When I applied to vet school, I only got into AVC, so some people might be able to talk about this topic better than I. Honestly, I’m so happy I’m here. I love the program, the people, the opportunities, and for some reason I tolerate the arctic climate. If I had a choice in vet schools though, I don’t know what I would have done.
There are a lot of things to consider. In today’s economy, I would think price would have an effect on a decision. Tuition is a huge financial burden to consider, but less expensive things like location could come into play. How much is housing, fuel costs, groceries? I know here in PEI, gas is way more expensive than it is back home because of the difference in fuel prices between Canada and the US. Housing, however, is generally much cheaper than I ever paid back in Burlington.
Another consideration would be location. It might be a great vet school, but if it’s in a sketchy area, or a city when you’re a country person, or vice versa, that might be a hard choice to make. I’m sure vet school wouldn’t be as fun if I hated where I live. Also, maybe climate would be an issue. Probably don’t apply to AVC if you hate snow (we’re currently on a snow day, about a foot of snow later), and don’t choose Florida if you hate the heat. Climate is probably not the biggest decision anyway; us vet students don’t spend much time outdoors. Do you want to go to another country? Somewhere historical like Scotland or an adventure like New Zealand?
Probably the biggest consideration would be the program. Is it something you can see yourself enjoying and learning from? After all, that’s why we’re here. If it’s a school you know you’re going to love, the other factors might not matter in the end!