Almost four years have passed since I made the decision to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. I come from what may be considered an atypical background - I haven't known since I was five that I wanted to be a veterinarian; I haven't even known since I was twenty five. I majored in sociology as an undergraduate student, with a dual focus on organizational theory and criminology; and a minor concentration in classical piano and conducting. Although quite interested in both areas (intellectually in the former, and quite passionately in the latter), neither figured into my career choices. I left college with no clear path. So I did what any 21 year old would do - I moved to New York City and got a job with a temp agency. The big difference in my case is that I was originally from the city, so there was no adjustment period. I did eventually begin full time employment with a classical music publishing company, but as a database manager and promotions/publicity "specialist." This eventually led to a more focused position as an web applications project manager and DB programmer. Wow. How unfulfilling that was.
The one constant has always been animal rescue work, with a firm focus on cats, particularly "special needs" cats with social and medical problems. Three of my "projects" are currently living in my household. The most recent rescue group was affiliated with a veterinary clinic in Brooklyn, and through them I saw the dedicated work of the medical teams that work with animals on a daily basis. One particular hard-luck foster piqued my interest, and I realized what it was I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
However, the decision didn't make the path any easier. I had none of the required science background, and even less of the clinical knowledge which is so essential for acceptance to veterinary school in the United States. Each of you reading this, whether undergraduate applying directly from college, or mature student with an entire life of experiences behind, will recognize the rest of the story. I took science classes for three years and worked as a veterinary technician (first as a volunteer and then in a paid position), gained clinical experience, worked with a large animal practitioner, and essentially made a case for the admissions committees that I was aware of the challenges of the field, and wasn't just looking for puppies and kittens.
Which brings me to the crux of this entire blog. Why the Royal Veterinary College? Why London? Why . . . why . . . why . . .
In the United States, say "institution" and you conjure up an image of staid and fixed, with little capacity for change, and no motivation for innovation. The Royal Veterinary College (from hereon RVC) is certainly an institution, but it doesn't fit the stereotype - not in the slightest. As the oldest veterinary school in the English speaking world, it has had plenty of time to mire in tradition. Consequently, it has done nothing of the sort. Particularly in the past few years, innovation and change have been the bywords, in curriculum, approach to teaching, and just general attitude. I'll certainly have a lot to say about this over the next few months.
So, I loved the approach to learning, and I loved the idea of studying outside the United States. The benefits are amazing. For example, did you know that a degree from the RVC is recognized not only by the AVMA, but also by the European Union, Australia, New Zealand, any former or current commonwealth nation . . . that encompasses all of the English speaking world, and a large percentage of the rest. Everywhere else? They recognize the quality of education, and don't make you jump through too many hoops if you want to practice under their auspices.
So, without sounding like too much of an advertisement, I'll say this: you're in the game and you're considering your options. Consider the RVC very seriously. Check this blog for updates on my experiences. Let me know if you have any questions. And good luck!
