Becoming a first-year veterinary student is both exciting and challenging. The first months of veterinary school tend to be the most difficult, and it’s all about adjusting to a new environment. Although the transition from pre-veterinary school to veterinary school comes with challenges, it also presents unique learning opportunities.
Here are my tips to prepare for your first year of veterinary school:
#1: Make sure to enjoy the summer by spending time with family and friends, doing whatever makes you happy, and trying not to stress too much. You’ll have plenty of time for stress in veterinary school.
#2: Connect with your future classmates on social media and get to know them a little.
#3: Make a budget for groceries, utilities, and school-related expenses. You can buy a budget planner to keep track of everything.
#4: During your free time, sign up for free webinars to familiarize yourself with trending topics in veterinary medicine.
#5: Start finding ways to organize and prioritize your tasks. You can start by using a calendar app or printed planner. Also, download study apps for iPads or tablets, such as Notability and Quizlet, and familiarize yourself with them before the school year begins.
#6: Don’t wait to start looking for a place to live. Ask other veterinary students which locations they recommend for housing, shopping, or eating.
#7: Practice methods of relaxing and reducing anxiety. You can try deep breathing, meditation, journalism, and yoga. Find what works best for you.
#8: Lastly, pack items that will keep you motivated, such as family pictures, motivational frames, letters of acceptance, or support. These will give you the fuel to keep going.
Read more by Maria.
