U-Hauls: The Sign of Change

This past week has been one heck of a whirlwind. Immediately following my week long, soul searching, limit pushing, tan making, relaxing trip in California I was quickly brought back to reality when I realized I have 65 days left until orientation and less than a week left with my significant other.

When the topic of relationships is brought up as one is approaching veterinary school or is in veterinary school, you get a lot of “well…” followed by a sigh. To some, it is almost taboo to dare speak of such things when you have so much more to focus on. The truth is, relationships are difficult and if your significant other isn’t following you on your journey, long distance relationships can be even more difficult.

As my boyfriend of three years accepted a wonderful job right out of college several states away, I was and still am extremely excited for him. It has been a great opportunity and I have always known that when I left for veterinary school we would be taking our relationship the long-distance route. So, what difference would it make being a five-and-a-half-hour drive versus a ten-and-a-half-hour drive? Unfortunately, one does not understand what that will be like until you see that U-Haul truck pulling out of the driveway.

I wish I could tell you that it will be easy, but I know better. For those of you who are preparing to be in the same long-distance boat as me, before you jump on board, take the time to have the conversations about how you will make it work. For many of us, we will be going nearly 6 months between our short visits. Learn to Skype, appreciate the little things and make time for each other now while you can because you will be craving it more when it’s your turn to see that truck pulling away.

I know it may be sometimes controversial to speak about relationships in a veterinary setting but they are such a vital part of who we are. Many of us going into veterinary school are in relationships, regardless if they will be close or far, married or newly formed, and it should be something that everyone should make time for no matter the crazy stressful lives you may be leading.

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Sara

VS1 at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine

Sara grew up in the rural town of Wilmington, Ohio on her family farm. She spent her childhood involved in 4-H, showing animals of all types from horses and pigs to dogs and poultry. After 11 years of competition in dog obedience, agility, quarter horse showing and livestock judging she attended the University of Findlay and completed her undergraduate degree in Animal Science and Biology in 2016. After spending a year at Ohio State University taking graduate courses, Sara will begin classes at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine in the fall. In addition to obtaining her DVM, she plans to complete her Masters of Public Health. Sara hopes to go into public service focusing on veterinary public health upon graduating.

Latest posts by Sara (see all)

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