Jamila Richmond
"Doing my first surgery at the neutering clinic, and being surrounded and encouraged by my friends from my course while I did it, is my favourite memory. It was exactly what I wanted to come to vet school for."
Entry year
2018Choosing Surrey
I decided to go to vet school nearing the end of secondary school, but I decided on Surrey after visiting on an open day. I thought the School seemed very new, all the facilities were very modern and up to date, and the staff I spoke to seemed very progressive.
I chose Surrey mostly due to the final year rotations, it’s really important to me that I graduate feeling secure in my 'day one competencies'.
Rising to the challenge
I love being challenged and veterinary medicine is definitely a challenge! There are so many different aspects of the course and the job, and I love combining the practical parts of my studies with all the knowledge and theory.
I like the breadth of species that we study. Rather than just sticking to dogs, cats, horses and cows, we also look at intensive farming species like chickens and pigs as well as wildlife and fish, exotic pet species and zoo medicine. I think it’s great preparation for a number of different species we might encounter after vet school.
The staff are really knowledgeable and passionate about their chosen field and about teaching. Most, if not all of them, have previously or still currently work in the industry so they have relevant views and opinions to share.
Doing my first surgery at the neutering clinic, and being surrounded and encouraged by my friends from my course while I did it, is my favourite memory. It was exactly what I wanted to come to vet school for.
"I love combining the practical parts of my studies with all the knowledge and theory."
Lifelong friendships
When I joined the University, I lived on Manor Park which I loved. It has such a student village vibe to it, and it was such a friendly place to spend my first year. I lived in a mixed flat with students on loads of different courses and we got on really well with the whole building. I made so many lifelong friends whilst living there.
I really enjoyed living somewhere where everyone was a student. I enjoyed being among my peers and hearing them chat outside the window. Also, I lived right outside the vet school, so my commute was basically non-existent!
Looking forward
I think I’ve learnt a lot, both about my course and life in general. I have experienced loads of firsts while at uni, like living on my own and owning my first car, and it’s so interesting to see how far I’ve come. When I graduate, I would like to go into small animal charity practice, I think it would be really fun to travel and to do shelter medicine!
