Realities of the role

Understanding the Realities of the Veterinary Role

Understanding the realities of the role of a vet can be applied to multiple interview questions. Although becoming a veterinarian can be extremely rewarding, romanticising the role does not show that you understand that there are downsides to the job. It is important that you express that you know about the journey you’re in for.

Unpredictability

• The job is unpredictable; you never know what state a patient will be in when they walk through the door, and you need to be prepared to face anything that comes to you.
• The unpredictability can often cause vets to have to work longer in a day than originally planned, as animal health and welfare always come first.

Emotionally Demanding

• The job can be emotional and can take a toll on people.
• Breaking bad news is, unfortunately, a huge part of the role.

People Focused Role

• Communication with colleagues and owners is a large portion of the job.
• The veterinary role is often mistaken as a job that does not require much human interaction, whereas it definitely does.

Scientific Challenges

• Science is constantly updating as new research results are revealed.
• Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is very important throughout your entire veterinary career; you are constantly learning.
• Methods are constantly changing, so learning throughout your career will be vital.

Additional points

• Workload pressures

• Finance

(both expanded in further notes)