Trinity University San Antonio pre-vet question

katwkittens
Mon, 24 Sep 2007 14:55:49 +0000

http://www.aavmc.org/students_admissions/vet_schools.htm
http://www.aavmc.org/

The above two links would be starting places for those interested in vet science and pre-vet curriculum. Oldest daughter used the pre-requisites stated in the various vet school programs to help narrow her choices for undergrad. Some vet schools require some specific animal science classes in order to apply, animal nutrition, animal reproduction. Some require 400+ hours of animal experience under the direct supervision of a vet and/or researcher.

Also be aware that there are different types of animal science degrees. Some (NC State) offer concentrations in animal science- pre-vet AND animal science-industry ( and both are VERY,VERY different). Some offer only animal science which is predominately animal science industry and those wanting the pre-vet just take more chem and physics. The concentration is not on vet med but on the industry of poultry, beef, dairy and so-on, however it is not always clearly designated as such.

The sizes of the 2 schools you have mentioned are larger than an LAC however within the animal science departments it is much more close-knit. Daughter’s undergrad was 28,000+ and yet her department was rather small in numbers by comparison and very, very close and yet because it is a large research university with an attached vet school she had a plethora of classes to pick from, especially animal-oriented ones. So if one was interested in being a large or exotic animal vet the classes are offered for a more intense concentration. Same holds true for equine, large and small ruminants, swine, fisheries, and companion animals. Also the research opportunities were numerous and the variety of hands-on animal experience in a vet setting were extensive.

Vet school admissions are tough, really tough. The classes are just the beginning of the process. My suggestion would be to acquaint oneself with the possible vet schools (there are not many) and work your way backwards. If she can find a good fit for undergrad, that would as Opie said will help tremendously.

DD has also learned vets are employed in many capacities other than private practice. She has worked with an Army captain who does extensive work in Africa, a vet/horse trainer who breeds race horses, and a vet turned researcher for animal diseases. US Dept of Ag also hires vets as does our local state and county and many of the thouroughbred farms between Ocala FL, GA, TN, the Carolina’s and Ky.

Good luck to your daughter!!

Kat