Veterinary Science 18 Personal Statement
I have always wanted to work with animals. When I was younger I would eagerly watch “Super Vets” and anticipate the weekend so I could go horse riding. My passion for Science and my desire to know how the way things work mean that Veterinary Medicine is the perfect course for me. I love the challenge of solving problems and the variety of animals and diseases would keep me constantly fascinated by the course.
My desire to study Veterinary Medicine was intensified after undertaking two weeks work experience at a small animal practice. I observed operations ranging from simple spays and castrations to the tumour removal from a rat and orthopaedic repairs. I also witnessed ultrasound scans and a bronchoscopy. I was able to assist during the week by holding animals for scans and monitoring them after surgery. Throughout my work experience it was apparent that sensitivity is essential, as owners can be very passionate about their pets. During consultations, I discovered that Lungworm is a particular problem in the Gower area. This interested me so I researched how the parasites affect animals and how they are spread. Through research on further diseases, I became interested by the proposals for badger control through culling, to reduce the spread of bovine Tuberculosis. I am studying the effects of biological control in Biology and understand the need for trial culls to test the repercussions of the cull on the surrounding habitat and its ecosystem. The DEFRA website has been very useful for information on TB and others such as Foot and Mouth disease. During a few days work experience at a farm, I learnt about the handling of lambs and also carried out the ringing of lambs’ tails.
I have always had an interest in horses and used to ride at a stable. For about five years I spent every weekend at the local riding stables. By making up the feed, I was able to learn about the diet of horses. I learnt how to handle horses safely and studied their basic anatomy. Through assisting with lessons, I learnt to appreciate how important it is to communicate with people when working with animals. I have collected letters about vaccines and common illnesses from a local practice. The letters show the need for good communication between vet and owner. On a recent trip to Swansea University, I visited a Chemistry lab and synthesised aspirin. From this, I discovered the need of chemical analysis and purity of drugs during research into new drugs. I have also organised a weeks’ work experience at a dairy farm for October half term.
I have always relished in participating in many activities both in and out of school. For seven years I have been a member of Swansea Sea Cadets. Through going up the ranks I have developed my leadership and communication skills and also learnt how to work with different types of people. I was especially pleased to be selected as Lord Lieutenant’s cadet for this year. It was through cadets that I found my love of sailing. In September, after many years of practicing my boat handling skills, I won a gold medal at the Sea Cadet National sailing boat handling competition. I am doing my RYA Dinghy Instructor’s course at the end of October. I am a senior prefect in my school which entails organising the school prom and managing the prefects. I play netball for my school which further develops my teamwork skills. I have achieved grade 5 clarinet and grade 7 piano and am currently working towards grade 8. After finishing my silver Duke of Edinburgh award, I am now working towards my gold award.
Being a modern vet needs the ability to work with others, to organise their time well and most importantly have a passion for the subject. All of these I feel I possess and would develop by studying at University. I relish a challenge and would thoroughly enjoy combining my love of Science and animals by studying Veterinary Medicine.
Universities Applied to:
- Bristol - rejected without interview
- Bristol (chemistry) - offered interview but I withdrew
- Cambridge - A*AA (A in chemistry)
- Nottingham - rejected without interview
- RVC - interview then rejected
