application, it is worth taking a few minutes to think about the reasons why you wish to study veterinary medicine. This will be crucial for personal statement writing and you may be asked about your motivations for applying at interview. Your reasons for application should be well-thought out and specific. When you have some work experience of volunteering done, you can incorporate these experiences in your answers.

Begin by planning how you will structure your response. You could split your answer into three sections: 

1. Why the university?

Extensively research the university, societies you might want to join etc. and know the style of veterinary school. N.B. Most veterinary schools will have a page dedicated to what they want from applicants - take your cue from them!

2. Why veterinary?

Think about what YOU will gain from the degree itself

Think about what the degree will allow you to do once you are done e.g. The different routes you could take: Veterinary surgeon, zoo industry, scientific research, higher education lecturer, conservation work, charity sector (RSPCA) etc.

Ideas: You could think about how veterinary scientists benefit our community, maintaining animal welfare standards, improving food security, informing policy changes, the lifelong learning experience…

What are your ambitions? What interests you about veterinary medicine?

Consider the top 6 qualities you think it will be most important to evidence in your personal statement – consider practical and non practical skills

3. Why are you a suitable candidate?

When answering "Why me?" style questions at interview, or brainstorming when writing your personal statement, you must be able to demonstrate your quality and relate back to veterinary.

What makes YOU suitable for this subject? What relevant skills do you have? What relevant experiences or achievements can evidence these skills?

Which qualities would your chosen university most admire? e.g. practical skills, communication skills, problem solving, empathy and sensitivity

Work experience is great to mention as the stimulus that led you to apply for veterinary medicine, rather than just "helping animals", which is the formulaic answer a surprising number of students give! Work experience placements also make perfect examples for questions on your skills/ attributes and veterinary as a career.

Example skills

How to ensure breadth and depth in your Vet personal statement

Those who are going to review your personal statement for university admissions, or interview you, live the subject. They have decided to dedicate their lives to studying this discipline. Therefore, it is important to show that you are closely involved with the subject, even though it is not a subject studied at school. How to do this?

Background Reading/ Research for Vet Science

Evidence of off-curriculum exploration and outside reading is crucial to success in entry to the top veterinary schools . Research some relevant topics in veterinary medicine such as one health, bovine tB, animal welfare, pet obesity and nutrition (80% of horses are obese!), euthanasia and equine notifiable diseases.

Also think about current "“hot topics” in veterinary e.g. equine herpes virus is a hot topic in the UK after a recent outbreak. Students may also like to mention Covid-19 on their personal statement and the questions/ issues the pandemic has thrown up e.g.

Zoonotic diseases (diseases spread between animals and people): The origins of the pandemic are unclear

Coronavirus in pets e.g. dogs: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html - Concerns over animals/ pets with reported SARS-CoV-2 infection resulted in vets being pooled into the research

The effectiveness of tele-consultations/ whether this accelerated the possible digitalisation of some elements of veterinary practice

The importance of non-emergency treatments: Vets encourage dog owners to come for vaccinations each year, but these were classes as non-emergency during the pandemic. Does this mean vaccinations are not essential for dogs?

Are vets key workers? (They were not classes ad key workers originally)

Puppy farming/ ethics of imported rescues

Pet travel/ passports

You could keep a reading chart with a page dedicated to each veterinary related topic. This will be useful for personal statement writing and prospective interviews too. To practise for interview, why not try presenting the topic out loud and pre-empting questions?

New Scientist: Great for articles on current affairs in veterinary science: https://www.newscientist.com/search/?q=veterinary

BBC Radio 4 In Our Time : You’ll find a number of veterinary-related episodes e.g. “The Evolution of Horses” or “Echolocation”

Linking research/ work experience to skills

Mention a range of different topics to show a wider knowledge of the subject area

Pick a topic or experience to discuss in more detail in your personal statement, but use this to show off a quality of yours

Example: Communication skills are central to being a successful vet – you could mention how you used communication skills during work experience or watched a vet demonstrate communication skills in a challenging scenario such as an angry or upset client

Work experience:

Consider which of these placements you have enjoyed the most, and why

Consider a time during your work experience placements when you have learnt something about the practical aspect of working in veterinary science, and also a non-practical aspect

You could also refer to examples of cases seen during work experience

Extracurricular

These may or may not be relevant to veterinary science. If unrelated e.g. a sport, public speaking, music, ensure you link back to why undertaking the extracurricular activity stands you in good stead for a veterinary degree i.e. what skill has it honed? Mention of non-veterinary related extracurriculars should be c.4 lines at the end of the statement.

Example Activities:

Write, write, write! For other subjects, essay competitions are a great way of delving into a topic area in depth and trying your hand at high level academic writing. Whilst veterinary competitions are slightly harder to come by, there are some opportunities for students to get involved in/ mention on their personal statement. Even if the deadline is passed, why not practise brainstorming an answer to, essay planning, or writing a full essay in response to the questions? Questions such as these could also be asked at interview. Even if you don’t mention the competition, you could mention an interest in the field on your personal statement or even turn it into an independent research project

The Society for Veterinary Medical Ethics Competition : Example Question - “ Even when animal euthanasia is ethically indicated, many veterinarians and vet staff become stressed because they feel like executioners. What might change their paradigm?”

Lucy Cavendish College Veterinary Competition : Example Question - ”’Brachycephalic dogs spend their entire lives struggling to breathe. Their popularity is regrettable and their breeding should be strictly regulated.’ Discuss.”

Newnham College, Cambridge Biological Sciences Competition : Example Question - “Replace, reduce, refine: Why do we still need to experiment on animals?”

Research Projects

Zooniverse allows you to take part in science research projects from home. For example, the project “Whooping Cranes” involves virtually looking for large white birds (Whooping Cranes) in Northern Canada to monitor the population of the endangered species, or the “Monkey Health Explorer” project allows you to learn more about monkey health by identifying white blood cell types

We also offer specialised research projects through our co-curricular division, Minds Underground™ . The projects are great to mention on personal statements, and make impressive talking points at interview, particularly for top UK universities such as Cambridge, who favour applicants with an interest in scientific research

These are typically taken over a 4-week duration, involving weekly hour-long project tutorials and a final review session. The aim is to combine teaching of high-level subject-specific content with exposure to real-world applications of these concepts, giving you the opportunity to undertake a project that is both useful for a university application and future career

We have a selection of projects available on the website, but further veterinary projects can also be customised around your interests with a mentor who has a specialism in the field

Veterinary Courses/ Masterclasses

We run an online Veterinary Summer School (June - August), with two hosts from the Royal Veterinary College

If you have missed the summer course, we also host all of the masterclasses as 1-1 sessions, price on application. Example masterclasses: https://www.mindsunderground.com/stem/veterinary

Online Veterinary Summer School

12 interactive masterclasses on topics such as “Immune Response and Vaccines”, “Basic Life Support and First Aid in the Emergency Patient” and “Veterinary Case Studies: The Vomiting Dog, The Cat Losing Weight, and the Horse with Colic”

Designed to support content building for personal statements, and prepare for veterinary interviews

Hopefully this article has given you more of an idea as to how you should go about content building, writing and structuring a standout vet personal statement. Be concise (you only have 4000 characters!), be honest and speak in detail about specific interests within the veterinary course, emphasising a few in-depth discussions of experience and topics of interest to convey your passion for the subject.

Looking for a Personal Statement Tutor or Support For Your Wider Veterinary School Application?

Veterinary science personal statement.

U2’s Oxbridge-educated mentors have a close insight into what admissions tutors like to see in a veterinary personal statement, and can help students to convey their skills, motivations, and long term goals, in order to stand out from other applicants. The statement should be the candidates own work, but our mentors will provide direction and guide you through the process of content building and writing. We offer offline drafting as well as tuition sessions.

Veterinary Mentoring (Cambridge, RVC and More)

U2 offers both ad hoc tuition and wider Medical School / Oxbridge Mentoring programmes ( book a free consultation to discuss options ). We have a great team of Cambridge-educated and RVC Veterinary mentors, with experience supporting students in application to the UK’s top veterinary schools.

The Process:

1) We suggest a Veterinary mentor and send their full CV for review. Our mentors are deeply familiar with the admissions process and are well-placed to guide you through personal statement curation, test preparation (if applicable) and the interview process. We may suggest a range of application tutors to choose from with slightly differing rates depending on qualifications and level of experience.

2) We typically suggest beginning with a 1.5 hour informal assessment/ taster session , where the mentor will informally assess the student’s current performance level for application. Following this, we issue a report with feedback, and structure a plan to best prepare.

3) U2’s approach for regular veterinary application sessions: The main focus of tutorial sessions will be to explore material that can be discussed in the personal statement and at interview. Mentors ensure each student refines their interests within veterinary, and is exposed to a range of key themes and topics. Together, we build a case for the student, solidifying the stance and direction they will take during interview.

Frequency of sessions can be decided between student and mentor. Students can take either ad hoc sessions, or we structure a full programme for preparation, which may include further co-curricular opportunities such as our research projects , Veterinary summer school and mock interview days.

Sessions from £70/h.

Applying for Linguistics at University in 2023: Reading, Personal Statement and Interview Tips From an Oxford Linguistics Graduate

How to approach the ucat test in 2024: tips for the best ucat preparation.

Personal Statements

Your personal statement is a one-page essay that gives veterinary admissions committees a clear picture of who you are and, most importantly, why you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine

UGA Supplemental Application questions for 2024-2025 application cycle:

• Veterinarians contribute to society in many different ways. Describe several roles they play in society and how you hope to contribute, including the qualities or traits you would bring to the profession. (3500 character limit)
• Describe a significant experience or challenge in your life that was unrelated to veterinary medicine, what you learned from that experience, and how you have grown from it. (3500 character limit)
• Personal Statement

What should be included?

Although there is no set of rules mandating what a strong personal statement should include, here are a few tips to help you successfully craft an effective personal statement:

• Explain a defining moment that helped steer you toward a career in veterinary medicine. Consider using that moment as the focal point of your essay.
• Be original and thoughtful: Discuss how you would contribute to the profession and patient care, all of which will help you stand out from other applicants.
• As you are telling us why you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine , explain why you are good candidate for veterinary school. Ask yourself—in a pile of 100 applications, would I enjoy reading my statement? Be sure to convey your passion for veterinary medicine in your statement.
• Many of you have had meaningful experiences with animals or veterinarians as children and these are important but should only be mentioned briefly.
• Your application materials already contain a summary of your accomplishments, so avoid repeating information from your transcripts or reference letters.
• Give yourself time to organize your thoughts, write well and edit as necessary.
• Ask yourself if this essay is a good representation of your character, ideals and aspirations.
• Don’t forget to proofread!

What should NOT be included?

• Avoid cliches: How many times do you think admissions committees have read the phrase, “I love animals”?
• Avoid being vague: "[Insert experience] was challenging and rewarding." What does that mean? Be specific about what was impactful and how it affected you.
• Avoid brash decision-making:   Your decision to become a veterinarian should be the result of a series of thoughtful, conscious, and reflective decisions. NOT an instantaneous realization. Similarly, you have not “always known” that you want to be a vet. No one is "born to be a vet." Nothing is innate, you have to work for it.
• Avoid excuses:   In general, there are better uses for your essays than explaining away and justifying poor grades, incidents of misconduct, etc.  However, if you choose to address these subjects, be sure to focus on what you have learned from those incidents and how your experiences have made you a stronger person.  Never, ever blame anyone else for your mistakes.
• Avoid restating resume:   Choose ONE or TWO significant and distinguishing experiences to elaborate upon.
• Avoid grandiosity:   For example, claiming that you “know what it is like to be a vet from [shadowing/clinical volunteer experience].”  No, you do not.  That is precisely why you are hoping to go to vet school.
• Avoid inflammatory or controversial topics:   You do not know the values, beliefs, and background of the person who is reading your essay.  For these reasons, it is advisable to avoid making any strong statements regarding politics, religion, and other polarizing topics.  Be extremely cautious to avoid expressing any views that could be construed as derogatory to any group.  Additionally, your beliefs are not the only “correct” beliefs.
• Do not lie: Honesty and ethical behavior are the hallmarks of being a veterinarian. Do not include details that you are not prepared to talk about or are simply untrue.

When should I start writing?

You need to begin working on your essays early in the fall semester prior to the application opening in January.  Remember that the people who are helping you with your essays will need time to review them and you will need time to work through multiple drafts. You should have several different people objectively read your personal essays and provide constructive feedback. There are also resources on campus that can assist you, such as the Career Center and UGA Writing Center .  Consider the feedback you get carefully, but be sure that the essays are still written in your voice. In addition, some of your letter writers will want to see a copy of your essays before they write your letter, so you should strive to have competent drafts on hand by October or November. Your letter-writers are often a great option to help review your essays.

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Veterinary Science Personal Statement Examples

What is a veterinary medicine personal statement?

Your veterinary medicine personal statement is an opportunity to sell yourself to admissions tutors, and tell them why you would make a great candidate on their course.

Your statement should include how you meet all the entry requirements for a veterinary science degree and demands of the course. For example, your love of animals, patience, empathy, and your academic and practical skills.

How do I write a veterinary medicine personal statement?

Most veterinary medicine candidates open their personal statement with why they want to become a vet. Motivations for wanting to study any course at university are always important.

We recommend you write a series a notes about your skills, experience, hobbies, extracurricular activities, career plans and anything else that is relevant to your application.

When you have put an initial draft together, proofread it and leave yourself plenty of time to amend your statement.

Ask family, friends and tutors to read your veterinary medicine personal statement, and invite them to make suggestions, comments and any other feedback to help you improve it.

What should I include in my veterinary medicine personal statement?

• Your passion for animals should be obvious from the outset. Think about what made you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine in the first place - was it a childhood experience or something you read or encountered? Were you inspired by a family member or friend who is already a qualified vet?
• Talk about any work experience (paid or unpaid) or voluntary roles that have helped you gain experience in the veterinary science field. This will help demonstrate your skills, commitment and ambition to the university admissions tutors.
• If you're applying to Oxbridge, your personal statement will need to be exemplary. Veterinary medicine is a highly competitive course, so you have to show that you are a talented, dedicated and enthusiastic student that meets all the academic and vocational requirements.

For more help and advice on what to write in your veterinary medicine personal statement, please see:

• Personal Statement Editing Services
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• The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
• Personal Statement FAQs
• Personal Statement Timeline
• 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
• What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

What can I do with a veterinary medicine degree?

There are many career options available to those wanting to study veterinary medicine, including:

• Animal nutritionist
• Veterinary surgeon
• Animal physiotherapist

However, there are other job roles where your veterinary science degree could be useful, such as:

• Animal technician
• Veterinary nurse
• Environmental consultant
• Nature conservation officer.

For more information about careers with a veterianary science degree, please see Prospects and The Times .

What are the best UK universities for veterinary medicine?

Currently the best UK universities for veterinary medicine are:

For more information about UK university rankings for veterinary science, please see The Complete University Guide and The Guardian .

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Example Veterinary Personal Statement (UC Davis, CSU, Edinburgh)

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who was accepted to top veterinary medicine graduate programs. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at Colorado State, the University of Colorado at Davis, and Edinburgh, UK. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in Veterinary should look like.

Sample Personal Statement Veterinary Sciences

In a developing country like Brazil, the problem of poverty is not just an abstract concept. It is a real problem seen from one’s car window. In Brazil, an estimated 36 percent of people live below the poverty line, and almost half are illiterate. In addition, poorer households typically spend over 60 percent of their income on food, yet every 6 in 10 people face food insecurity.

Currently, the capacity of poultry is 650 million units, whereas we are only producing 622 million units. Poultry contributes 46% of the total agriculture production. These statistics show that poultry can be crucial in mitigating food security in the country. Currently, our poultry capacity is underutilized. Amidst such rampant food insecurity, I aim to attain a doctoral degree in poultry nutrition. My goal is to rear antibiotic-free chicken, which has better productivity and is also full of nutrients. I am confident that antibiotic-free chicken can fill the current gaps in our production. My passion drives my motivation to curtail the current food insecurity by using my expertise in Poultry and Animal Sciences.

I did my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), a rigorous six-year undergraduate degree, from Sao Paulo State University. During these six years, I diagnosed, treated, and managed small and large farm animals, including poultry, and worked on projects that enhanced the livestock sector’s productivity by more than 14%. During this tenure, I was always excited about the research opportunities at my helm and worked hard to attain excellence. It was the result of my hard work that I received a silver medal and graduated magna cum laude GPA. Since graduating with such a high honor, I ensured my learning and research did not stagnate. I continued to pursue my passion for two more years through an advanced diploma in Animal Nutrition.

During these eight academic years, I continuously shared my knowledge with others via various teaching assistantships that included teaching a course in the basics of Animal Nutrition to a class of over 400 students. During my research, I came across many interesting questions related to the digestibility of animal feed and the effect of animal nutrition on animal health. To answer these questions, I searched for careers where I could satiate my desire to scientifically study Poultry and Animal Nutrition.

After my diploma, I started working as a business development manager at Alltech – one of the top multinational firms in Animal Nutrition. At Alltech, I was involved in Technical Sales and Marketing of Feed Additives. Although the work was exciting and included meeting new clients and marketing our products, my thirst for research wasn’t quenched. Thankfully, I found Alto Feeds Ltd, which ideally aligned with my career goals and ambitions.

I have been working at Alto Feeds Ltd for six years. During these six years, I have conducted randomized control trials to find answers to how animal feed can be improved for better productivity. For example, I was only recently delighted to see that essential oils, which are purely organic, can increase poultry productivity by 1.5 times as compared to inorganic nutrients in the feed. However, while conducting trials on nutrient digestibility, I realized that the animals failed to digest the nutrients in the feed I gave them.

While performing these trials, I realized two things. One, I need to polish my theoretical skills in conducting tests. Two, my research methodologies need improvement, and I need access to the right resources to perform specific trials. To fill these gaps and conduct fair trials, I strongly feel the need for a doctoral program in veterinary medicine. Through my strong educational background and research-based professional experience, I can take maximum benefit and add value to a Ph.D. from a top university in the US. This will help me play a small role in fighting food insecurity-based poverty in Brazil and will also go a long way in fulfilling my career and personal.

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How to write a personal statement for veterinary science

Focus on your experience and motivation – and show you understand the challenges of the job

I f you're applying to study veterinary science, a personal statement will be just one part of your application. Chances are you will also have to fill out a work experience questionnaire, do a test and possibly go to an interview as well.

"The work experience questionnaire is there to check that the student meets our minimum work experience requirements," says Vikki Cannon, head of admissions and recruitment at the Royal Veterinary College.

Some courses don't even look at the personal statement. Dr Kieron Salmon, director of admissions at the University of Liverpool, says: "In our experience, very few personal statements are 'personal'. They read very similarly and have hints of having being written under the guidance of a teacher or parent. So we focus more on face-to-face interviews."

But for the courses that do ask for one, the personal statement can play a really important role.

"If you get it wrong, then it can be the difference between you getting an interview and not getting an interview," says Cannon.

So here are some tips to help you when it comes to writing yours.

What to include

Why do you want to be a vet?

"What we're looking for from a personal statement is to get a feel for why they want to be a vet and an understanding of what they've done about it," says Cannon.

It's also worth thinking about your long-term career aims and what kind of vet you want to be.

Sam Hillage, assistant faculty registrar at the University of Surrey, says: "Showing your motivation and talking about some of your career aspirations would be good. Also acknowledging the diversity of roles in the field."

Work experience

"Sometimes people forget to actually mention the four weeks of work experience they've done," says Hillage. "As that's a mandatory requirement, it's important they get that in."

It might be that a particular moment from your work experience has stuck with you, and if you link that to why you want to be a vet and what you've learned, it can impress tutors.

Claire Phillips, director of admissions at Edinburgh University's Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies says: "Sometimes it can be something quite minor that they have seen on work experience that has made an impression and shown them what it is all about."

Relevant hobbies

Use your statement to show your wider interests as well as your interest in veterinary medicine. Phillips says: "We're looking for a holistic, rounded student. It's not just about academic ability, we want to see people who have other things outside work and academics."

Try to link your hobbies back to your interest in veterinary medicine, but don't worry if not everything is relevant.

"It could be sport, music, voluntary work – it doesn't have to be animal-related," says Phillips.

"Being academically very good is not everything. They need an outlet to cope with the veterinary profession when they qualify. It's a tough job, especially if they go into a practice, so the fact they have something outside of academia is important."

Don't forget to mention people

A vet should understand that a big part of their job is dealing with people, say tutors.

"Some people just explain conditions or talk about animals, but it is important to talk about the sensitivity of the profession," says Phillips.

"You need to be aware that it's not just theory but about the overall sensitivity to people."

You could get this across by talking about some of the human interactions you encountered on your work experience, perhaps how you observed a vet dealing with a client.

Things to avoid

Spelling mistakes

You might not be applying to study English, but good spelling is still important.

Phillips says: "It's a professional degree and communication skills are very important."

And if you're going to refer to particular medical terms, it's really important that you spell them correctly.

"The number of people who write that they've witnessed caesareans in their personal statement but can't spell caesarean is amazing," says Cannon.

"One bad spelling isn't going to lose you a place, but you are marked on the quality of your writing, so if it was littered with spelling mistakes then it might be a problem."

"I've wanted to be a vet since I was..."

"We're not interested in the fact that you've wanted to be a vet for the last 16 years," says Cannon.

"You could have been interested in being a vet for the last 16 months, it's what you do about it that is the interesting thing."

That's not to say you should avoid the phrase altogether. Just make sure you link it back to why you would be good on the course.

Cannon says: "Lots of them will start their personal statement with: 'I've known I wanted to be a vet since I was 3, 4, 5, 6'. But then a lot of them do go on and say why. That's what we're looking for."

Too much technical detail

You might want to include some reference to a strand of veterinary medicine or a type of technology that interests you, but don't go overboard.

Sam Hillage, assistant faculty registrar at the University of Surrey, says: "I'd avoid getting bogged down in a lot of technical detail.

"While it's good to show you have some technical knowledge, it's not necessarily what we look for in a personal statement."

Mentioning the most up-to-date technology won't always win brownie points. "It's the more grounded things that make an impression," says Phillips.

Don't forget to mention animals

It might sound really obvious that a personal statement for veterinary science should include animals. But not everyone remembers. "Sometimes we get people who focus very much on the science side of things, without ever really mentioning animals," Cannon says.

Equally, make sure not to go too far in the other direction.

Cannon says: "Saying 'I want to be a vet because I like cats' doesn't really tell us anything."

If you're looking for more help in getting to vet school, why not apply for a place on a summer school? This year, the Royal Veterinary College is offering 50 places on a summer course with the Sutton Trust that will teach you what it's like to be a vet and give you tips on applying to study veterinary medicine at uni.

The scheme, sponsored by Barclays, is free to students from low and middle income backgrounds. If you're interested in applying for a place, take a look at the Sutton Trust's website .

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Life In Vet School & Tips On Getting In

So you want to become a veterinarian. Now what? Some people say that veterinary school is the hardest type of professional school to get accepted to. I disagree. Getting accepted in to veterinary school is not that hard, but it does take strategy! This blog will: 1) Provide information to aspiring veterinary students that will help them become the most competitive candidate they can be. 2) Provide a glimpse into what veterinary school is like at UC Davis. Enjoy! -Sharon

Veterinary School – Personal Statement Example

Posted on June 23, 2010 April 27, 2015 Author [email protected] 6 Comments

I know it helps to read a successful veterinary school applicant’s personal statement, so I am posting mine on this site.

*** Sharon now offers personal statement editing! *** See Career Coaching for details: http://www.lifeinvetschool.com/coaching/

Please do not attempt to copy or use this statement in any way, shape, or form — plagiarism is a serious issue and it is one way to make sure you never get into veterinary school.

Sharon Ostermann’s Personal Statement from VMCAS Application in 2008

Brakes screeched, tires squealed, and the car abruptly came to a halt. My heart was pounding. My father opened his door and, without hesitation, darted across the highway, dodging cars to rescue a defenseless turtle from the next car’s tire. Throughout my childhood in New York, rescuing turtles was a common practice for me and my father. Looking back, my father’s heroic sprints into oncoming traffic were not his most intelligent moves, but through them he communicated a very strong message – the value of an animal’s life. That message continues to motivate me today.

I have consistently devoted my life to giving animals another chance at theirs-be it rescuing turtles from roads, frogs from pools, or injured birds from dogs. Often I have been able to release the animals into their natural habitat; other times my efforts are too little, too late; and, occasionally, I end up raising an abandoned baby rabbit. My home has also been a refuge for rats, hamsters, birds, fish, turtles, and chinchillas, but never a dog and, until recently, never a cat. It almost goes without saying that my desire to care for animals led me to want to become a veterinarian, but the untraditional and circuitous path I have taken toward that goal is worthy of note.

A year ago a pre-vet student asked me a very frank question: “What’s stopping you?” At the time I was in graduate school, studying psychology, while concurrently running my own photography business. I did not have the time or money-much less courage-to change course. Yet, finding a deeper answer to her question became a driving force in my life. In time, I realized that animals have been the most important and most consistent facet of my life. So, what was keeping me from pursuing my dream? In the end, it was fear.

Fear of change kept me on an unfulfilling path where as courage, along with family support, freed me to pursue my dream. Realizing that a career in veterinary medicine best fit my values and lifestyle felt both liberating and daunting. While ready to change fields I faced intense coursework and the task of accumulating experience. Even so, without hesitation, I dove right in. With the support of Dr. ____ at the _____ Humane Society (_HS), I transitioned from helping hand at the _HS clinic to intern, a role requiring responsibility and participation in all situations, emergencies included. On my first day I helped treat the degloved leg of a dog that was hit by a car. And, by accepting all animals, _HS gives me experience in small animal, exotic, avian, and wildlife medicine. I love the challenges I face and my ability to learn quickly helps me to act competently in this setting. However, there are other aspects of veterinary work.

Since I knew my experience at _HS only gave me insight into one type of veterinary practice, I began volunteering at the ___ Zoo. There, I am involved in the health care and training of wild animals. Unlike _HS, where wildlife is given short-term care, rehabilitated and released, the zoo does not generally intend to release animals and, thus, invests in long-term care by way of regular health exams and medication. Facets of each of these environments attract me. I value the rehabilitative aspect of _HS, yet desire the rapport between animals and their caretakers that is achieved with long term care.

I also value community service on a global scale. Living in Ecuador and traveling abroad made me aware of the need for veterinary care in developing countries. To help fill this need, I will join a team to provide free veterinary care in Central America, where my Spanish language skills will be of use. I am excited for the opportunity to perform surgery and vaccinate under veterinary supervision and I am sure it will be the first of many trips of this nature for me. I can think of nothing more rewarding than putting my skills to work in the places that need my help most.

Ultimately, my journey makes me unique. Dabbling in other fields and work settings let me develop as an individual, reflect upon my decisions and finally choose veterinary medicine as a career. Through my indirect path, I gained a better understanding of myself, confidence in my chosen profession, and skills that may prove as valuable to a veterinarian as they are to a psychologist. In particular, the interpersonal skills that I have honed in the field of psychology will allow me to counsel and communicate with the owners of my future patients, an invaluable asset.

After many years, I am on track toward becoming a veterinarian. Experience has taught me that some things change and others do not, while that which remains the same defines us, drives us, and makes us who we are. Though I no longer live in New York, my father still rescues turtles; and my love and commitment to animals, which he inspired, remains intact. Whenever I see a turtle I smile as I am reminded of how I got to where I am today.

*** Sharon now offers personal statement editing! ***

See  career coaching  for details: http://www.lifeinvetschool.com/coaching/, share this:, 6 thoughts on “veterinary school – personal statement example”.

Thank you 🙂 Always helps reading some things x

This helped me a lot! Thank you for posting 🙂

That’s a sweet story.

Thank you so much for sharing your personal statement with the rest of is. It always helps to read some samples before assembling our own!

I really appreciate you posting this! This personal statement is stressing me out and it is helpful to see what other people have written.

Nice post, I love the website.

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Personal statement example veterinary medicine personal statement.

Submitted by Gina

Turn your passion for animals into a career, at ARU Writtle.

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Veterinary Medicine Personal Statement

As a Goldfinch collided with my living room window. Everyone jumped but no one moved, only me. I gently placed the bird in a well ventilated, dark box to reduce stress. After a while the bird was ready to continue flying. The value of an animal's life was one of the most inspirational lessons I ever learnt as a child. All I have ever wanted to do since then is to ensure animals have the best chance at life. It was when I rescued a small frog from a chlorinated pool when I was on holiday, that my parents were convinced I would one day be a vet. What motivates me the most to be a Veterinarian, is that unlike humans, animals are unable to express a feeling of pain or distress. My interest in Veterinary Medicine continued to grow throughout my A-Level Biology course, as the more I learn about how certain diseases can affect the body, the more eager I am to discover the cure. I enjoy being able to associate ideas from the classroom to real situations. My first placement was at an Equine Clinic, as I was eager to understand Equine Medicine due to my long-term involvement with horses. I had the opportunity to be involved in different diagnosis and treatments including a gastroscopy of a horse that was admitted with Colic, during the procedure we discovered grade 3 Glandular mucosa on the stomach lining. By following up on patient cases, I developed an understanding of the capabilities and limits of Veterinary Medicine.

My placement at a small animal practice allowed me to develop my animal handling skills. This placement gave me an understanding that despite the efforts Veterinarians go to, sometimes euthanasia is the best option. I was given the opportunity to develop my communication skills by having challenging conversations discussing the options the owners had during consultations. This allowed me to instil a feeling of assurance, that we were there to support the decisions they made. During this period, I became more aware of the affinity between an owner and their animal. I demonstrated my ability to work on my own initiative and cope under pressure when complications emerged. This work experience placement was a very beneficial one, as I was able to spend time in the large animal department where I witnessed procedures such as removing tumours and administering antibiotics to treat mastitis.

In addition to Veterinary work experience, I became involved with my local RDA site, The Pegasus Centre, it provides a restorative riding program for the disabled. As a volunteer, I assisted in regular lessons that gave pupils the chance to work with horses. This gave me the opportunity to communicate with a range of different people, allowing me to be more confident when empathising with owners. Many of the horses used at The Pegasus Centre are rescues, some of which were too old for their previous owners to continue eventing. The Veterinarian that was treating the horses at the centre, taught me an invaluable lesson of the importance of veterinary medicine as, without it, this programme would not be available. A Volunteering Project to Sri Lanka helped me develop my time management skills as I had to contribute to fundraising the £17,000 cost whilst simultaneously doing my A-Levels. During my time there I worked at an 'Elephant Orphanage' and a 'Turtle Hatchery' as well as working with underprivileged people who live in the area. The main skill I developed whilst in Sri Lanka is maturity. I am a lot more empathetic which I believe is an appropriate skill to have.

I have completed two online courses 'Animal Behaviour and Welfare' and 'Do you have what it takes to be a Veterinarian?' Both of which have provided me with a greater understanding of some of the main welfare issues animals have to cope with. In addition to confirming that veterinary medicine is right for me, these courses have allowed me to supplement my studies in A Level Biology in order to understand key aspects of an animal's life, for example, Immunity.

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Successful Personal Statement For Veterinary Medicine At Cambridge

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Veterinary Medicine applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Cambridge University. The Veterinary Medicine Course at Cambridge offers a world-class opportunity to study the scientific basis of veterinary medicine and clinical veterinary science.

Read on to see how this candidate managed to secure an offer from a world-class department.  

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

LONDON VET SCHOOL

INTERVIEW + REJECTED

Enrolling on our Cambridge Veterinary Science comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

With our Cambridge Veterinary Medicine  Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

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Veterinary Medicine Personal Statement

Witnessing the birth of a calf was a wonderful experience and has helped to confirm my long-term ambition to be a vet. This desire has been a motivating force in all my decisions at school. Veterinary medicine is a challenging and worthwhile career that encapsulates my profound interest in animal welfare, scientific enquiry and problem solving.  It will satisfy my passion to work with people and animals as well as my love of science. It requires academic rigour, is scientifically-based and provides opportunities for further research either in laboratory or clinical settings. It involves considerable practical skills and the potential for great job satisfaction with the possibility of running my own practice.

My work experience has been thoroughly enjoyable and included working with a country vet, a farrier, at a private stables, a commercial reptile centre, a dairy farm and a small animal clinic. With the country vet I observed two successful treatments on cows to correct displacement of the abomasum by external manipulation and surgery. I helped with TB testing, learning the process, its importance and the wider context. Working with the farrier opened my mind to other people who interact with the veterinary profession. Whilst involved in cleaning and feeding at the private stables I developed a great respect for horses including an awareness of the danger they can pose for humans and other animals. At the reptile centre I handled a bearded dragon, monitor lizard and snakes whilst assisting in an educational talk and at Beaver World learnt to care for guinea pigs, rabbits, beavers, pheasants and fish. During my nine-day stay on a dairy farm I took part in the daily routine of milking, and as well as observing the birth of a calf, I saw the deterioration of a cow and the eventual decision to put her down. It was apparent that working in a small animal clinic involves many routine operations like the castration and spaying of cats and dogs. I learnt that diagnosis involves history-taking, examination and investigations such as blood tests and diagnostic imaging. To gain more experience I plan to work at a city farm, participate in the delivery of lambs and carry out placements at London Zoo and the London Aquarium.

I attended VetMedlink at Nottingham University, thirty six lectures on all aspects of veterinary care. As part of this course I voluntarily undertook my own research into potential new uses of stem cells and submitted a paper which was marked and for which I received a distinction. This is due to be published on-line sometime this year. My focus was how stem cells inserted into the brain could be used in the future to improve intelligence and treat neural problems such as Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, I will be attending a course in November to enable me to administer aid to stranded or injured marine mammals.

As well as good examination grades, my other school achievements include prize certificates in mathematics and biology; I was especially pleased to win Gold Certificates in the UK Maths Challenge. This year I was commended for the quality of my answers in the Chemistry Challenge set by my school which required logical reasoning skills. I have a special aptitude for mathematics and attended six maths lectures at Greenwich University on themes which included matrices and types of mathematical proof.

I aim to involve myself whole-heartedly in university life, using my musical skills by playing the keyboard and perhaps playing in or starting a sports team.

I truly believe I have the ability to work effectively with people and animals. I am excited about the veterinary course since it offers the opportunity to undertake research projects, understand the scientific basis of medicine, gain in-depth knowledge of veterinary practice and develop key practical skills. I am determined to become a vet and eager to begin the formal course of training in what I know will prove to be a fascinating field of study.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

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Good Points Of The Personal Statement

A well written and well-structured statement that provides a good insight into the student’s character and development, both academically as well as personally. The student demonstrates a good scientific foundation, achieving various degrees of academic excellence and also demonstrates a wide range of different work-experience attachments giving insight into different specialities of veterinary medicine. This is particularly important due to the wide range of differences between different animal species. The broader the experience before starting the degree, the better. Furthermore, the work-experience placements will provide valuable contacts for when the student will be required to conduct care attachments during his/her studies at university.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

One of the central points of veterinary medicine not related to the academic side is the funding structure. Recognising the challenges that come in regard to the treatment of patients, as well as in regard to the interaction with owners, is an important component. Since the student experienced care in different practice settings, it is likely that he/she has come across this issue.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

Good statement giving good detail about the student and his/her motivation as well as his/her individual development. It could be improved by additional reflection on the challenges of veterinary practice, for example, the existing funding structures.

This Personal Statement for Vet Med is a good example of demonstrating motivation and development which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Cambridge, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

Go to our Free Personal Statement Resources page for even more successful personal statements and expert guides.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Cambridge Veterinary application.

With our  Cambridge Veterinary Science Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the NSAA and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

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Personal Statement

Admission committees look for applicants who capture the compassion as well as the passion for the field to which they wish to apply. The personal statement is your primary opportunity to distinguish yourself from the thousands of other applicants. Make a lasting impression by showing the admission committee who you are as a person and making the case that you possess the personality traits and characteristics to become a successful health care provider. 

The Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) prompt is: 

Discuss briefly the development of your interest in veterinary medicine. Discuss those activities and unique experiences that have contributed to your preparation for a professional program. Discuss your understanding of the veterinary medical profession, and discuss your career goals and objectives. 

Here are some tips specific to veterinary school personal statement: 

• Do not regurgitate experiences and other data already existing on other parts of the application.
• Write about your knowledge of the veterinary profession.
• Include information about who you are as a person and what diversity you might bring to the institution.
• Include information about why you'd be a good candidate.

1. Brainstorm

Questions to ask yourself before you write.

• Who are the most influential people in your life? What did they do for you?
• What have been the pivotal moments in your life? 
• What accomplishments are you most proud of?
• What obstacles have you overcome?
• What makes you different?
• How will your skills and personality traits add diversity to the class?
• Do you feel a passion for medicine? What is the source of that passion?
• What do you want medical schools to know about you that hasn't been disclosed in other sections of the application? 
• How would your family and friends describe you?
• What are your goals and dreams?

Compile an inventory of all the activities, experiences, and relationships/influences that have helped to define the person you are today. Looking back, what can you recall having changed you? How were you affected? What lessons did you learn? What personality traits do they reflect in you? These notes will help you identify the topics or themes on which to focus your statement. As you are brainstorming, you may identify experiences that stir strong emotions. These experiences are likely to be meaningful to you and therefore may be good material for your personal statement. Speak from your heart. 

2. Start Writing

Identify your word limit.

Word/character limits for personal statements vary across professions so it is important that you identify your word or character limit before you start writing. The limit for the veterinary school application (VMCAS) is 5000 characters. Generally speaking, this is roughly one page single-spaced. Character limits for common health professions' application services (all include spaces): Allopathic medicine (AMCAS): 5300 characters. For Texas schools (TMDSAS): 5000 characters Osteopathic medicine (AACOMAS): 4500 characters Dentistry (AADSAS): 4500 characters Veterinary (VMCAS): 5000 characters Physician Assistant (CASPA): 5000 characters Accelerated Nursing programs: varies by school; for schools using NursingCAS, the limit is 5000 characters Physical Therapy (PTCAS): 4500 characters Public Health (SOPHAS): 1500 words

Get It on the Page For your first draft, don't get hung up on your beginning or ending. Instead, just start writing. You may feel the urge to write a lot about your personal journey; if so, run with it. This may provide you with good material and you can edit it later. 

• Identify the most significant aspects from your notes that will enable you to address one or more of the following standard topics:
• Your motivation for this career
• Influence of your family and early experiences on your life
• Influence of your extracurriculars, volunteer activities, and/or jobs on your life (what have you learned, how have you demonstrated leadership, and how have you matured?)
• Your qualifications (unique attributes, personal qualities, and/or skills that set you apart) 
• Long term goals 

Use your experiences to provide personal insight into your personal attributes. Weave a story that helps the reader understand who you are as a person rather than simply listing your achievements. Avoid repeating information that is included elsewhere on your application unless you are elaborating on how an experience has shaped you and your motivation for a career as a health professional. 

Address Academic Irregularities If Necessary

You may wish to use a section of your personal statement to address academic irregularities such as withdrawals, incompletes, repeated courses, or significant fluctuations in your academic record. If applicable, you may mention special hardships, challenges, or obstacles that may have influenced your academic performance. Instead of making excuses, acknowledge and explain the situation, and if applicable, what you are doing differently and what you have learned. 

Take Your Time and Take Breaks

• Take breaks from writing instead of trying to write everything in one sitting. Picking up your draft later can test whether your writing flows. 
• Read your writing aloud and listen to what you hear to check for grammatical errors, flow, and clarity. 

3. Organize Your Writing

Overall shape of the essay.

There is no one correct format for a personal statement. Strong personal statements often begin with a brief background that will serve as the foundation for the message you wish to convey. The bulk of the essay will illustrate the impression you wish to make on the reader, and will flow into a succinct conclusion. Always keep in mind that your essay must be interesting enough to immediately grab the reader's attention and compelling enough to hold it whether your essay is the first or fiftieth one the reader has seen that day. Though you are not limited to these examples, some people find it helpful to use one of the following approaches:

• I've always wanted to be a doctor/dentist/veterinarian
• My parents are health care providers
• Being a patient/having a sick family member made me want to become a health care provider
• My experiences in a clinical environment piqued/confirmed my interest in the health professions
• Through my [non-health care] experiences, I have developed the skills and personal qualities to be an effective health care provider.

Organizational Strategy 

You may find it helpful to use one of the following  types of organizational strategies with your outline:

Standard structure: This type of organization is one you are probably very familiar with from your academic writing. In your first paragraph, you introduce the main points of your essay. In the following paragraphs, you provide evidence to support each of your main points (usually defending one point per paragraph). In your final paragraph, you reiterate your main points in the context of the evidence you presented, possibly leaving the reader with some "big idea" that takes your message one step further.

Comparison: This organizational structure attempts to draw a comparison or analogy between two seemingly unrelated things. In the case of medical school applicants, these essays usually compare a non-medical life experience/talent/interest/famous quote with the field of medicine or the applicant's desire to pursue medicine. It is common for applicants to begin with a story, personal anecdote, quote as a lead and then spend the rest of the essay describing how the lead relates to or sheds light on medicine or their goal of becoming a physician.

If you use this structure, make sure that you provide adequate reflection on how your two disparate ideas connect (or don't connect) to each other. Make your arguments explicit; don't leave it up to the audience to figure out your points. Also, don't get too abstract or philosophical in your comparisons. You don't need to say something profound; rather, just be yourself. Remember, your discussion should always lead back to you and your motivations to enter your health profession of choice.   

Chronology: In this type of outline, the writer takes the reader through the various steps in his/her life that led him/her to medicine. The introduction is usually the initial event that started the writer on his/her journey toward becoming a doctor. The writer then generally recounts the subsequent events in which he/she further explored and/or was further drawn into the medical profession before concluding with how all these events brought him/her to where he/she is today.

The advantage of this approach is that it allows for a more personal approach and helps the admissions committee to know you by turning the focus of the essay to you throughout the various stages of your life. The drawback is that the points you are trying to make can get lost in the narration of your life. To avoid this potential danger, make sure you clearly state how each of these events shaped you and your decision to pursue a health profession as well as the important lessons you learned along the way.

Opening Sentence

Your opening sentence can simultaneously set the theme of your essay and engage the reader. Here are some different types of leads you may wish to try out:

Standard:  State what you will be talking about in the paper. This can take on the form of a "thesis" in many ways (i.e. "My interest in medicine began with my trip to Honduras"). This lead sets up the reader for a focused, well-structured essay and helps you to get the point quickly (infinitely useful in a short essay like the personal statement). Creative:  Add interest by making the reader wonder what will come next (i.e. "I was awoken by the beating of African drums that filled the air"). Action:  Take the reader into the middle of the action. This is useful if you're trying to conserve space or if your essay begins with a story (i.e. "Our car breaks screeched as the truck came hurtling toward us"). Personal:  Reveal something about you (i.e. "My grandmother's words touched my soul like nothing else"). Quotation:  Begin with a direct quotation or paraphrase whose meaning pertains to the main points you are trying to convey in your essay (i.e. "FDR once proclaimed that 'the only thing we have to fear is fear itself,' and I have frequently tried to follow his advice"). Avoid using clichés. 

Dialogue:  Put the reader into the middle of a conversation, whether it be an actual talk between two people or your own internal thoughts (i.e. "'I don't want to die,' cried the little girl"). Informative:  State a fact that is relevant to the topic of your essay (i.e. "Every doctor remembers her first patient"). 

Ask yourself if your essay can stand without an introduction. It may be appropriate to simply begin with the action of the story (in media res as they say) and then move on to discussing how that story ties into the points you will be making throughout the rest of the essay. 

Tie together the most important points you've made in your essay to bring the reader full-circle. The final sentence or two of your essay can be enough for a conclusion, especially if you're running low on space. The important thing is to make sure you bring your thoughts to their logical end and create a positive, memorable image in the reader's mind. Endings are the last experience the admissions committee will have with your essay, so your goal should be to leave them thinking that it was a satisfying read and wishing that there was more.

4. Get Feedback

Find someone to give you critical feedback who isn't afraid to hurt your feelings. Give your draft to multiple sources to get different perspectives. Ideally you should ask someone who is a good writer to help you with your writing, someone who knows you well enough to verify if your writing sounds like you, and someone who doesn't know you as well who can provide perspective on the impression you are making. Clarity in your writing will reflect good communication skills. By the end of the statement, the reader should be able to see the world through your eyes.   

5. Refine Your Writing

The most important part of the personal statement is the impression of yourself that you are creating. After reading your personal statement, readers may ask themselves if you would be interesting to interview. 

Quality of Writing

It is expected that your personal statement be error-free. Grammatical errors may reflect carelessness. 

Further resources

For further advice on writing personal statements in general, visit the Writing Center Resources page.

Contact Name

Courtney Hance

Director of Health Professions Advising

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