Hello!
So since I haven't yet received my interview feedback (I have emailed to ask for it
) there's not too much I can say about say the interview process, as I performed well enough for gateway, but apparently not for D100; ill let you know when I hear back though!
As for the general application process, I qualified for entry due to home income, which automatically gives you the minimum points. On top of this, I had also done an online "course" of sorts on Sutton trust online, which further proved my criteria.
As for the summer school; is that the Sutton trust one or the regular £3000 one? Because I had gotten a place when I applied last year to the costly one, and chose not to go for plenty of reasons- mostly including the insane cost (really, 2 weeks activities for a third of a years tuition?) and the fact they've explicitly stated they do not show preference to those who've done the 'summer school that's really a glorified holiday', but hey, if you can afford to, and accept that it won't affect your chances, go ahead
@RambleAmple did go however, so feel free to ask them about it.
For work experience, the gateway actually has no required hours. Im sure it doesn't hurt though, as its endlessly helpful for your statement, interview and general approach. Im so much wiser about the whole thing than I was before all those hours of hard work!
Generally, vet schools prefer variety/quality over quantity, though in saying this, a long term commitment (say, volunteering after school once or twice a week for a few months) shows dedication, and is looked well upon. Best approach; get a bit of everything; abattoir, lab and exotic can really help stand out, but understandably they're difficult to arrange! I emailed 10+ abattoirs, but only got to one via a contact
You really do have to just suck it up and be annoying for once though in putting yourself out there- I chanced my luck emailing the government labs and they actually said yes- so it gets results...eventually!
The UCAS process itself is...stressful! Id say don't worry too much over your statement- just avoid cliches like 'I've always wanted to be a vet since age 4' and 'I love animals and science' (both are a given for every applicant!) but really put your all into, and think carefully before answering your SAQ questions! If I recall correctly, I don't know if gateway applicants need to do one, I only remember filling out my "why I meet criteria" form, but this could be as they used my D100 essay for both applications
If you'd like to talk more personally, please let me know