vet examining a horse

So You Want to Become a Vet?

Step into 'FarmVet Spotlights,' your go-to space for real stories and expert advice in livestock animal medicine. Dive into engaging interviews with vets who've walked the path, sharing experiences and offering valuable resources. Ready to explore and get inspired for your vet school journey? 

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Bethany Cummings and Eleanor Pressman as they share their experiences and insights into the renowned Veterinary Scientist Training Program (VSTP)!

Dr. Cummings, the director of the VSTP program, and Eleanor Pressman, a participant in the VSTP, discuss the program's impact on their careers, the exciting opportunities it offers for aspiring veterinary scientists, and the innovative research happening within the program.

Whether you're considering a career in veterinary medicine or are intrigued by the intersection of animal health and research, this interview provides a wealth of valuable information.


 

Haley takes us on a captivating ride, sharing her story from living in the New York suburbs to embarking on the West Coast adventure at UC Davis. Discover the moments that shaped her decision to become a vet and how she navigated the transition from urban landscapes to the expansive fields of veterinary education.


 

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Marissa Silva, a graduate of the School of Veterinary Medicine at University College Dublin, Ireland. Marissa grew up in Sonoma County, surrounded by sheep, goats, chickens, and horses, and spent her early years helping on her grandfather’s cattle ranch. She earned her degree in Animal Science from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in 2012, before heading to Ireland to pursue her veterinary education.

Now back in California, Dr. Silva is passionate about public education around the food supply, promoting a global 'One Health' approach, and supporting small-scale and backyard producers. Her diverse experiences offer a unique perspective on both international veterinary medicine and local agricultural communities.


 

Join us for an insightful conversation with Rick Tucker as we delve into his background in the army and discover how he funded his journey into veterinary medicine school. Rick shares his experiences traveling the world while working in livestock medicine and provides valuable insights into his overall journey.


 

Michelle shares her journey of becoming a veterinarian in the dairy industry, using TikTok and social media to offer a behind the scenes look at life on the farm. Discover what inspired her to pursue livestock care and how she channels her passion into educating others.


 

Gaining veterinary and animal experience through volunteer work is a key component of preparing a strong application at UC Davis. Most veterinary programs require a minimum of 180 hours, but in practice, competitive applicants often report between 2,500 and 3,000 hours at the time of application.