So far this summer I’ve been looking around and meeting different people within varying aspects of the profession, and one question always comes up: “So, what do you want to do with your degree?” At this point, the answer is always the same (some variation of not knowing or having no clue, etc). However, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with some people who are working in the government sector (contracting with the department of defense, FDA, NIH, mostly), and it’s really got me thinking more seriously about what to do with myself after I attain my DVM. I’ve been thinking more seriously about becoming boarded in lab animal medicine.
I was able to talk to a few people who are doing a lab animal residency, and it sounds like a good marriage between research and clinical medicine. My biggest issue is that I pretty much want to do everything, but I recognize that I can’t do everything at the same time and that while “winging it” has worked out in my favor thus far, it may be a better idea to have some sort of plan in place.
It was good to learn some of the ins and outs of what is involved in a lab animal residency specifically, and in a residency in general, regardless of specialty. Honestly, I keep thinking about the fact that I’m not getting any younger (not that I’m particularly that old), and I want to finally just go enjoy my life. Everyone keeps telling me that it will be worth it in the end, which I believe, but that raises the question of whernthe proverbial “end” is.
At the same time though, I don’t want to overlook a potentially good opportunity just because I’ve already been in school for what seems like ages. Still, this last two years in vet school have given me a lot to think about as far as a career direction goes.
To those like me who have been a little indecisive or want to do everything, I say keep an open mind, be friendly, and try (key word…. TRY) not to go too long just winging it!
