With recent advances, such as the development of a new cancer treatment in dogs, veterinary medicine is full of exciting changes; something that I want to be a part of. Having observed vets in a number of practices, I realise that the work of a vet is not restricted to an operating theatre or consultation room - recent public health issues like bovine TB have shown that disease has a major impact on farming, the food industry and the livelihoods of farmers. Research, development, and treatment continue to be a vet's priority.
I have enjoyed reading editions of 'Veterinary Record', in particular an article on the human-animal bond; having experienced this first-hand, I understand how animals can improve a person's quality of life. This year, I gained a Silver award in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, which tested my ability to apply existing knowledge to unfamiliar situations. I earned the Silver Crest Award with my project on Comparative Anatomy, where I made accurate scientific drawings of animal forelimbs, enabling me to research extensively outside of the syllabus and gain greater insight into the species variation in bone structure. Lectures from PhD students at the University of Manchester demonstrated the importance of research in driving forward scientific understanding, in this case the evolutionary relationships between different invertebrates; the study of genetics and zoology could be essential in the treatment of previously undiscovered or endangered species.
Having completed ten weeks of work experience, I have seen the varied nature of veterinary life. During a week spent in a small-animal practice, I observed first opinion consultations, and scrubbed up to assist the vet in standard operations, including spays and castrations, and also more complex procedures, including a Tibial Tuberosity Advancement for the treatment of cruciate disease. I listened to company representatives introducing their new Leptospirosis vaccine protecting against four strains rather than the conventional two - this provided insight into the economics of introducing new vaccines and the business aspect of running a practice. I also saw the more negative aspects in the euthanasia of a pet, a situation where the empathy and professionalism of the vet is invaluable. A week spent at a boarding kennels and cattery demonstrated the importance of correct animal husbandry, as well as how the temperament of an animal can change when away from home. It is essential to maintain hygiene, along with a routine to make the animal feel comfortable. During my week at a sheep and beef farm in lambing season, I bottle fed premature and small lambs; vaccinated young lambs and helped to deliver a lamb in difficulty, all of which exposed me to the problems farmers face and how these can be overcome. My time at an abattoir showed me that vets are essential in protecting public health and animal welfare. My other placements include two weeks at another small animal practice; a week at a stables; a week at a poultry and pork farm; a week at a large animal practice; a week at a sheep and dairy farm and a week at an exotic pet shop. I have also arranged a week's placement at a veterinary laboratory in October half term.
Due to the large number of customers, my part-time job in a children's play centre has improved my communication skills with people of all ages, invaluable in a veterinary practice since a high level of trust is required between vet and client. I also enjoy playing the piano, passing the performance DipABRSM in summer 2013. Teaching piano has also been one of my interests, as I enjoy sharing my skills with others.
A variety of work experience placements has shown me the diversity in veterinary careers open to me once qualified. Despite the long hours and sometimes emotional circumstances, I have the resilience and motivation to succeed in the fast-paced environment that involves the life of a vet, and am eager to advance in my chosen subject.
Universities Applied to:
- Cambridge (Veterinary Medicine D100) - Offer (A*A*A) Firm
- Bristol (Veterinary Science D100) - Offer (AAA) Insurance
- Liverpool (Veterinary Science D100) - Rejection
- Nottingham (Veterinary Medicine & Surgery D100) - Rejection
Grades Achieved:
- Biology A2 - A*
- Chemistry A2 - A*
- Maths A2 - A*
- Music A2 - A
- Physics AS - A
