The road to becoming a veterinarian is a long one, and it is paved with hard work and perseverance. It takes more than a love for animals to succeed in the field; it also takes a love of science and a dedication to continuing education. The journey begins early. A strong science foundation from high school is very helpful, but the real work begins as an undergraduate.

Someone aspiring to attend veterinary school would likely declare a major in animal science or biology. There is a set of core classes that are required for veterinary school, and this set is mainly composed of biology and chemistry courses. It is an intense and rigorous path, and it's no easy accomplishment.

Applying to veterinary school is a process that begins the sophomore or junior year of undergraduate studies. Some people are able to finish their pre-veterinary coursework in three years; these people can apply to veterinary school their sophomore year for admission after their junior year, without a degree. Those who are accepted a year early like this are awarded a degree in Veterinary Sciences. Those who choose to finish their undergraduate degree begin the application process their junior year.

Applications are internet based and become available in May for admission for the following fall (16 months later!). These applications are due October 1st. Most schools require a supplemental application or behavioral interview as well. Many veterinary schools are moving toward behavioral interviews because of the great role personal skills play in the veterinary setting. Final decisions are not made until the following spring. For applicants, it is an agonizing winter; getting in to veterinary school is not easy. At the University of Minnesota's campus, over 1,000 people apply and only 90 applicants are accepted.

The admissions boards determine who is accepted based on several things. One is grade point average. Every school's criteria are different, but generally students with GPAs of 3.6 and above on a 4.0 scale are preferred. Also weighing in heavily on admissions are the letters of recommendation. Each applicant is required to submit 3 letters of recommendation and are encouraged to have at least one be from a veterinarian.  Also read with care is the applicants personal statement, an essay stating shy you want to become a veterinarian.

Veterinary experience is also looked upon highly during the admission process.  Although not required, the best applicants tend to have experience in small, large, and exotic medicine.  Many gain this experience as a receptionist, veterinary assistant, or kennel worker at a local vet clinic.  All positions in a vet clinic play a large role in the experience of the client and patient, and most clinics can't function without them.

Admitted applicants are given a few months to decide which school they'd like to attend if they were admitted to more than one.  Decisions need to be in by April 15th.  From there the summer is full of open houses and orientations.  School starts in the fall with an immediate heavy load of courses including microbiology, physiological chemistry, and other intense courses.  The program takes 4 long years, and at the completion, students are equipped with the knowledge needed to be a veterinarian.

For more info on applying to veterinary school please visit the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges.