Current High School and Middle School Students: Future Buckeye Veterinarians
Preparing for veterinary school as a high school or middle school student requires hard work, dedication, and a love for animals. By focusing on your academics, gaining experience working with a wide variety of animals, developing strong communication skills, researching veterinary schools, and staying motivated, you can achieve your dream of becoming a veterinarian.
It’s never too early to begin preparing for your future career as a veterinarian. Getting into vet school can be competitive and the choices you make in middle and high school can prepare you for veterinary school.
Recommendations for prospective students
Preparing for veterinary school can be an exciting and rewarding journey for high school and middle school students who are passionate about animals and interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. While the road to veterinary school can be long and challenging, with the right mindset and preparation, it is possible to achieve your goals and become a successful veterinarian.
Becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine involves a program of academic preparation, usually eight years after high school. Applicants typically complete three to four years of undergraduate coursework and the majority earn a bachelor's degree. The professional school is four years of education in basic sciences and clinical procedures. It is important to know that the foundation for veterinary medicine is science. Make sure you take as many science courses as you can, however, we also look for students who are well-rounded with various interests.
Your guidance counselor will be able to assist you in arranging your schedule in high school. Your course selection will also be dependent upon the college/university you wish to attend to complete your pre-vet courses.
Here is a list of courses you should consider:
- 4 years mathematics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus
- 4 years laboratory sciences like biology, physics and chemistry
- 4 years English composition
Shadow a local veterinarian or volunteer at a local clinic. Keep a journal that includes hours you worked, types of animals you worked with, contact information of the veterinarians you worked with, and unique experiences.
Get involved in activities that will help develop your interpersonal, leadership and communication skills. Veterinary medicine is not only a science and animal profession, but is also a people profession as well. Keep a log that lists all your extracurricular activities, awards, honors or any special accomplishments.
It is also important to think about where you want to go to college to complete your pre-veterinary courses and your major. More information about Ohio State University undergraduate programs.
Buckeye Vet Camp for High School Students
The Buckeye Vet Camp will take place June 8-13, 2025 on the Ohio State University Campus. Cost for camp will be $850.00. To be considered for this year's camp, all applicants must complete the application and pay a $30.00 non-refundable application fee. Applications will close on April 15. Those chosen to participate will be notified by April 30.
Veterinary Prep Programs
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine offers different programs throughout the year to help prepare middle, high school and college students for veterinary school.
Buckeye Vet for a Day for High School and Middle School Students
Have you ever wondered what it is like to be a veterinarian? Join the veterinary students at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine to learn the ins and outs of this rewarding profession. Students will get the opportunity to tour the Veterinary Medical Center, learn what it takes to get into veterinary college, and best of all, learn hands on skills that veterinarians use every day, including basic surgical techniques, anatomy, clinical pathology, and radiology!
More information to come.
OTS Veterinary Explorer's Program for High School Students
Omega Tau Sigma (the veterinary fraternity) Veterinary Explorer's Program is for Columbus-area high school students interested in the field of veterinary medicine to join our program. Students will have the unique opportunity to learn about a career in veterinary medicine from professionals at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
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