What I Wish I Knew Before Vet School Interviews

It’s the time of the year when veterinary schools are sending out their invitations to interview candidates. Candidates all over the world are anxiously waiting for that email, phone call, or letter. I’ll never forget the night that I received my first interview letter. I was so excited and felt like getting into vet school could finally happen! As I sit here, only five months from graduation, I started reflecting on my interview experience. I want to share some tips on what I wish I knew before vet school interviews because trust me; I’ve been in your shoes. 

Arrive Early 

    • This should go unsaid, but do not be late for your interview day! I suggest arriving 30-45 minutes early. Campuses of veterinary schools can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the school. And often, the meeting room where the interview day starts can be hard to find as well. Do not start your day running across campus frantically, trying to find the correct place you’re supposed to be. 

Dress Appropriately 

    • Business attire comes in many different forms, especially for women. But I’m not going to spend a lot of time on this point because I have a separate blog for this topic. However, please do not wear jeans, stained clothing, or attire that shows off your midriff or cleavage. I also suggest that everyone wears comfortable shoes. Usually, you take a campus tour during your interview day, so make sure you are equipped with shoes that are suitable for walking. And please… iron your clothes!

Interviews are not as scary as they sound

    • Veterinary school interviews! It even sounds scary! But I am here to tell you that I had so much fun during my interviews. The faculty and staff at all universities genuinely do make you feel welcomed. The interview process varies with each university, but the interviewers want you to have a good experience and to feel comfortable. It can feel intimidating when you have one to three interviewers sitting across from you at a table, asking you questions, but take a breath and take your time. If you need time to think about the question, or for them to repeat the question, ask! A massive portion of a veterinary school interview is showing them how well you can communicate. 

Get to know other candidates and faculty

    • Take this time to meet other candidates and faculty members. I still remember meeting some of my classmates on my interview day. Most of my interview days started with everyone sitting in a common room, often at round tables. Because everyone is so nervous, a lot of people sit there quietly until someone starts up a conversation. Be the one to start the conversation! I promise you; it’ll get rid of a lot of the nerves. However, be aware that these conversations can quickly leave you feeling imposter syndrome, which brings me to my next point.

Stop comparing yourself to the other candidates

    • Once candidates start talking and getting to know each other, you’ll quickly find yourself comparing yourself to others. You’ll begin to think that you don’t belong, they invited you on accident, that you have none of the experiences like other students have, etc. Stop doing that! Yes, some will have better skills, grades, degrees, etc. than you, but do not let that get in your head. You also have something unique to offer!

Have Fun!

    • I know I can’t convince you that interviews are not scary, but I beg you to take advantage of this day. You’ll be nervous, but by implementing the tips above, it’ll significantly reduce the nerves that you’ll feel. There are only 13% of people in the US that have a graduate-level degree. You are already close to becoming a part of that 13% because you were granted an interview. Be thankful for this opportunity. Regardless of the outcome, an interview is a chance to learn and grow. 

If you have any questions about interviews, do not hesitate to email me at drtrustenmoore@gmail.com. 

Good luck!