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

Third-Year at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine

Sara is a third-year at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine on a public/corporate track and obtaining her Masters of Public Health in addition to her DVM. In school, she is very involved as a Student Ambassador, Vice President of her class and is involved in various clubs and organizations. She is an Adel. A Malak Scholar with the USDA-FSIS with a passion for food safety and will be working for the USDA-FSIS upon graduation. Outside of school, you can find her exercising her wanderlust through hiking, traveling and spending time in the outdoors.

Latest posts by Sara (see all)

• 5 Things I Wish I Knew After Acceptance to Vet School - May 17, 2019
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