I applied for 2006 entry, to the RVC (London), Nottingham, Bristol and Liverpool. Liverpool rejected me without interview, Bristol interviewed me but later rejected me, Nottingham interviewed me and offered me a place conditional on my getting AAB and RVC interviewed me and offered me a place conditional on my getting AAA. The RVC was my first choice and I'm now in my second year of study here (as of April 2008).
My earliest memory is of being held aloft by my grandfather so that I might stroke a dog which lay under anaesthetic; he was a vet, and we were in the practice of which he was a partner. Although he died when I was five, he sparked in me a desire to become a vet myself, and by leaving all his veterinary literature to me, he only served to fuel my ambition - from an early age I pored over the diagrams and attempted to understand the complex scientific language, but it was only as I furthered my education and developed a fascination with biology that I was able to fully appreciate the texts. As a toddler, I thought it would be nice to make sick animals feel better; now, I am attracted to the veterinary profession because it encompasses all that I find desirable in a career: a basis in science, working with animals, communication and the opportunity to diversify and specialise. My interest has extended far beyond its origin - I am constantly striving for a more comprehensive understanding of science and animal husbandry. I began organising work placements four years ago, and have amassed over six months' worth of experience, comprised of week-long stints in various establishments. I aimed to work with the most diverse range of creatures possible; I am now confident dealing with farm animals, equines, birds (swans, owls, and raptors), reptiles, exotics, such as tarantulas and scorpions, and small domestic animals. I am very independent and passed my driving test quickly so that I could transport myself to work placements. As well as a Sunday job which pays for my petrol, I work as an assistant in a veterinary practice, where my responsibilities include restocking medicines, sterilising instruments and drapes, cleaning kennels, looking after inpatients, dealing with the public, and assisting the vets and nurses during consultations and surgical procedures. In addition to my work experience, I have spent termtime Wednesday afternoons at the Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy, working with horses and children with disabilities, and this has proved invaluable in enhancing my communication skills. I have placed much emphasis on developing my ability to work with people to the fullest extent. To this end, I have participated in reading schemes with a junior school, and in hospital visiting, so that I might have a chance to speak with all age groups, including those in a state of distress. I chose to study English Language, Chemistry and Biology at A2, as I felt Physics had reached its maximum relevance to veterinary science by AS Level stage. English, by contrast, is boundless in its value for a career in the public sector, and I have ensured the relevance of the subject to my future is maximised, by choosing to analyse the language used in veterinary consultations for my major coursework project. As my AS Level grades for Physics and Chemistry were not 'A's, I have decided to decline them so that I may change these grades for my own fulfilment. In my spare time, I enjoy horse-riding, swimming, and caring for my own pets; however, I still strive for the most in-depth knowledge possible where my hobbies are concerned. When my pet chinchillas had a surprise baby, I became fascinated by the genetics involved in producing coat colours, and I am now established as a hobby breeder with several show quality animals. I own a riding pony for pleasure, but two years ago became interested in the training of youngsters, and bought a feral New Forest foal. At first he was impossible to even approach - he is now of an exceptionally good nature and showing great promise. The experience of taming him, then preparing him to be broken, has been unique and very rewarding. Consequentially, I feel I could not be better prepared for the challenges of veterinary medicine, that I have a very complete knowledge of what the job entails and would sincerely enjoy a career in such a field.
