Successful Applicant Stats - Class of 2021

[SkiOtter]

Also finally decided to make an account! So excited to be able to post on here, but still facing a huge decision of deciding!!! Would welcome any advice!

I would also like to provide some hope for those who don't have hundreds of hours of veterinary experience. We can do it too!

22 year old female, Iowa resident, first time applicant

Applied: Iowa State University, University of Edinburgh, Cornell University
Interviewed: Iowa State, Edinburgh
Rejected: Cornell
Waitlisted: N/A
Accepted: Edinburgh, Iowa State
Attending: AHHHH I still need to decide!!! But leaning toward Edinburgh...

Overall GPA: 3.70
Science GPA: 3.66
Last 45 GPA: 3.74

Degree: BA Biology 2017

GRE (V/Q/W): 159 (82%), 158 (70%), 4.5

Veterinary Experience:
SA clinic shadowing - 50 hours
Mixed clinic shadowing - 9 hours (at time of application); ~100 hours added since application

Animal Experience:
Volunteer enrichment team leader at local zoo - 400 hours
Unit counselor at Girl Scout Camp (worked with the horses) - 100 hours

Research:
Undergrad researcher with Ag. Research Service at the USDA - 200 hours (co-authorship on paper)
Biology Lab attendant - 168 hours
Student researcher in South Africa - 540 hours
Course research in South Africa - 560 hours
Course research at home institution - 400 hours +

Employment:
Student Union Center Staff - 440 hours+
Student Cafe Student Manager - 380 hours
Temp Financial Assistant at Insurance Company - 320 hours

Extracurricular/Community Service:
Community Theater Troupe member - 70 hours
Community Activities planning committee (high school) - 240 hours
Science Student Mentor/Planning committee - 200 hours

Awards:
One semester Dean's list
Student Legislative Representative - one semester
National Council on Youth Leadership (high school)
Scholarship recipient at college
AP scholar with distinction (high school)

eLORs:
PI at the USDA, and her post-doc mentor (a vet pathologist) wrote together
PI from research in South Africa
College adviser
Animal behavior prof/my previous college adviser

Personal Statement:
Talked about how I'm not afraid to get dirty when I'm working with animals; talked about my specific interests in wildlife med and exotics, from my experiences in South Africa, and how I supplemented my less-traditional experiences and interests with clinical shadowing and research

go with whatever's cheapesttttttttttt
youll thank yourself later.

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[battie]

I was about to say, most people on SDN will suggest saving money.

 

[SummerTheLynx]

Also finally decided to make an account! So excited to be able to post on here, but still facing a huge decision of deciding!!! Would welcome any advice!

I would also like to provide some hope for those who don't have hundreds of hours of veterinary experience. We can do it too!

22 year old female, Iowa resident, first time applicant

Applied: Iowa State University, University of Edinburgh, Cornell University
Interviewed: Iowa State, Edinburgh
Rejected: Cornell
Waitlisted: N/A
Accepted: Edinburgh, Iowa State
Attending: AHHHH I still need to decide!!! But leaning toward Edinburgh...

Overall GPA: 3.70
Science GPA: 3.66
Last 45 GPA: 3.74

Degree: BA Biology 2017

GRE (V/Q/W): 159 (82%), 158 (70%), 4.5

Veterinary Experience:
SA clinic shadowing - 50 hours
Mixed clinic shadowing - 9 hours (at time of application); ~100 hours added since application

Animal Experience:
Volunteer enrichment team leader at local zoo - 400 hours
Unit counselor at Girl Scout Camp (worked with the horses) - 100 hours

Research:
Undergrad researcher with Ag. Research Service at the USDA - 200 hours (co-authorship on paper)
Biology Lab attendant - 168 hours
Student researcher in South Africa - 540 hours
Course research in South Africa - 560 hours
Course research at home institution - 400 hours +

Employment:
Student Union Center Staff - 440 hours+
Student Cafe Student Manager - 380 hours
Temp Financial Assistant at Insurance Company - 320 hours

Extracurricular/Community Service:
Community Theater Troupe member - 70 hours
Community Activities planning committee (high school) - 240 hours
Science Student Mentor/Planning committee - 200 hours

Awards:
One semester Dean's list
Student Legislative Representative - one semester
National Council on Youth Leadership (high school)
Scholarship recipient at college
AP scholar with distinction (high school)

eLORs:
PI at the USDA, and her post-doc mentor (a vet pathologist) wrote together
PI from research in South Africa
College adviser
Animal behavior prof/my previous college adviser

Personal Statement:
Talked about how I'm not afraid to get dirty when I'm working with animals; talked about my specific interests in wildlife med and exotics, from my experiences in South Africa, and how I supplemented my less-traditional experiences and interests with clinical shadowing and research

What's making you lean towards Edinburgh currently?

 

[nohika]

What's making you lean towards Edinburgh currently?

They posted that answer in the Factors when Choosing a School thread, I think.

 

[Florida_Future_DVM]

SO HAPPY I GET TO POST THIS!!!

Female, Florida Resident, 21y, First time applicant

Degree: Graduating in May with a Biology (B.S), Chemistry Minor

Applied: LSU, UF (IS), Auburn, UGA
Interviewed: UF, Auburn (LSU and UGA don't interview)
Waitlisted: EVERYWHERE UGH WHAT THE HECK
Accepted: Auburn!!! I will be pulling myself off the other waitlists!

Cum GPA: 3.83
Science GPA: 3.76
Last 45: 3.84
GRE: 309 (155/154/3.5)

Vet experience: (702)
Surgical Vet Tech at a spay+neuter clinic: 392 (ongoing at the time)
Vet Tech at a shelter: 306 (ongoing)
LA colic shadowing: 4
All of this was done within the span of 10 months!

Animal Experience: (133)
Volunteering in a barn: 55 (ongoing)
Shelter (walking dogs, events) 36
Riding therapy for special needs kids: 12
Docent at wildlife hospital: 30

Research: (235)
Organic chemistry research: 195 (ongoing)
Biology field research: 40 (ongoing)

Extracurriculars/Volunteering (1,087+)
Make a Wish volunteer- 57
Dance Marathon- 30
Two leadership positions in my sorority: 800
Vice President of the school dance company: 200
Honors College
Order of Omega Greek Honor Society

Employment: (3,576)
Orientation Leader- 930
Science tutor- 306
Retail- 1620
Server- 720
I have been working part or full time since I was 13 lol

Awards:
$1000 Honors program research grant
$500 Honors program involvement scholarship
Panhellenic Scholarship award
Presidents list (2 semesters)
Deans list (4 semesters)

ELORS:
Professor I did OChem research with (also took him for 2 classes)
Veterinarian at the SN clinic I volunteered at
Director of New Student Programs at my school (was my boss when I was an orientation leader)
In retrospect I should've gotten more vet LORs because my hours were low (I could've had two more vets write one)

Personal Statement
Basically a cover letter, very formal, I talked about my research and how working in a shelter setting prepared me to handle the emotional fatigue that can occur as a veterinarian. I also addressed deciding on Vet Med late in my college career and how doing 40+ veterinary/animal hours a week on top of school helped prepare me for the intensity of Vet school.

Supplementals
I made these conversational because my personal statement was very formal. I talked about losing 50 pounds (came up in every interview), the skills I gained holding 7+ campus leadership positions, and my research.

While I was disappointed to not receive a single initial acceptance, I really think my lack of veterinary hours (and hour diversity) was the killer in my application. Especially with UF as my instate. 700+ hours in 10 months is no joke as a full time student but I should've focused on earning more diverse hours. LEARN FROM ME!

 

[Emmy Senpai]

SO HAPPY I GET TO POST THIS!!!

Female, Florida Resident, 21y, First time applicant

Degree: Graduating in May with a Biology (B.S), Chemistry Minor

Applied: LSU, UF (IS), Auburn, UGA
Interviewed: UF, Auburn (LSU and UGA don't interview)
Waitlisted: EVERYWHERE UGH WHAT THE HECK
Accepted: Auburn!!! I will be pulling myself off the other waitlists!

Cum GPA: 3.83
Science GPA: 3.76
Last 45: 3.84
GRE: 309 (155/154/3.5)

Vet experience: (702)
Surgical Vet Tech at a spay+neuter clinic: 392 (ongoing at the time)
Vet Tech at a shelter: 306 (ongoing)
LA colic shadowing: 4
All of this was done within the span of 10 months!

Animal Experience: (133)
Volunteering in a barn: 55 (ongoing)
Shelter (walking dogs, events) 36
Riding therapy for special needs kids: 12
Docent at wildlife hospital: 30

Research: (235)
Organic chemistry research: 195 (ongoing)
Biology field research: 40 (ongoing)

Extracurriculars/Volunteering (1,087+)
Make a Wish volunteer- 57
Dance Marathon- 30
Two leadership positions in my sorority: 800
Vice President of the school dance company: 200
Honors College
Order of Omega Greek Honor Society

Employment: (3,576)
Orientation Leader- 930
Science tutor- 306
Retail- 1620
Server- 720
I have been working part or full time since I was 13 lol

Awards:
$1000 Honors program research grant
$500 Honors program involvement scholarship
Panhellenic Scholarship award
Presidents list (2 semesters)
Deans list (4 semesters)

ELORS:
Professor I did OChem research with (also took him for 2 classes)
Veterinarian at the SN clinic I volunteered at
Director of New Student Programs at my school (was my boss when I was an orientation leader)
In retrospect I should've gotten more vet LORs because my hours were low (I could've had two more vets write one)

Personal Statement
Basically a cover letter, very formal, I talked about my research and how working in a shelter setting prepared me to handle the emotional fatigue that can occur as a veterinarian. I also addressed deciding on Vet Med late in my college career and how doing 40+ veterinary/animal hours a week on top of school helped prepare me for the intensity of Vet school.

Supplementals
I made these conversational because my personal statement was very formal. I talked about losing 50 pounds (came up in every interview), the skills I gained holding 7+ campus leadership positions, and my research.

While I was disappointed to not receive a single initial acceptance, I really think my lack of veterinary hours (and hour diversity) was the killer in my application. Especially with UF as my instate. 700+ hours in 10 months is no joke as a full time student but I should've focused on earning more diverse hours. LEARN FROM ME!

Hi classmate!

 

[aussielover33]

I know everyone says this, but I literally am SO EXCITED to be able to post here!! The goal of my post is to influence people who are feeling down and let you know that you should never give up on your dream. Perseverance and hard work pays off people!! You get one life, do what makes you happy

24 yr old female, Georgia resident, 3rd time applicant

1st attempt:
Rejected from UGA

2nd attempt:
Rejected from Florida and UGA
Interviewed at Auburn but rejected
Waitlisted at LMU
Side note: I was pretty upset that I was taking a gap year, at first. However, I was given the opportunity to work in a mixed animal practice (which is what I am interested in) right next to the beach and it was the most amazing experience ever! Another positive is that I was able to save money to put toward vet school. So my advice- don't look as a gap year as a negative. I did at first and now I am SO grateful for the year off.

3rd attempt:
Applied: UGA, Mississippi State, Auburn, LMU
Rejected: None!!
Interviewed: Mississippi State, Auburn, LMU
Waitlisted: Auburn, LMU, UGA
Pending: UGA
Accepted: LMU, Auburn, Mississippi State
Attending: Auburn!!! Can't believe I am saying this, but WAR EAGLE!

Overall GPA: 3.6
Science GPA: 3.5
Last 45 (was a little different depending on the school): 3.62

Degree:
B.S. in Avian Biology (May 2016)

GRE (Q/V/W)
307 (153/154/4.0)

Veterinary Experience

Vet tech at animal emergency hospital small animal and equine (400 hours)
Vet assistant at small animal clinic (800 hrs)
Vet assistant at equine practice (200 hrs)
Shadowed at a rehab, fitness, and pain management practice (30 hrs)

Animal Experience:

Pet ownership (over 3,000 hrs)
Horse show volunteer (20 hrs)
Avian surgery student (80 hrs)- in my major we were able to do surgery on live chickens in undergrad, it was so cool!
Small animal shelter volunteer (100 hrs)

Honors/Awards:
Delta Epsilon Honors Society
Dean's List (entire undergrad career)
Sigma Alpha Lambda Honors Organization
National Society of Collegiate Scholars Member
Beta Beta Beta Honors Society
Hope Scholarship (entire undergrad career)
Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society

Research:
Research member of commercial poultry production (80 hrs)

LORs:
Professor of avian biomedical techniques class
Professor of cell biology class
Vet from equine practice
Vet from small animal practice
Vet from mixed animal practice

Personal statement:
I wrote about one of my first experiences with the equine vet, where a horse had an ear covered in tumors. The ear needed to be amputated, but the owner did not have the money for the procedure. I explained how this was a valuable lesson, because in this career it is important to provide the best treatment for the animal. However, the challenge is that you must also consider what the owner is willing/able to do. I went on to explain that my passion for animals and love of science has confirmed this is the career for me. I explained how volunteer work at multiple shelters led me to adopt my own rescue animal. I concluded by stating how my experiences have influenced my interest in small animal and equine medicine.

Notes:
Good luck to everyone!! Applying to vet school is a long, stressful process but you can do it! If you have any questions feel free to message me. I honestly still feel like this is a dream, but holy cow.... I am going to be a vet!!!!

 

[VulneraSanentura]

Yay I forgot this was a thing, I can't believe I get to add to it!!!

23 year old female, Illinois resident, second time applicant

First Time:
Applied: Illinois, Colorado, Mizzou, Minnesota
Interviewed: Illinois, Mizzou
Rejected: Colorado, Minnesota
Waitlisted: Illinois, Mizzou

Second Round:
Applied: Illinois, Purdue, Mississippi, Mizzou, LSU, Ross
Interviewed: Illinois, Mississippi, Ross
Rejected: Purdue, Mizzou (??)
Waitlisted: Illinois, Mississippi, LSU
Accepted: Mississippi!!
Attending: Mississippi!!!
Haven't heard from Ross about acceptance, still on Illinois' waitlist

Overall GPA: 3.50
Science GPA: not sure, probably lower b/c of chem
Last 45 GPA: 3.63

Degree: BS in Integrative Biology, Minor in Animal Sciences (UIUC)

GRE (V/Q/W): 160, 155, can't remember

**All this updated for this round**
Veterinary Experience:
Small Animal: 210 hrs
Large Animal: ~500 hrs (I think closer to 270 when I applied, I mentioned the extended hours in both my interviews)

Animal Experience:
Humane Society Medical intern: 350 hrs
Miscellaneous Horses: 85 hrs
Various relevant class labs/activities: 12 hrs
Lifetime pet owner (cats, dogs): I put down estimated hours, Illinois suggested about a half hr per day

Employment:
Lifeguard in HS: Unsure of hours, it was a few times a week from Memorial to Labor Day one summer

Extracurricular/Community Service:
Quidditch Team: Founder and President freshman to senior year
Rock climbing, weightlifting, swimming, drawing, painting, etc (non-club activities)
Middle and HS band
NHS and Interact club in HS for community service
Humane Society volunteer

Research:
Influence of prepartum maternal supplementation of beta-carotene on colostrum, health status of calves, and health status of dairy cows: 210 hrs

Awards:
NHS
Tri-M Music Scholar for 3 years
Dean's List 2015
I believe this was awards and achievements(?) so I think I put quidditch here as well

eLORs:
2 small animal vets
2 large animal vets
Mammology professor
Humane Society supervisor

Personal Statement:
Started off by talking about one of my greatest fears as being helpless, especially when it comes to an animal in need. Said that instead of it being a paralyzing fear, it drove me into action, to do all I can to learn how to be helpful, and medicine being the best course of action for me. Later talked about how starting the quidditch team helped me become a better leader, and how that leadership can translate into being a good veterinarian (communication, delegation, listening to those around you, etc). Also referred to how my creative pursuits engage my mine as well as my hand-eye coordination, something that needs to be fine tuned to do well in delicate surgeries. Did not state a specific route of veterinary medicine, only that I have been interested in all paths and that school will tell me what I'm best suited for.

Note:
If you did something out of the ordinary, put it in your application! I've had 4 interviews, and 3/4 asked me to talk about quidditch, 2 of them actually being part of the interview (one Illinois interviewer asked after the interview because they were so interested, but didn't want to interrupt the actual interview)

 

[doglover19]

21 yr old female, California Resident, 1st time applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Cornell, Tufts, UPenn, Washington, Missouri, Ohio, Georgia, Virginia, Kansas State, Wisconsin
Rejected: UC Davis, Cornell, Tufts, UPenn, Washington, Missouri, Ohio, Georgia, Virginia
Interviewed: Kansas State
Waitlisted: Kansas State, Wisconsin
Accepted: Wisconsin
Attending: Wisconsin!!!!

Overall Undergrad GPA: 3.52
Science Undergrad GPA: 3.53
Last 45 Undergrad GPA: 3.81

Degree: BS in Animal Science (June 2017)

GRE (Q/V/W):

148/153/4.5

Veterinary Experience

Small Animal Hours ~1800 Hours


Animal Experience

~750

Extracurricular/Awards
Leadership positions

Fellowships

Sorority
Research Experience:

Very little

Good Luck to Everyone Applying!!!! You can do it!!!!!!

 

[ILDSU]

I've delayed posting this, but I hope this provides hope to people with lower GPAs! I'm very grateful for how this application cycle turned out. Good luck to those applying in the future!

Female, 21, CA Resident, First Time Applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Washington State, Colorado State, Iowa State, Missouri, Ohio State, Tufts, Wisconsin, Royal Veterinary College, Glasgow

Rejected: UC Davis, Washington, Colorado, Missouri, Tufts, Wisconsin

Interviewed: Glasgow, Iowa, RVC, Ohio

Waitlisted: Iowa (withdrew)

Accepted: Glasgow, RVC, Ohio

Attending: RVC!

Degree: BS in Animal Science

Cumulative GPA: 3.39
Science GPA: 3.3
Last 45 GPA: 3.75
Last 30 GPA: 3.94
GRE: 54% Q, 68% V, 93% A

Vet experience: 500 hours, mostly small animal GP, minimal large animals and wildlife, small animal speciality

Animal Experience: 1000 hours, mostly small animal, some large animal

Research: 1 small research project with puppies

Extracurriculars: music, non-profit


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile

 

[sheltermed]

I've delayed posting this, but I hope this provides hope to people with lower GPAs! I'm very grateful for how this application cycle turned out. Good luck to those applying in the future!

Female, 21, CA Resident, First Time Applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Washington State, Colorado State, Iowa State, Missouri, Ohio State, Tufts, Wisconsin, Royal Veterinary College, Glasgow

Rejected: UC Davis, Washington, Colorado, Missouri, Tufts, Wisconsin

Interviewed: Glasgow, Iowa, RVC, Ohio

Waitlisted: Iowa (withdrew)

Accepted: Glasgow, RVC, Ohio

Attending: RVC!

Degree: BS in Animal Science

Cumulative GPA: 3.39
Science GPA: 3.3
Last 45 GPA: 3.75
Last 30 GPA: 3.94
GRE: 54% Q, 68% V, 93% A

Vet experience: 500 hours, mostly small animal GP, minimal large animals and wildlife, small animal speciality

Animal Experience: 1000 hours, mostly small animal, some large animal

Research: 1 small research project with puppies

Extracurriculars: music, non-profit


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile

Congrats on your acceptances! Just out of curiosity, what made you choose RVC over staying in the states and going to Ohio State? Also, will you be doing the 4-year or the 5-year program at RVC?

 

[EffervescentElephant]

I used to read these posts so much and now I get to post here wooo.

CA Resident// First time applying

Applied: UC Davis, Western University, Oregon State, Colorado State, Ohio State University, U of Minnesota, UPenn
Interviewed: UC Davis, Western University// [offered interview but did not attend] Purdue, Ohio State University, U of Minnesota,
Rejected: Oregon State, Colorado State
Waitlisted: Western University
Accepted: UC Davis
Attending: UC Davis!!

Overall GPA: 3.76
Science GPA: 3.77
Last 45 credits: 3.93

GRE (Q/V/W): 167/157/4.5

Veterinary Experience:
Small Animal Hospital ~800 Hours

Research Experience:
Emission research from beef cattle [became paid student lab assistant after a year] ~500 Hours

Animal Experience:
Ranch with different large animals ~ 170 Hours
Goat Farm ~ 70 Hours
Campus Dairy ~ 30 Hours

Non-Animal Employment:
nope

Extracurriculars / Etc:
Dean's List : 7 quarters

LORs:
Research PI
DVM from small animal hospital
DVM from ranch

Hmm... I would say I didn't get very much diverse veterinary hours, but I tried to balance it out by getting different kinds of animal experience. A lot of my research experience was essentially working with beef cattle all the time so I would say I got a good amount of large animal experience that way. I guess I could have gotten more different experience but I tried to really focus on getting my GPA up as much as I could. I only got accepted to one school but I was very happy with that and declined the other interviews after that point!

 

[Coopah]

I used to read these posts so much and now I get to post here wooo.

CA Resident// First time applying

Applied: UC Davis, Western University, Oregon State, Colorado State, Ohio State University, U of Minnesota, UPenn
Interviewed: UC Davis, Western University// [offered interview but did not attend] Purdue, Ohio State University, U of Minnesota,
Rejected: Oregon State, Colorado State
Waitlisted: Western University
Accepted: UC Davis
Attending: UC Davis!!

Overall GPA: 3.76
Science GPA: 3.77
Last 45 credits: 3.93

GRE (Q/V/W): 167/157/4.5

Veterinary Experience:
Small Animal Hospital ~800 Hours

Research Experience:
Emission research from beef cattle [became paid student lab assistant after a year] ~500 Hours

Animal Experience:
Ranch with different large animals ~ 170 Hours
Goat Farm ~ 70 Hours
Dairy Farm ~ 90 Hours

Non-Animal Employment:
nope

Extracurriculars / Etc:
Dean's List : 7 quarters

LORs:
Research PI
DVM from small animal hospital
DVM from ranch

Hmm... I would say I didn't get very much diverse veterinary hours, but I tried to balance it out by getting different kinds of animal experience. A lot of my research experience was essentially working with beef cattle all the time so I would say I got a good amount of large animal experience that way. I guess I could have gotten more different experience but I tried to really focus on getting my GPA up as much as I could. I only got accepted to one school but I was very happy with that and declined the other interviews after that point!

Congrats classmate! I look forward to meeting you!

 

[ILDSU]

Congrats on your acceptances! Just out of curiosity, what made you choose RVC over staying in the states and going to Ohio State? Also, will you be doing the 4-year or the 5-year program at RVC?

Thank you! I am doing the 4 year program. I really loved Ohio State, but in the end, my gut (and the result of several weeks of a logical decision making process) said RVC.
Cost was about the same between the two programs, and I've always wanted to live/do a degree abroad. I also really love the way RVC's curriculum is set up - I feel like it's a really good fit for me and will help me shape my future career in the way that I would like.


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile

 

[palahala]

I never got around to this, but I've always wanted to post here! I'm a nice example that you don't have to have perfect scores to get in!

26 yr old female | Florida res | 1st time applying

Degree: Graduated May 2013 with a BS in Anthropology, minors in Biology and Spanish

Applied: UF, Tufts, Cornell, VA-MD, Illinois, LMU
Interviewed: UF, Tufts, Illinois (declined interview - they waited soooo long to notify people and I ran out of time off), LMU (declined)
Waitlisted for an interview at VA-MD and I removed myself from the waitlist
Rejected: UF
Accepted: Tufts, Cornell
Attending: Tufts

Overall GPA: 3.6
Science GPA: 3.01 (!)
Last 45 credits: 3.6

GRE (Q/V/W): 1st time - 153/163/4, 2nd time - 148(oops)/165/4.5

Veterinary Experience: (super guesstimated, can't remember the specific numbers)
Kennel/Vet assistant at a spay & neuter clinic ~500 hours
Zoo vet internship ~480 hrs
Shadowing zoo&aquarium vets ~30 hrs
Shadowing shelter vet ~40 hrs
VIDA trip ~24 hrs (small animal + large animal)
Assisting zoo vets as an animal keeper ~40 hrs

Research Experience:
Not even one second

Animal Experience:
Full time zookeeper ~1200 hrs at time of application
Volunteer zookeeper ~350 hrs
Various zoo education positions ~2500 hrs
Sea turtle night walks ~40 hrs
I think there might have been more, but there's definitely a theme here

Non-Animal Employment:
Outdoor science school educator
Day camp counselor
Disney college program in attractions

Extracurriculars / Etc:
Dean's List every semester
Honors program (we had a separate curriculum in addition to the regular major coursework)
Leader in Honors Program
Departmental honors project related to public perception of great apes
Lots of singing/choir in college/through my job

I also got a Master's in Environmental Education through an online program when I thought that was the direction I wanted to go in

LORs:
Senior keeper (she was my mentor)
Zoo Education manager
DVM in charge of my (pretty major) zoo (technically never worked with him as a vet, but I guess it counted)
2 professors from my master's program (Tufts only really wanted professors/vets, which was tough because I had way more work experience)

Thoughts:
So I went into this basically assuming I was going to have to apply more than once - I was totally floored to have been accepted first try. That being said, I was also at least kind of strategic in the schools I applied to - my experience is VERY heavily weighted towards zoo animals, and I looked at schools that I thought would appreciate this, as well as offer me a leg up in the zoo med field. The interviewers in both of my interviews commented that I had the experience to back up my stated interest in zoo med, which I think set me apart a bit.

My road to this point has been a bit all over the place, but I don't regret any of my experiences in the slightest. I went through undergrad planning to be a vet, but I discovered that I loved working in zoo education and tried that instead. Still, everything I've done is going to help me succeed as a vet, and I think the adcoms agreed. Tufts and Cornell both seemed to look at me as a whole rounded person, which probably helped them overlook the huge weak points in my application. On the other hand, UF is playing a super heavy numbers game, and mine just didn't add up. I chose to attend Tufts rather than apply again to UF because I don't think their answer was ever going to change - my numbers were just not good enough.

I'm incredibly excited to start school and I think Tufts is a great fit for me!

 

[TheDMV-DVM]

Applied: Penn, A&M, Tufts, Mizzou, LMU, western u
Interviewed: western U (declined invite), A&M, Tufts
Accepted: LMU, A&M
Attending: A&M!

Overall GPA: 3.79
Science GPA: 3.70
Last 45 GPA: 3.80

Degree: BS of Biomedical science
GRE (Q/V/W): 157 (70%) / 155 / 4.0 (59%)

Veterinary Experience about 500 total
small animal clinic
Large animal hospital
zoo clinic
equine clinic

Animal Experience
fostering 2,000 hours
Zoo internship 365 hours

Work experience
Casheir at a Pizza place - 2.5 years
Tutor for A&M - 3 years

Non-Animal Volunteering
Old folk's home
battered women's shelter
anti-drug & bullying presenter to local elementary schools

Extracurriculars/Awards
Dean's honor roll X6
a few scholarships
honor society
distinguished pre-vet club memener

LORs
Small animal vet
Zoo supervisor
Zoo supervisor

Personal Statement
I wrote about how I grew up watching my mother's dog help her heal physically and emotionally from a debilitating disease and how this shaped my view of the human- animal bond. I then went into the kind of vet I wanted to be and how one of my goals is to emphasize patient education.

TMDSAS also has two optional essays you can submit. If you are applying to A&M I RECOMMEND YOU SUBMIT THEM!

Diversity essay: I wrote about how my fiancee is from Pakistan and the culture shock I felt when traveling overseas to meet his family. While overwhelming at first, it made me more accepting and I learned how to utilize our differences for innovation

Unique Expierence: I wrote about my time interning at the zoo and how I raised some of the birds from when they were literally eggs. Working at the zoo gave me a new perspective to the human-animal bond; one of education, conservation, and wonderment.

 

[sheltermed]

Applied: Penn, A&M, Tufts, Mizzou, LMU, western u
Interviewed: western U (declined invite), A&M, Tufts
Accepted: LMU, A&M
Attending: A&M!

Overall GPA: 3.79
Science GPA: 3.70
Last 45 GPA: 3.80

Degree: BS of Biomedical science
GRE (Q/V/W): 157 (70%) / 155 / 4.0 (59%)

Veterinary Experience about 500 total
small animal clinic
Large animal hospital
zoo clinic
equine clinic

Animal Experience
fostering 2,000 hours
Zoo internship 365 hours

Work experience
Casheir at a Pizza place - 2.5 years
Tutor for A&M - 3 years

Non-Animal Volunteering
Old folk's home
battered women's shelter
anti-drug & bullying presenter to local elementary schools

Extracurriculars/Awards
Dean's honor roll X6
a few scholarships
honor society
distinguished pre-vet club memener

LORs
Small animal vet
Zoo supervisor
Zoo supervisor

Personal Statement
I wrote about how I grew up watching my mother's dog help her heal physically and emotionally from a debilitating disease and how this shaped my view of the human- animal bond. I then went into the kind of vet I wanted to be and how one of my goals is to emphasize patient education.

TMDSAS also has two optional essays you can submit. If you are applying to A&M I RECOMMEND YOU SUBMIT THEM!

Diversity essay: I wrote about how my fiancee is from Pakistan and the culture shock I felt when traveling overseas to meet his family. While overwhelming at first, it made me more accepting and I learned how to utilize our differences for innovation

Unique Expierence: I wrote about my time interning at the zoo and how I raised some of the birds from when they were literally eggs. Working at the zoo gave me a new perspective to the human-animal bond; one of education, conservation, and wonderment.

Congrats on your acceptances, well deserved! Best of luck

 

[sglazer]

22 yr old female | Florida res | 1st time applying

Degree: Graduated May 2017 with a BS in Integrative Animal Biology

Applied: UF, Mississippi, LMU, Midwestern, Western, St.Georges, and Ross.
Interviewed: LMU, Midwestern, St.Georges, and Ross. [Western interview declined]
Rejected: UF, Waitlisted at Midwestern
Accepted: LMU, St.Georges, and Ross
Attending: LMU!!!

Overall GPA: 3.35
Science GPA: ~3.2 (honestly can't even remember)
Last 45 credits: 3.28

GRE (Q/V/W): 1st time - 152/157/4

Veterinary Experience: (Cannot remember exactly, but this is my rough guess)
Shadowing 2 Small Animal Veterinarians (500ish hours?)
Shadowing/Volunteering at a large Equine Hospital ~ 50 hours
VIDA Trip ~24 hrs (small animal + large animal)
Spay and Neuter Clinic Volunteer ~ 200 hours.
Currently a Vet Assistant at a small animal clinic that sees reptiles and birds occasionally. ( I work about 35 hours a week)

Research Experience:
Lab Assistant to a PhD candidate studying thermoregulation in amphibians infected with Ranavirus (sounds may more interesting then it actually was).

Animal Experience:
Horse Rescue Volunteer~ 1,000 hours
Horseback riding lessons~ 20 hours (aww I miss riding...)
Various Volunteer Experiences with the pre-vet club like Big Cat Rescue, Horse Farms, Humane society etc.

Extracurriculars / Etc:
Feeding America Tampa Bay Volunteer at their food pantry on occasion.
Event/Volunteer Coordinator for the Pre-Vet club (2015-2016)
Vice-President for the Pre-Vet Club (2016-2017)
Campus Coordinator for my VIDA trip.

LORs:
2 Small Animal Veterinarians that I shadowed
Board member of the horse rescue
PI presiding over the PhD students research that I worked closely with and took a couple classes with him.

Thoughts:
I did not think I was going to get in the first time and I was totally fine with that for a while. But I investigated the non-state schools like LMU, Midwestern etc and realized I really had a chance if I focused my efforts there. I had breath and a lot of experience, good LORs, and I interview really well. It was my grades/GRE that I knew where gonna kill me. Thats why I love these schools, they look past you not being a 4.0 student, which I have NEVER been (except for maybe elementary school). I'm so excited to start vet school, as with most of us, Its what I've wanted since I was little. I'm a good example of not having the most stellar numbers and was still able to get in, don't give up!

 

[apopken]

I loved stalking these threads and I am ecstatic to share my stats. My stats are on the weird end of things. I didn't set out to be a non-traditional student but I am honestly glad I am!!

26 year old female, Oklahoma resident, third time applicant

1st attempt:
Rejected: Iowa State University and Western.

2nd attempt:
Applied: Oklahoma State
Interviewed: Oklahoma State
Rejected: Never got called off the list :/
Waitlisted: Oklahoma State
Accepted: N/A

3rd attempt:
Applied: Oklahoma State
Interviewed: Oklahoma State
Rejected: N/A
Waitlisted: Oklahoma State
Accepted: Oklahoma State
Attending: Oklahoma State!!!!!


Overall GPA: 2.8
Science GPA: 3.0
Last 45 GPA: 3.2

Degree: BS Biomedical Sciences 2013

GRE (V/Q/W): 155/155/3 and then 157/153/4.5

Veterinary Experience:
60 hours between two equine clinics
5000+ hours at my current job working as a vet tech type thing. I work at a horse ranch directly under the resident veterinarian.
100 hours working with an equine veterinarian from the LA hospital I went to undergrad at.

Animal Experience:
3000+ hours caring for horses at current job at horse ranch.

Research:
100 hours. In undergrad I got course credit and employment at a small animal gastro lab.

Employment:
I've never been without a job since I was 16. Not sure how not having a job is going to impact my life while I'm in vet school!
I've worked at McDonald's, a bagel shop, and a call center. Don't do the last one, it was terrible.
I worked at my university's medical library through undergrad.
Most recently I've been working at a horse ranch. Duties are seasonal, foaling and breeding mares in the spring. Sales preparing breedstock the rest of the year. If anybody knows anything about horse than you know they are constantly trying to kill themselves, so there is plenty of veterinary work to help with.

Extracurricular/Community:
Volunteer work with horses and the handicapped
Volunteer work with high school football team

Awards:
Library Scholarship two years in a row
Native American Scholarship
"You should be on the radio" award from McDonalds
AP Credits and High School scholarships

eLORs:
Veterinarian I currently work with
Employer horse guy who really helped me grow
Advisor from undergrad
Researcher I from GI lab
Researcher from equine research lab

Personal Statement:
I wrote about my experience in the past couple years and how it has been so positive. I never set out to have a couple years between undergrad and vet school but I am so glad I did. I've seen so much and grown as a person and basically all of my experience confirmed to me what I want to do. I told of my foaling experience and highlighted the difficult few of the 1200+ foals I've seen be born. Specifically story of a foal treated with the Madigan foal squeeze and expressed the importance of continuing education. I also spoke about the veterinarians I have worked for and the tolls the profession has had on their lives.

So yeah, if you want something go for it. Even if your path ends up different from your design.

 

[VetMedVetMed]

Hey everyone! I was accepted to several schools and I will be starting vet school this fall. If anyone wants to know my stats or has questions or needs advice on applying, message me!

 

[Liquid_Phoenix]

Hey everyone! I was accepted to several schools and I will be starting vet school this fall. If anyone wants to know my stats or has questions or needs advice on applying, message me!

Which school are you going to?

 

[Osage07]

22 yr old female / Missouri resident / 1st time applying

Degree: Graduated Spring 2017 w/BS in Marine Biology

Applied: Mizzou, Kansas State, WSU, CSU, Ross
Interviewed: Mizzou, Ross
Rejected: Kansas State, WSU, CSU
Accepted: Mizzou, Ross
Attending: Mizzou

Overall GPA: 3.26
Last 45 GPA: 3.30
GRE: 295

Veterinary Experience (estimated):
Large animal ~ 300hrs
Equine ~ 100hrs
Small animals ~ 1000hrs
Exotics/pocket pets ~ 50hrs

Research Experience:
Histological research of the reproductive tract in salamanders (with a Professor) ~ 100hrs
Gene sequencing in elasmobranchs (under a MS student) ~ 20hrs
Stress hormone research in elasmobranchs (under a Professor's direction and supervision) ~ 25hrs

Animal Experience:
Sugar glider caretaker for the University ~ 150hrs
Elasmobranch geotagging ~ 40hrs
Various Volunteer Experiences

Extracurriculars/Etc:
Volunteer at New Orleans aquarium for Shark Week (3 days)
Volunteer for youth soccer league
Recorder for Alpha Chi Sigma (2016-2017)
Outreach Chair for Alpha Chi Sigma (2017)
Church knit/crochet volunteer (help teach basics) (2015-2017)

Employment:
Vet assistant (2013 ~ 2017) - work during college breaks and summers
Sugar glider caretaker (2015 - 2016) - for the University
Biology Office Student Worker (2016 - 2017)

eLORs:
Veterinarian I have worked for since high school
College professor and advisor
Church college mentor, knit/crochet leader, and volunteer leader

 

[VetMedVetMed]

Which school are you going to?

Virginia/Maryland!

 

[mary.swiger]

Well I always thought I would be too embarrassed to post my stats due to my low GRE score, but I made it into a program, and I am proud therefore I am going to post it.

23 year old female, Ohio resident, 1st time applicant

Degree: Graduated Spring 2016 with a Bachelors in Biology

Applied: Ohio State, Michigan State, Virginia Maryland, Ross University, Saint George's University, University College of Dublin of Veterinary Medicine, Midwestern
Interviewed: Ohio State, Ross, Saint George's, University College of Dublin
Rejected: Michigan State, Virginia Maryland
Waitlisted: Ohio State, Midwestern
Accepted: Ross, Saint George, University College of Dublin, Ohio State (off the waitlist)
Attending: Ohio State!!!!

Overall GPA: 3.56
Last 45 GPA: 3.75
Science GPA: 3.4
GRE: 296 (by far the most awful section of my application., but I got in and am not afraid to show my flaws- I took this test four times utilizing study materials- and did not get any better)

Veterinary Experience:
-Small animal: 3000
-Wildlife, pocket pet/ exotics- 2000

Research Experience:
-Food enrichment with captive turkey vultures (for my senior seminar & the internship I had during the summer)- 150 hours
-Introducing different types of enrichment pertaining to the five senses along with environmental into two enclosures filled with captive coyotes to improve their welfare and natural behaviors- 150 hours (done at my internship at the museum)

Animal Experience:
-Animal Caretaker/kennel assistant at a doggy daycare- 300 hours
-Wildlife rehabilitation intern at a nature center- 650 hours
-Wildlife resources intern at a museum- 500 hours
-Wildlife rehabilitation volunteer at a nature center- 400 hours
-Volunteer at the Caring Coral ( a horse facility)- 10 hours
-Volunteer at the Cleveland Zoo- 40 hours

Extracurriculars:
-Assistant philanthropy chair for Phi Mu Delta Iota (Spring 2015- Fall 2016)
-Member of Phi Mu Delta Iota (Fall 2013- Spring 2016)
-Academic Committee & Ritual Chair Committee- Spring 2014- Fall 2015
-Honors Program Member- (2013-2016)
-Honors Program Leadership Board- Historian- (Fall 2015- Spring 2016)
-Gamma Sigma Alpha Honor Society- Member- (2013-2016)
-Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society- Member (2013-2016)
-Pre-vet Club Secretary (Fall 2013-Spring 2013)
-Pre-Vet Club Member (Fall 2012- Spring 2016)
-Volunteer at my church for the nursery & greeter (2016-2017)
-Volunteer with office of community outreach- went on an environmental outreach program to South Carolina

Employment:
-Vet assistant/receptionist/kennel attendant- (2015-2017)
-Lab Assistant (2014-2015)
-Animal caretaker/ assistant at a doggy daycare- (2014)
-Server/cashier at Boston Market (2010-2014)

Elors:
-Veterinarian I worked with at a small animal/exotic practice
-Veterinarian I volunteered with/shadowed at a small animal/exotic practice
-Director of wildlife at the nature center I interned at
-Wildlife keeper at museum I interned at
-vet tech at small animal/exotic practice I worked at
-Science adviser/ professor from my university

Awards:
-Academic Scholarship for all four years of undergrad
-AP credits & high school scholarship
-Scholarship to attend the wildlife rehabilitation conference in Columbus

Personal Statement:
-I wrote about one particular case that triggered my interest in veterinary medicine. This case occurred at a veterinarian practice in which I was shadowing a exotic/small animal veterinarian. A dog had come in that had pale gums, was lethargic, and not acting herself. A series of tests were run- it was found that her abdomen had been fluid filled upon palpation, her white blood cells were low according to her bloodwork, and x rays showed a large mass in her abdomen. The only means to rescue this dog were to perform emergency surgery which is exactly what the doctor had intended to do. This case portrayed to me the challenges that come with the veterinarian field, and that sometimes there are numerous steps to be taken in order to get where you want to be. This veterinarian's strength and never ending determination through the case stated above inspired me to follow my dreams and work towards that goal. Helping animals and their owners is my passion. Working through problems to come up with solutions is one of my main interests. I am so excited to see what the future holds.

 

[thatonegirl__]

literally took me forever to add to this because I was too lazy...better late than never!
just so you know, my GRE scores were oh so average and in my opinion, quite terrible - but don't give up hope! it's always worthwhile to apply.

23 year old female, California resident, first time applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Oregon State Univ, Washington State Univ, Colorado State Univer, & University of Illinois
Interviewed: Invited to Illinois, but I turned it down
Rejected: Davis, Washington, Colorado
Waitlisted: N/A
Accepted: Oregon State University
Attending: Oregon State University

Overall GPA: 3.67
Science GPA: 3.45
Last 45 GPA: 3.8

Degree: Bachelor of Science - Zoology, Chemistry Minor

GRE (V/Q/W): 149 (42%), 154 (55%), 4.5

Veterinary Experience:
Veterinary Assistant at a Small Animal Hospital - 1000 hours

Animal Experience:
Volunteer Adoption Counselor - adopting out shelter pets - 800 hours
Wings of Rescue Volunteer - transporting shelter animals - 10 hours
Fox All Star Dog Rescue TV Taping Volunteer - handling adoptable dogs - 10 hours
Herpetology & Mammalogy Classes - 176 hours

Research:
Student Research in Costa Rica - 32 hours
Geoscience Intern - 200 hours

Employment:
Retail Sales Associate - 6000+ hours (5 years)

Extracurricular/Community Service:
Library Volunteer - 750 hours

Awards:
President's List - 2 semesters
Dean's List - 3 semesters
Volunteer Service Award
High School Awards

eLORs:
SA Veterinarian
Mammalogy Professor
Chemistry Professor/Mentor
Retail Manager

Personal Statement:
Talked about my cultural/family background, my volunteer experience working with shelter animals, my veterinary experience, and my research experience. I talked about how all of these experiences were woven together to help me become a successful vet student and future veterinarian.

 

[antonella1995]

I've delayed posting this, but I hope this provides hope to people with lower GPAs! I'm very grateful for how this application cycle turned out. Good luck to those applying in the future!

Female, 21, CA Resident, First Time Applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Washington State, Colorado State, Iowa State, Missouri, Ohio State, Tufts, Wisconsin, Royal Veterinary College, Glasgow

Rejected: UC Davis, Washington, Colorado, Missouri, Tufts, Wisconsin

Interviewed: Glasgow, Iowa, RVC, Ohio

Waitlisted: Iowa (withdrew)

Accepted: Glasgow, RVC, Ohio

Attending: RVC!

Degree: BS in Animal Science

Cumulative GPA: 3.39
Science GPA: 3.3
Last 45 GPA: 3.75
Last 30 GPA: 3.94
GRE: 54% Q, 68% V, 93% A

Vet experience: 500 hours, mostly small animal GP, minimal large animals and wildlife, small animal speciality

Animal Experience: 1000 hours, mostly small animal, some large animal

Research: 1 small research project with puppies

Extracurriculars: music, non-profit


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile

I've delayed posting this, but I hope this provides hope to people with lower GPAs! I'm very grateful for how this application cycle turned out. Good luck to those applying in the future!

Female, 21, CA Resident, First Time Applicant

Applied: UC Davis, Washington State, Colorado State, Iowa State, Missouri, Ohio State, Tufts, Wisconsin, Royal Veterinary College, Glasgow

Rejected: UC Davis, Washington, Colorado, Missouri, Tufts, Wisconsin

Interviewed: Glasgow, Iowa, RVC, Ohio

Waitlisted: Iowa (withdrew)

Accepted: Glasgow, RVC, Ohio

Attending: RVC!

Degree: BS in Animal Science

Cumulative GPA: 3.39
Science GPA: 3.3
Last 45 GPA: 3.75
Last 30 GPA: 3.94
GRE: 54% Q, 68% V, 93% A

Vet experience: 500 hours, mostly small animal GP, minimal large animals and wildlife, small animal speciality

Animal Experience: 1000 hours, mostly small animal, some large animal

Research: 1 small research project with puppies

Extracurriculars: music, non-profit


Sent from my iPhone using SDN mobile

Hey I'll be seeing you in the fall!