I'm currently on a gap year and applying for veterinary nursing courses at various universities.
I've done four weeks of work experience in a veterinary practice, which is more than most of them require, but I have a problem: I wasn't able to get a reference from the practice where I did my work experience, as it was the company rule that they weren't allowed to give them. I didn't find this out until I asked near the end of the placement. I was deeply disappointed as the placement went well and verbally, their feedback was always very positive.
Now I'm extremely worried that I won't be able to get a university place without a detailed reference.
The obvious solution is to find more work experience at a place which would be able to give me a reference, and I have been contacting other practices, but had no more replies so far. It also means that I can't be applying for temporary paid work to save money before university, and that I'm home all the time desperately wanting to work (whether in a paid setting or more voluntary experience) but unable to get in anywhere, and feeling like I'm going nowhere.
Thank you for taking the time to read this -- if you have any similar experience, or any suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated. I'm quite lost right now.