Arnie

What do you like about your course and why?

Veterinary medicine is such a multifaceted subject. It involves drawing on theoretical concepts, using practical skills and most of all communicating effectively, whether as part of a team or as a professional towards clients. Ultimately, that is why I love the course: it’s so versatile and the teaching reflects this. The combination of lecture-based content, practical sessions and communication workshops provide a well-rounded programme designed to develop great vets. 

The course isn’t all work; there are plenty of fun practicals and site visits which are more social and interactive in nature. Small group activities allow you to spend time with other students and collaborate on projects, which I think is really important.

What do you enjoy most about Surrey?

Surrey has a very friendly feel to it. When I visited the University on an Open Day, the students, staff and the campus created a warm atmosphere. The combination of modern buildings and greenery works great (especially during warm months!). The staff members have been very supportive, especially during my final year. There has been great communication and wellbeing support from personal tutors, alongside lecturers who clearly love their subjects. This makes learning more enjoyable and manageable.

"Seeing a cat go from a life-threatening condition to purring within a few hours is satisfying and fulfilling."

What are the highlights of your clinical placements?

As part of the vet course, students are required to complete both non-clinical and clinical work-based placements during the holidays. I fondly remember my lambing placement during Easter break – waking up and checking on the lambing pens to find newborn lambs bleating was an absolute joy. I also think about the night shifts I worked, being sleepy to suddenly called into action for real emergencies is hard work. However, with some cases, such as blocked cats, it is great to see the difference treatment can make. Seeing a cat go from a life-threatening condition to purring within a few hours is satisfying and fulfilling.

What do you want to do when you graduate?

The first thing I will do is have some time off! I look forward to moving back home and spending some quality time with friends and family. In terms of work, I'm interested in charity medicine so would love to pursue this. I aim to work in London as a new graduate vet and continue building on my skills until I have completed my graduate phase of work. Then I would love to travel, whilst working, in areas where people and animals may not have access to the best medical care.

What advice would you give to students thinking of studying your course?

For any prospective students, I would definitely say be ready for a challenging five years. Veterinary medicine is a course that requires commitment, whether that is through completing placements during holidays or putting in extra hours to study for numerous exams, so bear that in mind before applying. Don’t compare yourself to other students – every journey is unique and playing to your individual strengths will help you. In my experience, a more laid-back approach is the best to take. Remember we are going into a personal career as vets so value the time you spend with people and animals rather than overthinking the small theoretical details. Finally, keep your passion, veterinary medicine is such a rewarding degree and career which we are lucky to be a part of.

Find out more about our Veterinary Medicine and Science BVMSci