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veterinary nurse personal statement

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Vet school personal statement: how to write + examples.

veterinary nurse personal statement

Reviewed by:

Jonathan Preminger

Former Admissions Committee Member, Hofstra-Northwell School of Medicine

Reviewed: 4/26/24

Writing your personal statement for vet school is no easy feat, but we’ve got you covered! Follow along for expert tips and successful examples of vet school personal statements.

When it comes to your vet school application, one of the main requirements is your personal statement, which can hold a lot of weight. This essay is your first opportunity to demonstrate your personality and why you would be an excellent candidate beyond your grades. 

For some, an excellent personal statement can even help make up for low grades or test scores, so it’s important to get it right.

Luckily, we’ve compiled our best tips and successful vet school personal statement examples to help you through the process. We’ll review tips from our experts on how to write a stand-out essay, examine each of our essay samples, and explain what made them successful. 

If you’re currently applying for vet school and are looking for assistance on any part of the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our experienced admissions advisors at any time. We know how hard it is to get into vet school ; we can help!

Let’s get started!

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

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How to Write a Personal Statement for Vet School

Here are some of our top tips when writing a personal statement for vet school.

Write Now, Edit Later

In most writing scenarios, getting started is the hardest part. The best way to relieve that stress is to start writing and keep going. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it can be longer or shorter than the word count initially. The purpose of this method is to pull out all the information and review it later on.

Try writing out your entire story, front to back, of how you grew up and developed an interest in vet school . Make sure to include two to three relevant work experiences. 

Once you have nothing left to say, look at what you’ve written and highlight the best, most relevant parts. Then, you can begin editing backward and pull out your best ideas. 

Consider Your Unique Perspective

Your story, no matter what it is, has value. Vet schools are competitive, and your admissions committee will see hundreds of applications. Finding a way to frame your unique perspective in your personal statement can help to create a memorable essay that will leave a lasting impression on readers. 

Consider your hometown, culture, family, passions, etc. Some students compare their passion for learning a challenging skill like playing the piano to the commitment and dedication required for vet school. 

There are no wrong answers here, as long as you can connect what makes you unique to your work experiences and why you would be an excellent vet school candidate. 

Revise, Revise, Revise!

It may sound obvious, but there has never been a more important time to revise an essay repeatedly. Remember, vet school is competitive. Something as small as a spelling or grammatical error could make the difference between getting in or not. 

Run your work by your teachers, family, and friends for revisions - not rewrites! Every word should sound like something you would authentically say. It would help if you had others help you edit, but ensure the paper still sounds like you. 

Vet School Personal Statement Examples

Here are three excellent examples of vet school personal statements. Below you’ll find veterinary school personal statement samples and our explanations of why the essay was successful. 

1. Example From the Veterinary School at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

“Living with my single mother, a nurse who often works over 60 hours a week to support my family, has taught me the value of hard work. From her, I have learned to be passionate and meticulous in all the work that I do. She instilled in me the need to constantly stay busy and involved.  I thrive in an environment that challenges me and requires quick thinking. Due to the influence of my mother, I have developed a strong perseverance and sense of determination. My parents’ divorce kept me in a changing environment growing up–I had to adapt to a variety of living situations with little finances to support us.  From this, I acquired the skills of being thrifty and knowing how to make sacrifices. The characteristics I have developed through my home environment growing up made me into an ideal candidate for vet school and a future veterinarian – a person who is passionate and dedicated to their work, but who also can cope with a fast-paced environment and problematic situations.  For the past seven years, I have applied these qualities to volunteering and caring for animals, developing my interest in veterinary medicine further. When I was thirteen, I volunteered at Birmingham Zoo in Alabama.  A large part of my role there included guest education about the animals on exhibit, usually using artifacts such as animal hides and skulls to explain various topics.  I worked mainly in the lorikeet exhibit, where I stayed in the exhibit with the birds while guests walked through. My jobs were to watch over the interactions between the birds and the guests, as well as to educate the guests about the birds.  From working there, I realized that I really liked getting to educate people about animals, a large portion of the job of a veterinarian. The most influential experience I’ve had on my decision to become a veterinarian was working at Elk Grove Pet Clinic.  I have been a kennel attendant there since 2007, where my job is to take care of all the in-house pets, care for the boarding animals, assist in appointments, give medications, and help with the cleaning of the clinic.  I have observed numerous surgeries, including routine spay and neuter surgeries, but also more unusual surgeries such as a 6 pound tumor removal from a dog and a surgery on the clinic’s ferret to remove tumors from his pancreas.  I have handled and cared for not only cats and dogs, but also macaws, cockatoos, snakes, ferrets, chinchillas, and tortoises.  Through working there, I had the opportunity to observe the duties of a private practice vet and see how they normally handle appointments, surgeries, and client communication in difficult situations. I have observed the doctor discussing with clients care options and the possibility of euthanasia, as well as assisted in euthanasia.  I have also assisted during emergencies, such as immediate care for a dog hit by a car. Through working at Elk Grove Pet Clinic, I have seen the responsibilities of a vet in caring for an animal in appointments and emergencies, as well as the importance of educating and discussing options with the pet owners.  I spent my junior year of college interning at the Champaign County Humane Society. I did an Animal Care Internship in the fall and a Medical/Lab Internship in the spring. The Medical/Lab Internship reaffirmed my decision of wanting to go to veterinary school.  While interning, I was able to gain experience performing physical exams, drawing blood, giving treatments and medications, restraining animals, microchipping animals, trimming nails, and learning what signs to look for in a sick animal.  I learned how to make and read an ear cytology slide, as well as how to tell if an animal has a bacterial ear infection or ear mites. The animals that I worked with were mainly cats and dogs, but also included guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, hamsters, chinchillas, and bearded dragons.  I was able to compare the duties of a shelter veterinarian and a private practice veterinarian, which varied due to the financial constraints of a shelter and the fact that the animals in the shelter do not have owners for the veterinarian to consult with.  Through my internships, I learned how much I enjoy doing physical exams, finding out what is wrong with an animal, and learning how to treat it. As a veterinarian, I would be able to apply all of these experiences by working in a science that is continually advancing, while contributing to the field through research and public education.  The skills that I have developed and the knowledge I have gained through working with animals have strengthened my interest in veterinary medicine.  Overall, my experiences with animals, my profound passion for science, and the characteristics I have developed through my home environment have shaped me into an excellent candidate for veterinary school.” 

Why this essay works:

In this example, the student begins by connecting their passion for vet school to her childhood experiences. The applicant then lists their valuable experience to demonstrate continued investment in their chosen career path.

They conclude by summarizing their writing - mentioning their passions for animals, science, and experience, all as reasons to accept them into the program. 

This essay is strong overall; however, it lacks a bit of reading flow. While it’s good to remind the admissions committee of your achievements and how they helped you grow, keep in mind that they’ve already seen these accomplishments on your CV. 

Your personal statement should be focused on telling your story rather than simply listing your achievements. Still, this student wrote a successful essay. 

2. Example from the University College Dublin’s Veterinary Medicine Program (Graduate)  

“From an early age, it was clear to me that my career path would involve working with animals in a clinical context, as I have always had a passion for science, animal health, and welfare.  My first exposure to the veterinary clinical environment was through a high school program, which provided me with the insight into how rewarding and fulfilling it was to be able to use scientific knowledge in order to diagnose, treat, prevent and ideally cure diseases.  This has led me to study Biochemistry for my undergraduate degree, as I wanted to have a solid basis for a comprehensive understanding of the metabolism and function of animals in health and disease. During my postgraduate studies, I had conducted a one-year research project working with Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agents for African Trypanosomiasis, an infectious disease of wild and domestic animals and humans of sub-Saharan Africa.  As African Trypanosomiasis is a zoonotic disease, this research experience had introduced me to the ‘One Health’ transdisciplinary approach and increased my awareness of the intricate relationship between human and animal health.  I have developed a strong appreciation on the importance of both veterinarians and human health professionals working together in order to detect, prevent and control disease outbreaks, as well as the key role that veterinarians play in the bigger picture of society. My latest internship at a companion animal veterinary clinic has taught me the importance of high-quality animal care and optimal health maintenance by providing routine treatments and the appropriate vaccinations.  I thoroughly enjoyed working in a veterinary clinical setting, from communicating with the clients to determine the animal’s medical history, aiding during the clinical examinations, using the various laboratory equipment for diagnostics, to the hands-on component of the job such as dental cleaning and assisting during surgical procedures. I want to become a veterinarian because I am dedicated to improving public health goals and outcomes by assessing, investigating and managing animal health and zoonotic disease risks.  I will enjoy collaborating with other veterinarians and various health professionals, such as epidemiologists and pathologists, to understand and identify new and emerging diseases and control them, reducing the time they circulate in the animal population.  Working as a public health veterinarian would also involve protecting the welfare of animals by ensuring that the standards of animal-keeping are met.  This would ensure that the animals, especially livestock, would be healthy, and diseases that could have repercussions on human health will be reduced as much as possible.  In this regard, I would also like to foster better collaboration with human health professionals so that future interdisciplinary public health issues can be tackled more efficiently. I believe that my educational background and experience have prepared me well for a veterinary medicine program and I would be honoured to be able to attend the University College Dublin’s Veterinary Medicine (Graduate Entry) program to pursue my career as a veterinarian.”

This applicant displays a passion for veterinary medicine through their unique initiatives and career experiences. Something unique that this student focuses on in their personal statement is how they intend to improve the world of veterinary medicine. 

This is an excellent perspective to present in your personal statement! Consider the specific shortcomings you’ve noticed in veterinary medicine and how you intend to improve upon those areas. It’s not essential if you don’t have any ideas, but it looks great on an application. 

3. Example from the University of Scranton  

“Ever since I can remember I have always had a passion for animals. Their beauty and ability to comfort me are only outmatched by their honesty, loyalty and faithfulness. My path to realizing that my true calling lies in veterinary medicine began when I took a life biology course in high school.  In this course I realized my intrigue with animals went far beyond their cute and cuddly parts. I was interested in how they worked from the inside and realized that I should be their doctor. Ever since that first high school class I have focused my educational path in pursuit of becoming a veterinarian.  I have volunteered at animal shelters, worked in clinics, shadowed veterinarians and participated in basic science research. Now that I stand at the doorstep of college graduation I cannot imagine my life if I do not attend veterinary school.  I shadowed my veterinarian Dr. Henry Nebzydoski and was amazed by his precision, immense knowledge and skill. I learned that in medicine many things can go wrong in a situation, but there are also many ways to solve problems.  I loved being able to meet clients whose love for their pets was apparent. That love between an animal and its owner drew me further into the love of veterinary medicine. This shared compassion and love for animals helped me relate to clients.  Volunteering at local shelters, I gained more perspective on a career as a veterinarian. I learned how to care for abused and homeless animals and to let go of the animals I had grown to love when it was in their best interest. While shadowing Dr. Michelle Falzone, I observed that each veterinary practice was different.  Doctors bring their own personality to make each experience unique; it is never just a routine doctor's visit. I believe that I, too, will bring individuality to the field of veterinary medicine that will benefit my clients. I obtained a job at an emergency animal hospital where the number of patients and the variety of problems presented was vastly different from daytime practices.  Veterinarians have to work under time constraints and I learned about the hard choices a family often makes. At first, I thought the patient-doctor bond was absent in these cases, but the doctors make sure the connection is still present by spending time talking to clients and personally calling them to disclose test results.  I learn a great deal everyday at the emergency clinic, such as filling medications, diagnosing symptoms and caring for patients and animals in difficult situations. Seeing many prognoses, I learned that there is hope for even the worst one and that a doctor's optimism is important.  Most importantly this experience taught me the value of communication skills in veterinary medicine. I have to explain procedures and calm down many patients in order to be able to understand the problems involved with their pets. I will never forget the first time I watched a pet euthanized.  Distraught, I thought for a time I would refuse to perform euthanasia in my practice. As I took in more of the doctor-patient interactions, I realized this would not be fair. The bond between a veterinarian and a pet owner becomes very important and is needed throughout the animal's life.  The doctor, who has been there throughout the good and difficult times, needs to be there for the owner and the pet when the only choice left is to end the suffering of the animal. For more than a year I have been interning at The Commonwealth Medical College.  I am conducting a research study with Dr. John Arnott on the expression of connective tissue growth factor in osteoblasts. This experience provided me with new insights into the importance of the basic sciences and I have developed great respect for their study and place in clinical medicine.  More than anything scientific research has taught me humility and that success requires tenacity. This experience has helped me grow as an individual and to find that I am capable of doing things I never dreamed.  With my help, we are one step closer to figuring out the steps in the cellular pathway to bone growth and thus are closer to potentially identifying molecules that will enhance bone growth. Veterinary medicine is a love of the science used to care and treat animals.  This coincides with the compassion for and communication with pet owners. As these animals are unable to communicate as a human might, veterinarians become dependent on the owner's ability to detect and describe problems. This challenge continues to fascinate me and I look forward to devoting my life to the field of veterinary science.  Becoming a veterinarian began as a dream many years ago for me, and is now close to a reality. My dream has always been a simple one - to pursue a love I have harbored since a youth, carrying it from a fascination and love of animals, to creating a successful veterinary practice. I am ready for the next step to fulfill this dream.”

Why this essay works:  

This essay is the most successful example we’ve shown due to its readability. Notice how the applicant includes descriptive language when they mention their previous experiences. 

They present their personal statement as a cohesive, flowing story from when they first became interested in veterinary medicine to now. It’s simple, compelling, honest, and - perhaps most importantly - easy to read. 

These examples of personal statements for vet school should guide you in the right direction when creating yours.

FAQs: Personal Statement for Vet School

Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about personal statements for vet school.

1. What Should A Vet School Personal Statement Include?

Your vet school personal statement should describe how your passion for veterinary medicine began, and two to three experiences you’ve had that demonstrate how you’ve improved upon that passion. It should flow nicely, be easy to read, and conclude by reinstating your passion for the profession and how you intend to improve the field. 

2. How Long Is A Personal Statement For Vet School?

Personal statements for vet school are typically one page or 3,000 words long. However, schools will often give you specific parameters for your essay. Pay close attention to the prompts given to you throughout your application process. 

3. How Do You End a Vet School Personal Statement?

There are several ways to end a vet school personal statement successfully. You should always reinstate your passion for veterinary medicine and end on a high note. Suppose you have a specific way you intend to improve veterinary medicine. In that case, the end of your personal statement is an excellent place to state your intentions. 

4. What Makes a Good Personal Statement for Vet School?

A good veterinary medicine personal statement must include your passion for the field, showcases unique experiences and qualities, exhibits a strong connection to animals, and utilizes effective storytelling and structure. 

It must also exhibit strong and concise writing and attention to detail. It should authentically convey your motivation and leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee.

5. How Important Are Personal Statements for Veterinary Schools?

A personal statement for veterinary school is extremely important. It provides applicants a platform to showcase their individuality, express their motivation, and demonstrate their suitability for the veterinary profession. 

Personal statements offer insights into applicants' personal and professional qualities that may not be apparent from other application components. 

Final Thoughts

Your vet school personal statement should be thoughtful, heartfelt, and informative. You should ensure that your story is easy to read by using descriptive language and lining up the highlights of your work experience in order. 

Consider your unique perspective. Remember, these programs are competitive. Putting your unique twist on your essay will help you stand out from the pack and remain in the minds of the admissions committee. 

Good luck! 

veterinary nurse personal statement

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MediTutor

Veterinary Personal Statement

Learn how to write a bespoke and polished Veterinary Personal Statement today and make your application truly stand out. Reviewed by vets – every word counts.

Writing the personal statement is a daunting task and let’s face it – we’re not all J.K. Rowling. Where do you start? Does it sound too cheesy? Are there enough buzzwords? Luckily, we’ve got some amazing support options to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement.

veterinary nurse personal statement

What does a reviewer look for?

There are two overarching themes that our reviewers look for in all personal statements – qualities and role.

veterinary nurse personal statement

Do you understand the qualities a successful veterinary surgeon needs and fundamentally, how have you demonstrated these attributes? Your understanding of this is drawn out from how you tackle personal and professional obstacles, teamwork, leadership, and communication in both academic and non-academic settings.

Do you understand the role of a veterinary surgeon and how they work in a multidisciplinary team? Your understanding of this can be explored through your personal involvement with animals, work experience and volunteering.

veterinary nurse personal statement

How can we improve your Personal Statement?

veterinary nurse personal statement

Motivation And Commitment

Our tutors assess why you want to study veterinary medicine. We evaluate your vocational and extracurricular experiences alongside personal development. Our team look for a broad range of examples from your work experience that highlights your understanding of the role of the vet, the veterinary profession and the sciences underpinning this vocation.

veterinary nurse personal statement

Attitude To Study

Our tutors assess your personal statement for academic interest but also for traits that demonstrate important skills such as resilience, work-life balance, teamwork, and communication. Our skilled reviewers will ensure you avoid listing experiences and assist you in prioritising which experiences to reflect on – quality is more important than quantity.

veterinary nurse personal statement

Cambridge Essentials

If you are applying to Cambridge to study Veterinary Medicine, our senior Cambridge tutors will focus closely on the use of scientific terminologies and the technical contents of your personal statement. Our reviewers look to see how well you articulate your interest in the academic aspects of veterinary medicine - above and beyond the EPQ.

veterinary nurse personal statement

Reducing Word Count

Most students who send us their personal statements are over the word and character limit! The 4,000-word limit can be really hard to adhere to – your style of writing should be focused with argument and direction. This is where a trained eye can prioritise your reflective encounters and remove unnecessary content.

veterinary nurse personal statement

Integration and Flow

Whilst it’s important to have a checklist and a high level of organisation, our tutors ensure your personal statement is engaging. It’s vital for you to have a strong introduction and conclusion. A personal statement should flow logically and excite the reader whilst simultaneously adopting a formal academic writing style.

veterinary nurse personal statement

Spelling and Grammar

Is all of you're spelling & grammar, correct? Just as you noticed our grammatical mistake above - make sure you thoroughly check your statement before the final submission. One of the most common faults we see is the incorrect use of commas – we run all of our personal statements through Grammarly.

How does it work?

MT HW 1

1. Let us know what you need

As soon as you place your order, we will match you with a specialist academic tutor who will guide you through your personal statement review. We’ll collect some essential pieces of information such as which vet schools you’re applying to, and whether you are a school leaver, gap year, mature, graduate or international applicant. Whether you’re applying to Cambridge or to H&K, we have veterinary reviewers from across the country to help you.

MT HW 2

2. Meet your tutor

We will ask for a copy of your personal statement and establish your key ideas, concerns, and expectations. Our veterinary tutors know exactly where students fall down and make mistakes in their personal statements. We’ve done all the hard work of comparing and creating the best strategies using a wide array of resources so that you don’t have to.

MT HW 3

3. Prompt, perfect and polished

Your personal statement will be fully reviewed and polished within three working days. We’ll check it for spelling, punctuation, grammar, and plagiarism as well as adjusting it for style, content and clarity - all without losing sight of your talent and personality. Our tutors provide extensive written feedback alongside line-by-line in-text suggestions.

MT HW 4

4. Review and repeat

After reading our feedback, you can consider making the changes we’ve suggested - remember this is *your* personal statement. and you will be talking about it at your interview. Feel free to contact us at any time for further advice; you can request another veterinary personal statement check either by the same tutor or a second reviewer!

Our Success Rate

veterinary nurse personal statement

Students enrolled on our Oxbridge Admissions Programmes are 300% more likely to get an Oxbridge offer.

Students enrolled on our veterinary admissions programmes are 180% more likely to get a veterinary offer..

veterinary nurse personal statement

Order now – it's quick and easy!

With our simple online ordering process and hundreds of qualified veterinary tutors, we’ll help you to develop a great personal statement.

  • 1 Personal Statement review
  • Reviewed by a senior veterinary tutor
  • Personalised feedback within 72 hours
  • Detailed intra-text editing
  • Detailed summary of improvements

Two Reviews

  • 2 Personal Statement reviews
  • Personalised feedback within 96 hours

Need your personal statement reviewed within 24 hours or want a vet surgeon to review your personal statement?

Personal statement faqs.

Got some questions about the Personal Statement (PS) Review? You might just find the answer here. If not, you can always reach out to us and we’ll be happy to help

The PS forms an important part of the applicant process – it is a chance to get noticed for the unique talents and experiences you have. In summary – the PS is a short, reflective piece of writing that you submit as part of your UCAS application to universities.

Vet schools generally assess the same unified themes – note that in Cambridge there is a much stronger emphasis on academics and basic sciences. The standard of your written communication and a structured format is important.

Common things to include

  • A strong introduction
  • Why you want to study veterinary medicine
  • Supra-Curricular: e.g., volunteering, research, books, online courses
  • Extra-Curricular: e.g., sports, teamwork, leadership
  • Ability to reflect on your work experience
  • A strong conclusion

Start writing your personal statement early, ideally the summer before Year 13 if you’re a school leaver. The earlier you get started, the more time you allow yourself to write and rewrite the statement until it’s perfect. Unfortunately, leaving things too late tends to lead to a state of panic and stress – get in touch if you need any inspiration!

Absolutely! We run an express service on demand, please contact us so we can guarantee a review of your PS within this timeframe.

Absolutely! We run this service on demand, please contact us so we can organise a PS review with a veterinary surgeon.

We are happy to accommodate a reviewer from a specific vet school, however, all our reviewers are equally talented and received multiple offers.

MediTutor has been running since 2020 when COVID, we started with a small team of 3 tutors and have now rapidly grown to a team of over 100+ tutors. MediTutor ran the UK’s first veterinary MMI course in 2021.

Some say “The hardest part is getting in.” Many of our current vet tutors may have been offered a place at their dream university, but rejected by another one that was on their shortlist – it doesn’t make them any less of a great future vet. There will be some things you can control, and some that you can’t – so try to stand out in those that you can. MediTutor has listed the six crucial elements to a successful application.

We recommend students set 6 A4 pages aside and write the following headings at the top of each page. Set out an action plan of how you will satisfy the requirements.

1. Grades/Exam results – the minimum entry requirements will suffice 2. NSAA (Cambridge)/Pre-interview questionnaire 3. Extracurricular Activities and Work Experience 4. UCAS Reference 5. Personal Statement 6. Interview Performance

Here at MediTutor, our expert tutors are here to support you with these core aspects of your application.

Please don’t use clichés, every single admissions cycle without fail, our reviewers see the same cliché phrases such as “I have always wanted to be a vet” – this is just far too commonly stated (even if it’s true) – creativity and individuality are essential to a successful personal statement.

Most personal statements are reviewed within 3 working days, if not sooner. For Cambridge personal statements, these can take up to 5 working days.

Prior to the review of your personal statement, our reviewers will establish what your main ideas, concerns and expectations are. We will focus on these alongside our 10-point checklist.

We typically recommend two reviews though this does vary from student to student and there is no one answer that fits all! You can purchase more reviews at any time or request a second reviewer should you wish at any time.

Sorry, no! The ‘key’ is that this is personal and if we were to write it for you, it detracts away from your natural flair. Additionally, as current, and future vets, it’s against the ethical code stipulated by the RCVS.

Absolutely – we have a team of veterinary nurses who we work with and can support you with statements, questionnaires and interview preparation.

Sure, we would recommend two reviews of your personal statement at the minimum. Once so we can focus on the veterinary contents, and the second, to ensure it meets the English standard requirements needed by vet schools.

The veterinary personal statement is 47 lines long or 4000 characters – the same for all courses on UCAS.

Yes – we do. We will prioritise a veterinary tutor who is also a graduate student to provide you with bespoke advice including how to reflect on your undergraduate degree. Our tutors can provide ongoing mentorships – more than just a PS review!

The team at MediTutor are very proud of our reviews, check us out on Google Reviews and Trustpilot if you don’t believe us ☺

MediTutor has an impressive success rate. In 2021-22, over 90% of our veterinary applicants have achieved at least one place at vet school.

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The short answer – no. The long answer – you have very little to lose, and a lot to gain by having an expert opinion. Our reviewers have been incredibly helpful for a large number of applicants who now even work for us – that’s because we know exactly where people fall down and make mistakes in the personal statement. Importantly, we’ve done all the hard work of comparing and creating the best strategies using a wide array of resources so that you don’t have to. Just so you know, all our content is continuously peer-reviewed by vets and veterinary students – our resources and checklists are updated every year to reflect the most up-to-date university requirements.

We offer a free personal statement review through our widening access programme, please click here for more details. Did you know that 20% of students on the MMI course come through the widening access route!

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We have partnered with Klarna, we accept payments over the course of 3-months, interest free.

We have partnered with Stripe, we accept payments over the course of between 3-months and 12-months, interest free. Please get in touch so we can arrange a package that suits you.

Yes, we accept currencies from across the world and have worked with students in over 10+ countries to date. We have partnered with UnionPay (UPI) and Alipay as our payment gateway for clients across Asia – please contact us for a bespoke invoice.

If you’ve checked through all of our FAQs and you can’t find the answer to your question, you can get in touch with us with any general enquiries about all things via [email protected] or give us a call on 0800 689 0051 .

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veterinary nurse personal statement

July 11, 2024

Vet School Personal Statement Examples to Guide You

veterinary nurse personal statement

You’ve done the work you needed to to prepare yourself for vet school. The academic work. The volunteer work. The clinical work. And now you must answer the VMCAS (Veterinary Medical College Application Service) essay prompt “Why do you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine?”  You have just 3,000 characters with which to do so.  

Many vet school candidates find writing scientific lab reports or manuscripts easier than writing a narrative vet school personal statement. And there are so many suggestions of what you should and should not do when writing a personal statement that it’s easy to get overwhelmed.  

To help you better understand what a strong vet school personal statement looks like, in this post, we present the following example, which was written by an Accepted client who ultimately received several offers of acceptance.  

Titans. In Greek mythology, the Titans were the pre-Olympians, the elder gods. They ruled the Earth and had enormous amounts of strength. In my childhood, I had a titan too, a canine. At the age of nine my family adopted a healthy Leonberger puppy that we named Titan. Little did we know at the time that his name would not only represent his size but also his unwavering strength. At the age of one, he was diagnosed with a multitude of chronic health issues and was not expected to make it to two years of age. However, as a true titan, he proved everyone wrong. I watched his bravery and will to live as the veterinarians went above and beyond to help Titan with numerous treatment plans all while showing great kindness and empathy. This helped me realize I wanted to be a veterinarian to help other animals and foster strong relations between clients and veterinarians; Titan was my defining moment.

Growing up, I lacked self-confidence and avoided talking to people I did not know. With Titan as my constant companion, I had a plethora of strangers ask me questions about him, thus fostering my interpersonal communication skills. Being able to confidently answer questions about Titan, his breed, and his health helped to prepare me for similar conversations I currently have in my position as a veterinary assistant. I am able to handle both easy and difficult conversations with pet owners by being an engaged listener, an empathetic pet owner, and having confidence in my knowledge of animals and in myself. I also recognize that not all owners have the courage or understanding to ask the questions needed to best support their animals. With this in mind, one goal I have as a future veterinarian is to help bridge the gap of knowledge that exists between animal owners and those in the veterinary industry by providing more education for owners about their animals.

 Another aspect that I will bring to the veterinary profession is inclusivity. My older brother has special needs and I have seen the progress he has made through interactions with our dogs and cats. He has gained confidence, become more social, and is able to more freely express himself. My long-term goal to contribute to the field of veterinary medicine is to create a veterinary practice that employs people with disabilities. My future practice would offer a valuable and engaging place of employment by helping decrease the stigma surrounding the capabilities of those with special needs, and foster meaningful relationships between people and animals.

The connection and experiences I had with Titan started me on my path to becoming a veterinarian. I have persevered through every opposition I have faced, learning from my mistakes and successes while remaining dedicated to my goal of becoming a veterinarian. By being a strong communicator and working well with others I have shown my ability to lead by example. All of these attributes and more are why I will be a successful veterinarian. 

This vet school personal statement has three key strengths: 

#1: The initial narrative about the applicant’s childhood pet, Titan, coupled with the writer’s ability to be vulnerable (e.g., stating that they lacked self-confidence), allows an adcom reader to form an image of the candidate and want to learn more. Furthermore, the connection between the candidate and their dog clearly lays the foundation for their interest in the field of veterinary medicine.  

#2: This applicant not only refers to their position as a veterinary assistant but also notes very specific skills they’ve cultivated in that role, such as being an engaged listener and their ability to have difficult conversations. This demonstrates that the applicant is actively invested in the process of learning as much as possible while working.  

#3: The applicant does a great job of highlighting their vision of their future as a practitioner, both holistically (i.e., wanting to be a good educator) and specifically (i.e., wanting to employ staff with special needs). This lets the adcom know that the applicant is thinking not just about the point of matriculation but also about being a provider who will contribute to the growth and development of the field.  

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As the former assistant dean of student affairs and career development at the William Beaumont School of Medicine, Dr. Valerie Wherley worked directly with the dean of the School of Medicine, the associate dean of student affairs, the associate dean of clinical curriculum, and the assistant dean of admissions, as well as with Year 4 students on both residency application reviews/critiques and mock interview preparation. Work with Valerie! Schedule a free consultation today!

Related Resources:

  • Highlighting Your Leadership Experience in Your Application
  • Four Tips for Displaying Teamwork in Your Application Essays
  • How Personal Is Too Personal In Your Application Essays?

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  • Veterinary Personal Statement Examples For University

Step into the University of veterinary medicine as you delve into two exceptional personal statements that showcase the unwavering passion, exceptional skills, and profound dedication of aspiring veterinarians. Use our Veterinary personal statement examples to write your application for the Vet course to make a successful university application. 

Veterinary Personal Statement

I grow up on the farm. Since a young age, my passion for horses has ignited a deep connection with these magnificent animals. Growing up, I immersed myself in the world of equine care, constantly learning and developing my knowledge of their well-being. It was through this journey that I discovered my fervour for trimming and caring for horse hooves in their natural state, favouring the preservation of their inherent grace over conventional shoeing methods. This hands-on experience not only allowed me to witness the profound impact of proper hoof care but also instilled in me an unwavering desire to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

While my love for horses, I have always been fascinated by the world of exotic pets. My commitment to understanding diverse animal care requirements led me to take on the responsibility of caring for Josh, a beautiful chameleon. Delving into the unique intricacies of reptiles and tropical animal care hypnotised me, as I discovered the delicate balance required to provide them with a prosperous atmosphere. This experience further solidified my determination to specialize in exotic animal Vet medicine and contribute to the well-being of these remarkable pieces.

For my best practical experience, I actively aspired to opportunities to expand my knowledge beyond horses and reptiles. Working at an animal shelter exposed me to the day-to-day care of various animals, primarily dogs and cats. However, I used every chance to assist in the care of other pieces, including Josh the chameleon. This experience not only let me develop my skills in treating different species but also taught me the importance of empathy and kindness in providing quality Veterinary care.

I wanted to further broaden my horizons, I pursued employment at a city zoo. This opportunity proved to be transformative, as it provided me with adequate exposure to an extensive range of exotic animals. Working alongside the zoo’s best veterinarians, I absorbed knowledge from experts while sharpening my clinical skills. It was during this time that I was fortunate enough to form a mentorship with Dr Martin Bellford, a seasoned veterinarian. His guidance and support have been very valuable, enabling my ambitions and providing me with opportunities to excel in veterinary medicine.

Academically, my love for biology has been my driver in my educational journey. Biology labs, in particular, have provided a platform for me to explore the intricacies of life and deepen my understanding of animal physiology. Though my empathy for animals sometimes makes dissection uncomfortable, I appreciate the opportunity to gain a thorough understanding of animal anatomy and its practical application in veterinary medicine.

Looking to the future, I have ambitious career goals. As an exotic animal specialist, I aspire to work with unique and wild species, employing my knowledge and skills to safeguard their well-being. Furthermore, I am passionate about wildlife preservation and hope to contribute to this cause through active involvement with organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund. By combining my veterinary expertise with a dedication to conservation, I aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of animals, both domestic and wild.

My journey in veterinary medicine has been shaped by a lifelong passion for horses and an unwavering dedication to animal care. The diverse experiences I have gained, from working with horses to caring for exotic pets and assisting at a city zoo, have solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in veterinary medicine. With a strong academic foundation in biology and a burning desire to make a difference, I am eager to embark on this transformative journey and contribute to the well-being of animals in need.

Veterinary Medicine Personal Statement Example

Ever since I can remember, my fascination with animals has been my driver in shaping my school achievements and personal goals. The intricate biology of animals, their diverse forms, and their profound impact on the world have fascinated me, igniting a passion that has led me to seek a career in veterinary medicine. With an interest in genetics and its application to animal health, I am eager to contribute my knowledge and skills, while improving the welfare of our dear “buddies”.

As I delved more in-depth into biology, my focus on genetics strengthened. Studying the complexity of evolution and selective breeding, I became aware of the challenges that certain species face due to genetic defects. Ventricular septal defects in bulldogs demonstrate the importance of genetic predispositions and the impact they have on health. It is my earnest wish to utilise this knowledge to diagnose, treat, and mitigate such conditions, ensuring good health for animals.

Throughout my academic journey, I have always displayed an affinity for the sciences, particularly biology. I have demonstrated a strong grasp of fundamental principles and an ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real scenarios. Moreover, my overall performance in the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) demonstrates a positive mindset and a commitment to hard work across all mentioned disciplines.

To complement my academic work, I have eagerly aspired to relevant work experiences in veterinary medicine. Assisting with surgeries and consultations, I have seen the dedication and skill required to provide humane care to animals in need. These experiences have extended beyond the borders of my home country, allowing me to observe veterinary practices in diverse environments. Additionally, my work with horse husbandry and breeding, as well as my involvement with racehorses and farming animals, has upgraded my knowledge to the next level.

Beyond my academic and professional goals, I actively engage in extracurricular activities that have honed my attributes and fostered a well-rounded character. As a dedicated sportsman and Silver Sports Ambassador, I have been privileged to promote the values of the Olympics and inspire others to embrace an active lifestyle. My participation in rugby for Sheppey RFC and my school team has instilled in me the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.

Driven by a real desire to make a positive result, I have enthusiastically taken part in charity work. Regularly participating in fundraising runs and embarking on an expedition to Tanzania, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of collective action. These experiences have taught me empathy and my commitment to managing animal welfare issues with my heart and dedication.

My dedication to my studies is further demonstrated by my participation in a Vetsim course, where I developed a particular interest in avian veterinary surgery. Immersed in a simulated veterinary environment, I honed my technical skills and deepened my understanding of avian health and treatment. This experience solidified my conviction to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, as it allowed me to witness the profound impact that veterinary care can have on the lives of animals and their owners.

My empathetic nature, excellent communication skills, and strong affinity for animal welfare issues have shaped me into a candidate ready to make a meaningful contribution to the field of veterinary medicine. Through the learning of genetics, a dedication to lifelong learning, and an unwavering dedication to the welfare of animals, I am confident in my ability to excel in the rigorous academic program of veterinary medicine. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my knowledge and skills to animal health, ultimately making a positive impact.

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Veterinary personal statement: The Introduction

Top tips for writing your veterinary personal statement introduction., write the introduction last.

It might seem logical to start writing your Veterinary Personal Statement from the beginning, brainstorming introduction starters. However, the introduction is arguably the most difficult paragraph to write. Many students fixate on writing a “killer opening line”, if you overthink your introduction, you many end up procrastinating from tackling the rest of your Veterinary Personal Statement. If you find that you are struggling with crafting an introduction, then it might be better to start writing the other sections (such as work experience or talking about your personal achievements) first.

Table of Contents

Make it Personal.

When describing your motivation for studying Veterinary think about what you have learnt about being a vet and then why you want to be a vet. The introduction should be based around your personal motivation to study Veterinary Medicine, so avoid making your reasons generic.

Grip the reader immediately.

The introduction of your Veterinary Personal Statement should be the first thing to grasp the reader’s attention, make it snappy and captivating. This is the difference between your application grabbing someone’s attention and it being like all the others they have read. Use your judgement to assess whether your opening lines are authentic and personal to you.

Show an understanding of Veterinary as a degree and profession.

It is important to demonstrate that you understand what a career in Veterinary Medicine involves. Do not fall into the trap of describing your “love for cuddling animals.” This phrase will make the reader question if you are aware of what the job actually involves (it actually involves quite little of this). There are difficult, messy, and upsetting parts to the job.  

The Veterinary Schools Council Website provides excellent information about careers and admissions into Vet School

veterinary nurse personal statement

Common Pitfalls in a Veterinary Personal Statement Introduction

Using clichés..

Avoid sounding cliché and using phrases such as ‘I love animals and science.’ This is a hackneyed phrase that will not make you stand out. The word “Passion” croups up lots of times in Veterinary Personal Statements. Passion is an emotion… and it does not fit well describing your chosen career as an emotive feeling. Lastly, avoid using the word ‘dream’ and saying, ‘veterinary medicine is my dream’. This may be the case, but if you mention this it doesn’t come across as very professional, and can sound like you’re unaware of the realities of the profession. 

Using unnatural language

Using flowery and verbose language will not impress the admissions tutor. By using unnatural language, it immediately looks like you have used a thesaurus to change up your words. A common example of this is using the word ‘relish’ to describe how much you like doing something.  You may want to use synonyms to avoid repeating words. Make sure if that you are still using appropriate concise words in their correct context.

Using Sob Stories

You can use personal anecdotes to help explain your reasoning for wanting to study Veterinary Medicine. Be careful not to make these sound too cliché. Steer away from phrases such as ‘When I was 5 I had a pet hamster that became sick and its treatment at the vets is what inspired me to become one’.

Being Generic

Mentioning that you like science can be another common pitfall in Veterinary Personal Statement introductions. Veterinary medicine combines science and a love of working with animals’ hand in hand. Try to be original when explaining why you like the science aspect of the job. What specifically do you enjoy? How have you had experience of veterinary science in your schooling? e.g. dissections in class or learning about the heart can relate a lot to veterinary anatomy. 

N.B. – Do not let the fear of sounding too generic put you off from mentioning animals at all in your introduction. If you are studying to be a vet, you should like animals and you should talk about them in your Veterinary Personal Statement. Try to individually explain why you like them, what is it about working with them that you enjoy? Why is studying veterinary medicine a good choice for you given that you like animals? 

A Veterinary Personal Statement Introduction Idea

Consider beginning your Veterinary Personal Statement describing a particular ‘ology’ that you have enjoyed learning about or researching. Think about how you can use this to explain why you want to be a vet. For example, you may describe that you have an  interest in cardiology, because you’ve seen a cardio case on your Veterinary work experience. Did this inspire you to look into the future of veterinary cardiology? 

Check out our other Veterinary Personal Statement guides and feel free to leave any comments or questions below.

Frequently Asked Question

→what should a personal statement introduction include.

When describing your motivation for studying Veterinary think about what you have learnt about being a vet and then why you want to be a vet. The introduction should be based around your personal motivation to study Veterinary Medicine.

→What is a personal statement for vet school?

As part of your UCAS application you must submit a Personal Statement. Your personal statement is an opportunity to demonstrate to the course providers why you want to study veterinary and why you’d make a brilliant student.

→Should I start my personal statement with a quote?

It is advised to avoid using quotes in your personal statement. Not only do quotes take up valuable space but they can be perceived as being cliché making your statement less credible.

→How long should my introduction be in my veterinary personal statement?

The length of your introduction may vary depending on the specific requirements of the programme you are applying for. However, most veterinary personal statement introductions are typically around 100-200 words in length.

→How can I make my introduction stand out in my veterinary personal statement?

To make your introduction stand out in your veterinary personal statement, you should use clear and concise language to convey your message. You should also focus on your personal experiences and qualities that make you a strong candidate for veterinary medicine. Using a creative hook or anecdote can also help to grab the reader’s attention and make your introduction more memorable.

→Why is the introduction of a veterinary personal statement important?

The introduction of a veterinary personal statement is important because it sets the tone for the rest of the statement and grabs the attention of the reader. It is the first opportunity for applicants to make a strong impression and demonstrate their motivation and passion for veterinary medicine.

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Idiopathic issues, virmp®  personal statement: dos and don'ts.

Cathy Barnette

If you’re planning to pursue an internship or residency after vet school, you have probably already started working on your VIRMP ® Application Packet. This packet, which is sent to each program to which you apply, contains your application form, transcripts, CV, letters of reference, and your personal statement. (1) 

The personal statement acts as a cover letter for your application packet. Its goal is to provide a better picture of you as an applicant.

Your personal statement should answer three major questions:

  • What do you expect from an internship/residency program?
  • What are your long-term career goals?
  • What can you contribute to the institution?

Personal Statement Dos and Don’ts

  • Do discuss what you will bring to the program. This is your opportunity to show what makes you unique! Without restating what’s covered in your CV, talk about significant professional or life experiences that have prepared you for this position. 
  • Don’t get too creative or casual. Although your personal statement should reveal something about you as a person, this is not the time for a haiku. Your personal statement should be written in a formal style, like a business letter. Although contractions, ellipses, and casual phrasing may be appropriate for a blog post, they should be avoided in your personal statement. 
  • Do keep it concise. Although your personal statement can be up to two pages in length, try to be concise and limit it to one page. Stick to three paragraphs: one to describe your goals, one to describe your skills/experience, and one to describe how you can help the practice or institution. (2)
  • Don’t describe yourself in vague platitudes. Be specific and give examples. Don’t tell the committee that you are hard-working; show them that characteristic by discussing a particular achievement, discussing your previous experience in a grueling program, or relaying an anecdote of a time that you overcame an obstacle. 
  • Do proofread your personal statement carefully. After you have corrected all the errors that you can find, email it to several friends or family members for editing. Others are more likely to catch your mistakes. 
  • Don’t procrastinate. I’ve spent the last four years as a freelance writer, so I understand what it’s like to have writer’s block! For me, the best way to start an intimidating project is to sit down at my laptop and start typing something (anything!) related to the topic. Whether it’s a rough outline or a few poorly-constructed opening sentences, getting something on the page always helps. You can always go back and change what you’ve written, but the hardest part is getting started! 
  • Application Packets. Veterinary Internship and Matching Residency Program. 
  • Suggestions for Application to Internships and Residencies. Kansas State University. 

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Veterinary Science Personal Statement Examples

veterinary nurse personal statement

What is a veterinary medicine personal statement?

Your veterinary medicine personal statement is an opportunity to sell yourself to admissions tutors, and tell them why you would make a great candidate on their course.

Your statement should include how you meet all the entry requirements for a veterinary science degree and demands of the course. For example, your love of animals, patience, empathy, and your academic and practical skills.

How do I write a veterinary medicine personal statement?

Most veterinary medicine candidates open their personal statement with why they want to become a vet. Motivations for wanting to study any course at university are always important.

We recommend you write a series a notes about your skills, experience, hobbies, extracurricular activities, career plans and anything else that is relevant to your application.

When you have put an initial draft together, proofread it and leave yourself plenty of time to amend your statement.

Ask family, friends and tutors to read your veterinary medicine personal statement, and invite them to make suggestions, comments and any other feedback to help you improve it.

What should I include in my veterinary medicine personal statement?

  • Your passion for animals should be obvious from the outset. Think about what made you want to pursue a career in veterinary medicine in the first place - was it a childhood experience or something you read or encountered? Were you inspired by a family member or friend who is already a qualified vet?
  • Talk about any work experience (paid or unpaid) or voluntary roles that have helped you gain experience in the veterinary science field. This will help demonstrate your skills, commitment and ambition to the university admissions tutors.
  • If you're applying to Oxbridge, your personal statement will need to be exemplary. Veterinary medicine is a highly competitive course, so you have to show that you are a talented, dedicated and enthusiastic student that meets all the academic and vocational requirements.

For more help and advice on what to write in your veterinary medicine personal statement, please see:

  • Personal Statement Editing Services
  • Personal Statement Tips From A Teacher
  • Analysis Of A Personal Statement
  • The 15th January UCAS Deadline: 4 Ways To Avoid Missing It
  • Personal Statement FAQs
  • Personal Statement Timeline
  • 10 Top Personal Statement Writing Tips
  • What To Do If You Miss The 15th January UCAS Deadline.

What can I do with a veterinary medicine degree?

There are many career options available to those wanting to study veterinary medicine, including:

  • Animal nutritionist
  • Veterinary surgeon
  • Animal physiotherapist

However, there are other job roles where your veterinary science degree could be useful, such as:

  • Animal technician
  • Veterinary nurse
  • Environmental consultant
  • Nature conservation officer.

For more information about careers with a veterianary science degree, please see Prospects and The Times .

What are the best UK universities for veterinary medicine?

Currently the best UK universities for veterinary medicine are:

1.  
2.  
3.  
4.  
5.  
6.  
7.  
8.  

For more information about UK university rankings for veterinary science, please see The Complete University Guide and The Guardian .

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StandOut CV

Veterinary Nurse CV example

Andrew Fennell photo

You became a veterinary nurse so that you could make a difference to the lives of animals and their owners every day.

But that sentiment alone is not enough to land you the job, you need to create an engaging CV that carefully highlights your training, experience and skills.

If you need a little help writing your application, check out our top tips below, complete with a veterinary nurse CV example.

CV templates 

Veterinary Nurse CV example

Veterinary Nurse CV 1

This is a good example of a Veterinary Nurse CV which contains all of the information that a hiring manager will need to be impressed, and presents it in a well- structured, easy-to-read format.

Take some time to study and understand this CV, and refer to it throughout the writing of your own CV for best results.

CV builder

Build your CV now 

Veterinary Nurse CV format and structure

The format and structure of your CV is important because it will determine how easy it is for recruiters and employers to read your CV.

If they can find the information they need quickly, they’ll be happy; but if they struggle, your application could be overlooked.

A simple and logical structure will always create a better reading experience than a complex structure, and with a few simple formatting tricks, you’ll be good to go.

How to write a CV

Tips for formatting your Veterinary Nurse CV

  • Length: If you want to hold the reader’s attention and ensure your CV isn’t yawn-worthy, it’s best to stick to two sides of A4 or less. This is more than enough room to highlight why you’re a good match for the role – anything more can quickly become tedious!
  • Readability : To help busy recruiters scan through your CV, make sure your section headings stand out – bold or coloured text works well. Additionally, try to use bullet points wherever you can, as they’re far easier to skim through than huge paragraphs. Lastly, don’t be afraid of white space on your CV – a little breathing space is great for readability.
  • Design & format: While it’s important that your CV design looks good, it also needs to be functional (which means easy for recruiters to read) Keep the design simple to achieve a good balance between looking good and reading well.
  • Photos: Headshot photos aren’t required in a CV by most employers, but some creative and artistic industries like to see them. If you decide to include one, make sure you look smart and professional in the picture.

Quick tip: Creating a professional CV style can be difficult and time-consuming when using Microsoft Word or Google Docs. To create a winning CV quickly, try our quick-and-easy CV Builder and use one of their eye-catching professional CV templates.

CV formatting tips

CV structure

As you write your CV , divide and sub-head into the following sections:

  • Name and contact details – Always start with these, so employers know exactly how to get in touch with you.
  • CV profile – Add a short summary of your relevant experience, skills and achievements, which highlights your suitability.
  • Core skills section – A 2-3 columned list of your key skills.
  • Work experience – A detailed list of any relevant work experience, whether paid or voluntary.
  • Education – An overview of your academic background and any training you may have completed.
  • Hobbies and interests – A brief overview of your hobbies and interests, if they’re relevant (optional).

Now you understand the basic layout of a CV, here’s what you should include in each section of yours.

Contact Details

Contact details

Begin by sharing your contact details, so it’s easy for employers to give you a call. Keep to the basics, such as:

  • Mobile number
  • Email address – It should sound professional, with no slang or nicknames. Make a new one for your job applications if necessary.
  • Location – Simply share your vague location, for example ‘Manchester’, rather than a full address.
  • LinkedIn profile or portfolio URL – Remember to update them before you send your application.

Veterinary Nurse CV Profile

Make a strong first impression with recruiters by starting your CV with an impactful profile (or personal statement for junior applicants).

This short introduction paragraph should summarise your skills, experience, and knowledge, highlighting your suitability for the job.

It should be compelling enough to encourage recruiters to read through the rest of your CV.

CV profile

How to write a good CV profile:

  • Make it short and sharp: Recruiters are busy, so to ensure your profile is actually read, it’s best to keep it short and snappy. 3-5 punchy lines makes for the perfect profile.
  • Tailor it: Before writing your CV, make sure to do some research. Figure out exactly what your desired employers are looking for and make sure that you are making those requirements prominent in your CV profile, and throughout.
  • Don’t add an objective: Avoid discussing your career goals in your CV profile – if you think they’re necessary, briefly mention them in your cover letter instead.
  • Avoid generic phrases: Cheesy clichès and generic phrases won’t impress recruiters, who read the same statements several times per day. Impress them with your skill-set, experience and accomplishments instead!

Example CV profile for Veterinary Nurse

What to include in your veterinary nurse cv profile.

  • Experience overview: Start with a brief summary of your relevant experience so far. How many years experience do you have? What type of companies have you worked for? What industries/sectors have you worked in? What are your specialisms?
  • Targeted skills: Make your most relevant Veterinary Nurse key skills clear in your profile. These should be tailored to the specific role you’re applying for – so make sure to check the job description first, and aim to match their requirements as closely as you can.
  • Important qualifications: If the jobs you are applying to require candidates to have certain qualifications, then you must add them in your profile to ensure they are seen by hiring managers.

Quick tip: If you are finding it difficult to write an attention-grabbing CV profile, choose from hundreds of pre-written profiles across all industries, and add one to your CV with one click in our quick-and-easy CV Builder . All profiles are written by recruitment experts and easily tailored to suit your unique skillset.

Core skills section

Add a core skills section below your profile to draw attention to your most applicable skills and make them stand out to readers.

This should consist of 2-3 columns of bullet points that emphasise your relevant skills.

Before creating this section, review the job description and compile a list of any specific skills, specializations, or knowledge needed. Incorporate these findings into your list to portray yourself as the ideal candidate for the position.

Core skills section CV

Important skills for your Veterinary Nurse CV

Animal Care – Providing comprehensive care for animals, including monitoring health, administering medications, and managing nutrition.

Surgical Assistance – Assisting veterinarians during surgical procedures, including preparing the surgical site, monitoring anaesthesia, and maintaining sterile conditions.

Diagnostic Imaging – Operating and interpreting diagnostic imaging equipment, such as X-rays and ultrasound, to aid in diagnosing and treating animal conditions.

Laboratory Techniques – Utilising knowledge of laboratory procedures, including sample collection, analysis, and interpretation of results to assist in diagnosing and monitoring animal health.

Anaesthesia Management – Utilising knowledge of anaesthesia protocols, monitoring vital signs during anaesthesia, and ensuring the safe recovery of animals.

Patient Monitoring – Performing comprehensive patient monitoring, including vital signs assessment, pain management, and post-operative care.

Emergency Care – Providing immediate care and assistance during veterinary emergencies, such as trauma, cardiac arrest, or respiratory distress.

Client Communication – Educating and counselling pet owners on animal care, treatment plans, and preventive healthcare.

Records Management – Maintaining accurate and organised documentation of patient information, treatments, and procedures in electronic or paper medical records.

Quick tip: Our quick-and-easy CV Builder has thousands of in-demand skills for all industries and professions, that can be added to your CV in seconds – This will save you time and ensure you get noticed by recruiters.

Work experience

Recruiters will be itching to know more about your relevant experience by now.

Kick-start this section with your most recent (or current) position, and work your way backwards through your history.

You can include voluntary and freelance work, too – as long as you’re honest about the nature of the work.

Work experience

Structuring each job

Whilst writing your CV, it’s essential to look at it from the eyes of a recruiter.

If they’re met with giant blocks of text which are impossible to navigate, they might get frustrated and skip onto the next CV.

Instead, make use of the 3-step structure shown below, to give them a pleasant reading experience.

Role descriptions

Start with a solid introduction to your role as a whole, in order to build some context.

Explain the nature of the organisation you worked for, the size of the team you were part of, who you reported to and what the overarching purpose of your job was.

Key responsibilities

Next, write up a punchy list of your daily duties and responsibilities, using bullet points.

Wherever you can, point out how you put your hard skills and knowledge to use – especially skills which are applicable to your target role.

Key achievements

Lastly, add impact by highlight 1-3 key achievements  that you made within the role.

Struggling to think of an achievement? If it had a positive impact on your company, it counts.

For example, you might increased company profits, improved processes, or something simpler, such as going above and beyond to solve a customer’s problem.

Sample job description for Veterinary Nurse CV

Oversee various nursing duties, share best practice with colleagues, and support the development of graduates, for a global company committed to making a positive impact on people and pets through preventive, general, specialty, and emergency veterinary care and diagnostics.

Key Responsibilities

  • Complete basic administrative tasks, such as answering phone calls, greeting customers upon entry, arranging post, and managing diaries.
  • Offer owners emotionally supportive services to promote animal welfare.
  • Execute in/out-patient care, client counselling, and medication administration under the supervision of a licenced vet.
  • Interact with other staff to schedule appointments, perform exams, and record test results.

Quick tip: Create impressive job descriptions easily in our quick-and-easy CV Builder by adding pre-written job phrases for every industry and career stage.

Education section

Next up, you should list your education and qualifications.

This can include your formal qualifications (a degree, A-Levels and GCSEs), as well as sector-specific Veterinary Nurse qualifications and/or training.

While school leavers and recent grads should include a lot of detail here to make up for the lack of work experience, experienced candidates may benefit from a shorter education section, as your work experience section will be more important to recruiters.

Hobbies and interests

Although this is an optional section, it can be useful if your hobbies and interests will add further depth to your CV.

Interests which are related to the sector you are applying to, or which show transferable skills like leadership or teamwork, can worth listing.

On the other hand, generic hobbies like “going out with friends” won’t add any value to your application, so are best left off your CV.

When putting together your Veterinary Nurse CV, there are a few key points to remember.

Always tailor your CV to the target role, even if it means creating several versions for different roles.

Additionally, remember that the structure and format of your CV needs just as much attention as the content.

Good luck with your job search!

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The University of Liverpool's veterinary science department gets straight to the point when it comes to making an application to its veterinary science department: 'the competition is fierce.'

This is where a good personal statement can be an asset. 'Most applicants will have good predicted grades and references, so your personal statement is your main opportunity to set yourself apart from the rest,’ the Royal Veterinary College adds.

Work experience: do your research

Normally, you will need to have a range of relevant work experience before you apply and to reflect on this in your statement. The quality of your insights into the profession is crucial.

You also need to be clear about what individual veterinary schools expect, because it varies. For instance, Liverpool requires a minimum of ten weeks’ experience, while most others require a minimum of four or six weeks. The range of experience typically needs to include:

  • at least one veterinary practice
  • working with large domestic animals on a livestock farm, especially dairy or lambing
  • other animal experience such as stables, kennels, catteries, zoos, wildlife, or rescue centres, pig or poultry farms, or something more unusual

A day at an abattoir may be especially beneficial, and observing research in a veterinary or biomedical laboratory could be valuable too.

Do note that the University of Cambridge's requirements are slightly different, as they are more concerned about your interest in 'the scientific principles that underlie both the health and disease of animals.' They do require you to demonstrate a commitment to the profession and say that some experience will be useful, but they don't want you to give up on your other extra-curricular interests for the sake of gaining extensive work experience.

It's essential to research this in detail beforehand. Check out department websites and, where possible, attend open days or events.

Getting the balance and flow right

With the required experience under your belt, the next step is to achieve the right balance between brevity and detail in your statement, and to gear it to what your chosen universities are looking for. It will probably be a challenge to condense it all down to 47 lines, but here are some key points you could include:

  • Motivation: show what has motivated you to follow this career path. Be specific, and make it current or recent. What aspects are of special interest to you? Where do you hope the degree will lead? Reflect on what it is that’s driving you now, not something out-of-date.
  • Experience: provide some detailed evidence that shows you’re realistic and informed about the challenges you will face. Describe some of your experiences and observations, both of veterinary practice and from your wider animal experience. Get the balance right. They want you to show the breadth of your experience, but they want depth as well. Try to write briefly but reflectively about some of the highlights and what you learned from them. Also, try to include something that demonstrates your understanding of why interpersonal skills are crucial.
  • Academic interests and wider reading: give them a glimpse of your current academic and scientific interests, whether it’s from your studies, a project or issues you’ve come across in journals, books, blogs, events you’ve attended, and so on. If Cambridge is amongst your choices, it’s especially important to demonstrate your intellectual curiosity and your passion for science.
  • Extra-curricular activities: demonstrate your resilience, initiative, self-motivation, compassion, or other relevant transferable skills. This could be through the contribution you have made to school, college, or community activities, volunteering, your part-time work, or any wider interests, personal achievements, or responsibilities. Again, be specific!

Then consider the flow of your statement. Tell them enough to engage them and win yourself an interview, but leave enough unsaid that can be discussed in more depth at the interview itself. Remember that everything you write could be used as an interview starting point.

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Personal Statement

Admission committees look for applicants who capture the compassion as well as the passion for the field to which they wish to apply. The personal statement is your primary opportunity to distinguish yourself from the thousands of other applicants. Make a lasting impression by showing the admission committee who you are as a person and making the case that you possess the personality traits and characteristics to become a successful health care provider. 

The Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS) prompt is: 

Discuss briefly the development of your interest in veterinary medicine. Discuss those activities and unique experiences that have contributed to your preparation for a professional program. Discuss your understanding of the veterinary medical profession, and discuss your career goals and objectives. 

Here are some tips specific to veterinary school personal statement: 

  • Do not regurgitate experiences and other data already existing on other parts of the application.
  • Write about your knowledge of the veterinary profession.
  • Include information about who you are as a person and what diversity you might bring to the institution.
  • Include information about why you'd be a good candidate.

1. Brainstorm

Questions to ask yourself before you write.

  • Who are the most influential people in your life? What did they do for you?
  • What have been the pivotal moments in your life? 
  • What accomplishments are you most proud of?
  • What obstacles have you overcome?
  • What makes you different?
  • How will your skills and personality traits add diversity to the class?
  • Do you feel a passion for medicine? What is the source of that passion?
  • What do you want medical schools to know about you that hasn't been disclosed in other sections of the application? 
  • How would your family and friends describe you?
  • What are your goals and dreams?

Compile an inventory of all the activities, experiences, and relationships/influences that have helped to define the person you are today. Looking back, what can you recall having changed you? How were you affected? What lessons did you learn? What personality traits do they reflect in you? These notes will help you identify the topics or themes on which to focus your statement. As you are brainstorming, you may identify experiences that stir strong emotions. These experiences are likely to be meaningful to you and therefore may be good material for your personal statement. Speak from your heart. 

2. Start Writing

Identify your word limit.

Word/character limits for personal statements vary across professions so it is important that you identify your word or character limit before you start writing. The limit for the veterinary school application (VMCAS) is 5000 characters. Generally speaking, this is roughly one page single-spaced. Character limits for common health professions' application services (all include spaces): Allopathic medicine (AMCAS): 5300 characters. For Texas schools (TMDSAS): 5000 characters Osteopathic medicine (AACOMAS): 4500 characters Dentistry (AADSAS): 4500 characters Veterinary (VMCAS): 5000 characters Physician Assistant (CASPA): 5000 characters Accelerated Nursing programs: varies by school; for schools using NursingCAS, the limit is 5000 characters Physical Therapy (PTCAS): 4500 characters Public Health (SOPHAS): 1500 words

Get It on the Page For your first draft, don't get hung up on your beginning or ending. Instead, just start writing. You may feel the urge to write a lot about your personal journey; if so, run with it. This may provide you with good material and you can edit it later. 

  • Identify the most significant aspects from your notes that will enable you to address one or more of the following standard topics:
  • Your motivation for this career
  • Influence of your family and early experiences on your life
  • Influence of your extracurriculars, volunteer activities, and/or jobs on your life (what have you learned, how have you demonstrated leadership, and how have you matured?)
  • Your qualifications (unique attributes, personal qualities, and/or skills that set you apart) 
  • Long term goals 

Use your experiences to provide personal insight into your personal attributes. Weave a story that helps the reader understand who you are as a person rather than simply listing your achievements. Avoid repeating information that is included elsewhere on your application unless you are elaborating on how an experience has shaped you and your motivation for a career as a health professional. 

Address Academic Irregularities If Necessary

You may wish to use a section of your personal statement to address academic irregularities such as withdrawals, incompletes, repeated courses, or significant fluctuations in your academic record. If applicable, you may mention special hardships, challenges, or obstacles that may have influenced your academic performance. Instead of making excuses, acknowledge and explain the situation, and if applicable, what you are doing differently and what you have learned. 

Take Your Time and Take Breaks

  • Take breaks from writing instead of trying to write everything in one sitting. Picking up your draft later can test whether your writing flows. 
  • Read your writing aloud and listen to what you hear to check for grammatical errors, flow, and clarity. 

3. Organize Your Writing

Overall shape of the essay.

There is no one correct format for a personal statement. Strong personal statements often begin with a brief background that will serve as the foundation for the message you wish to convey. The bulk of the essay will illustrate the impression you wish to make on the reader, and will flow into a succinct conclusion. Always keep in mind that your essay must be interesting enough to immediately grab the reader's attention and compelling enough to hold it whether your essay is the first or fiftieth one the reader has seen that day. Though you are not limited to these examples, some people find it helpful to use one of the following approaches:

  • I've always wanted to be a doctor/dentist/veterinarian
  • My parents are health care providers
  • Being a patient/having a sick family member made me want to become a health care provider
  • My experiences in a clinical environment piqued/confirmed my interest in the health professions
  • Through my [non-health care] experiences, I have developed the skills and personal qualities to be an effective health care provider.

Organizational Strategy 

You may find it helpful to use one of the following  types of organizational strategies with your outline:

Standard structure: This type of organization is one you are probably very familiar with from your academic writing. In your first paragraph, you introduce the main points of your essay. In the following paragraphs, you provide evidence to support each of your main points (usually defending one point per paragraph). In your final paragraph, you reiterate your main points in the context of the evidence you presented, possibly leaving the reader with some "big idea" that takes your message one step further.

Comparison: This organizational structure attempts to draw a comparison or analogy between two seemingly unrelated things. In the case of medical school applicants, these essays usually compare a non-medical life experience/talent/interest/famous quote with the field of medicine or the applicant's desire to pursue medicine. It is common for applicants to begin with a story, personal anecdote, quote as a lead and then spend the rest of the essay describing how the lead relates to or sheds light on medicine or their goal of becoming a physician.

If you use this structure, make sure that you provide adequate reflection on how your two disparate ideas connect (or don't connect) to each other. Make your arguments explicit; don't leave it up to the audience to figure out your points. Also, don't get too abstract or philosophical in your comparisons. You don't need to say something profound; rather, just be yourself. Remember, your discussion should always lead back to you and your motivations to enter your health profession of choice.   

Chronology: In this type of outline, the writer takes the reader through the various steps in his/her life that led him/her to medicine. The introduction is usually the initial event that started the writer on his/her journey toward becoming a doctor. The writer then generally recounts the subsequent events in which he/she further explored and/or was further drawn into the medical profession before concluding with how all these events brought him/her to where he/she is today.

The advantage of this approach is that it allows for a more personal approach and helps the admissions committee to know you by turning the focus of the essay to you throughout the various stages of your life. The drawback is that the points you are trying to make can get lost in the narration of your life. To avoid this potential danger, make sure you clearly state how each of these events shaped you and your decision to pursue a health profession as well as the important lessons you learned along the way.

Opening Sentence

Your opening sentence can simultaneously set the theme of your essay and engage the reader. Here are some different types of leads you may wish to try out:

Standard:  State what you will be talking about in the paper. This can take on the form of a "thesis" in many ways (i.e. "My interest in medicine began with my trip to Honduras"). This lead sets up the reader for a focused, well-structured essay and helps you to get the point quickly (infinitely useful in a short essay like the personal statement). Creative:  Add interest by making the reader wonder what will come next (i.e. "I was awoken by the beating of African drums that filled the air"). Action:  Take the reader into the middle of the action. This is useful if you're trying to conserve space or if your essay begins with a story (i.e. "Our car breaks screeched as the truck came hurtling toward us"). Personal:  Reveal something about you (i.e. "My grandmother's words touched my soul like nothing else"). Quotation:  Begin with a direct quotation or paraphrase whose meaning pertains to the main points you are trying to convey in your essay (i.e. "FDR once proclaimed that 'the only thing we have to fear is fear itself,' and I have frequently tried to follow his advice"). Avoid using clichés. 

Dialogue:  Put the reader into the middle of a conversation, whether it be an actual talk between two people or your own internal thoughts (i.e. "'I don't want to die,' cried the little girl"). Informative:  State a fact that is relevant to the topic of your essay (i.e. "Every doctor remembers her first patient"). 

Ask yourself if your essay can stand without an introduction. It may be appropriate to simply begin with the action of the story (in media res as they say) and then move on to discussing how that story ties into the points you will be making throughout the rest of the essay. 

Tie together the most important points you've made in your essay to bring the reader full-circle. The final sentence or two of your essay can be enough for a conclusion, especially if you're running low on space. The important thing is to make sure you bring your thoughts to their logical end and create a positive, memorable image in the reader's mind. Endings are the last experience the admissions committee will have with your essay, so your goal should be to leave them thinking that it was a satisfying read and wishing that there was more.

4. Get Feedback

Find someone to give you critical feedback who isn't afraid to hurt your feelings. Give your draft to multiple sources to get different perspectives. Ideally you should ask someone who is a good writer to help you with your writing, someone who knows you well enough to verify if your writing sounds like you, and someone who doesn't know you as well who can provide perspective on the impression you are making. Clarity in your writing will reflect good communication skills. By the end of the statement, the reader should be able to see the world through your eyes.   

5. Refine Your Writing

The most important part of the personal statement is the impression of yourself that you are creating. After reading your personal statement, readers may ask themselves if you would be interesting to interview. 

Quality of Writing

It is expected that your personal statement be error-free. Grammatical errors may reflect carelessness. 

Further resources

For further advice on writing personal statements in general, visit the Writing Center Resources page.

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Successful Personal Statement For Veterinary Medicine At Cambridge

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rohan Agarwal

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Veterinary Medicine applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Cambridge University. The Veterinary Medicine Course at Cambridge offers a world-class opportunity to study the scientific basis of veterinary medicine and clinical veterinary science.

Read on to see how this candidate managed to secure an offer from a world-class department.  

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

LONDON VET SCHOOL

INTERVIEW + REJECTED

Enrolling on our Cambridge Veterinary Science comprehensive Programme will give you access to Personal Statement redrafts. 

With our Cambridge Veterinary Medicine  Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

Discover our Premium Programmes today to learn how you can enrol and triple your chances of success.  

Veterinary Medicine Personal Statement

Witnessing the birth of a calf was a wonderful experience and has helped to confirm my long-term ambition to be a vet. This desire has been a motivating force in all my decisions at school. Veterinary medicine is a challenging and worthwhile career that encapsulates my profound interest in animal welfare, scientific enquiry and problem solving.  It will satisfy my passion to work with people and animals as well as my love of science. It requires academic rigour, is scientifically-based and provides opportunities for further research either in laboratory or clinical settings. It involves considerable practical skills and the potential for great job satisfaction with the possibility of running my own practice.

My work experience has been thoroughly enjoyable and included working with a country vet, a farrier, at a private stables, a commercial reptile centre, a dairy farm and a small animal clinic. With the country vet I observed two successful treatments on cows to correct displacement of the abomasum by external manipulation and surgery. I helped with TB testing, learning the process, its importance and the wider context. Working with the farrier opened my mind to other people who interact with the veterinary profession. Whilst involved in cleaning and feeding at the private stables I developed a great respect for horses including an awareness of the danger they can pose for humans and other animals. At the reptile centre I handled a bearded dragon, monitor lizard and snakes whilst assisting in an educational talk and at Beaver World learnt to care for guinea pigs, rabbits, beavers, pheasants and fish. During my nine-day stay on a dairy farm I took part in the daily routine of milking, and as well as observing the birth of a calf, I saw the deterioration of a cow and the eventual decision to put her down. It was apparent that working in a small animal clinic involves many routine operations like the castration and spaying of cats and dogs. I learnt that diagnosis involves history-taking, examination and investigations such as blood tests and diagnostic imaging. To gain more experience I plan to work at a city farm, participate in the delivery of lambs and carry out placements at London Zoo and the London Aquarium.

I attended VetMedlink at Nottingham University, thirty six lectures on all aspects of veterinary care. As part of this course I voluntarily undertook my own research into potential new uses of stem cells and submitted a paper which was marked and for which I received a distinction. This is due to be published on-line sometime this year. My focus was how stem cells inserted into the brain could be used in the future to improve intelligence and treat neural problems such as Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, I will be attending a course in November to enable me to administer aid to stranded or injured marine mammals.

As well as good examination grades, my other school achievements include prize certificates in mathematics and biology; I was especially pleased to win Gold Certificates in the UK Maths Challenge. This year I was commended for the quality of my answers in the Chemistry Challenge set by my school which required logical reasoning skills. I have a special aptitude for mathematics and attended six maths lectures at Greenwich University on themes which included matrices and types of mathematical proof.

I aim to involve myself whole-heartedly in university life, using my musical skills by playing the keyboard and perhaps playing in or starting a sports team.

I truly believe I have the ability to work effectively with people and animals. I am excited about the veterinary course since it offers the opportunity to undertake research projects, understand the scientific basis of medicine, gain in-depth knowledge of veterinary practice and develop key practical skills. I am determined to become a vet and eager to begin the formal course of training in what I know will prove to be a fascinating field of study.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

Successful personal statement for economics at cambridge, successful personal statement for land economy at cambridge, successful personal statement for chemistry at oxford, successful personal statement for geography at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at oxford, successful personal statement for law at oxford, successful personal statement for classics at cambridge, successful personal statement for engineering at cambridge, successful personal statement for philosophy at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychological and behavioural sciences at cambridge, successful personal statement for psychology at oxford, successful personal statement for history at oxford, successful personal statement for physics at oxford, successful personal statement for cambridge mathematics and physics, successful personal statement example for computer science at oxford, successful personal statement for english at cambridge, successful personal statement for oxford english language and literature, successful personal statement for medicine at oxford university, successful personal statement for modern languages at oxford, successful personal statement for engineering at oxford, successful personal statement for natural sciences (biological) at cambridge, successful personal statement for economics & management at oxford, successful personal statement for ppe at oxford, successful personal statement for law at cambridge, successful personal statement for dentistry at king’s college london, successful personal statement for medicine at cambridge.

Download our Free Personal Statement Starter Guide 

Good Points Of The Personal Statement

A well written and well-structured statement that provides a good insight into the student’s character and development, both academically as well as personally. The student demonstrates a good scientific foundation, achieving various degrees of academic excellence and also demonstrates a wide range of different work-experience attachments giving insight into different specialities of veterinary medicine. This is particularly important due to the wide range of differences between different animal species. The broader the experience before starting the degree, the better. Furthermore, the work-experience placements will provide valuable contacts for when the student will be required to conduct care attachments during his/her studies at university.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

One of the central points of veterinary medicine not related to the academic side is the funding structure. Recognising the challenges that come in regard to the treatment of patients, as well as in regard to the interaction with owners, is an important component. Since the student experienced care in different practice settings, it is likely that he/she has come across this issue.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

Good statement giving good detail about the student and his/her motivation as well as his/her individual development. It could be improved by additional reflection on the challenges of veterinary practice, for example, the existing funding structures.

This Personal Statement for Vet Med is a good example of demonstrating motivation and development which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Cambridge, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

Go to our Free Personal Statement Resources page for even more successful personal statements and expert guides.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Cambridge Veterinary application.

With our  Cambridge Veterinary Science Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the NSAA and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

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Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing - Online Personal Statement

  • Why do you want to study veterinary nursing, and specifically the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing?
  • Describe your relevant animal and veterinary-related experience/qualifications. Be sure to provide details (including timeframe) and evidence of any volunteering, work-experience or paid work that you have done, along with any animal or veterinary-related study.
  • Describe scenarios where you have demonstrated multitasking and organisational abilities. For example, managing studying and working and other life commitments.
  • Describe any community involvement, leadership and teamwork activities that you have participated in Be sure to explain what teamwork means to you and provide details of teamwork activities you have done that demonstrate your teamwork skills. This could include volunteering, work, school achievements and extra-curricular activities.

The character count is to be between 250-500. Applicants are also required to provide supporting evidence and/or letters of support where applicable at the time of application.

Failure to submit the personal statement and supporting documentation will delay the assessment process. For Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre applicants, please also submit any supporting documents directly to VTAC.

Please note, applicants can submit the applications a maximum of 2 times.

  • International

All information provided by applicants will be treated as confidential. At La Trobe University, we respect the privacy of your personal information. We collect personal information in your application to determine your eligibility for a scholarship, bursary or grant, and to assess your application as part of the ranking and allocation process. In accordance with privacy laws, personal information about you contained in your application will not be used for any other purpose or disclosed to any person who is not part of the La Trobe assessment and allocation process, without your permission. You may have the right to access personal information we hold about you, subject to any exceptions in relevant laws, by contacting the Scholarships Office. The La Trobe University privacy policy can be viewed at: www.latrobe.edu.au/privacy

Veterinary Personal Statement

Sample Veterinary Personal Statement

Having always been interested in animals, my fascination has only increased as my understanding of their biology has grown. Looking into the twin processes of evolution and selective breeding has allowed me to understand some of the genetic drawbacks that certain species face, such as ventricular septal defects in bulldogs, and has awoken a desire within me to apply this knowledge to diagnosis and treatment. Veterinary medicine offers an opportunity to combine this concern for animal welfare with an ever-changing, intellectually stimulating professional environment.

Convinced of my desire to study veterinary medicine I have concentrated my studies on science and maths, particularly excelling in Biology, demonstrating my natural affinity with the subject and laying an excellent foundation for study. Chemistry and Physics have rounded out my understanding of the sciences, while Maths has improved my ability to approach problems in a rational, measured manner. My overall performance at GCSE demonstrates my positive attitude to study and my willingness to work hard to succeed in all subjects.

In addition to my commitment to studying the relevant subjects and increase my knowledge, I have undertaken a range of work experience to further my awareness of what the job actually entails. Beginning with a 2-week placement, where I assisted with preparing work surfaces prior to surgery or consultations and holding dogs and cats during injections. It was particularly impressive to see that way in which the vet approached all situations calmly, utilising impressive interpersonal skills when dealing with owners. Observing and assisting with consultations and surgery at Fern Cottage Veterinary Surgery allowed me observe the differences between practicing in South Africa and practising in the UK, offering employment experience across an international context. At Sjeal Arabian Horse Stud Farm I learnt about the connected processes of husbandry and breeding, and a vet’s role within them, as well as worming horses and observing a farrier at work. By developing this knowledge at Eye Horn Farm Stables, where I gained experience of checking for soundness and laminitis in racehorses, I have gained a strong sense of equine treatment in particular. A week spent lambing at a local farm, where I learnt about the Bluetongue virus and the Culicoides midge, also introduced me to the basics of veterinary medicine within a farming context.

Outside of my academic interests I am a keen sportsman, applying the same dedication to training as I have to my studies and work experience. As a Silver Sports Ambassador, I am charged with promoting Olympic values and encouraging younger members of my community to get involved in sport. This is a particularly exciting opportunity for me to pass on my passion for rugby, having played for both Sheppey RFC and my school team for a number of years. I also enjoy combining my passion for sport with raising money for charity, regularly running in the Paul Trigwell Island Run. Perhaps my proudest achievement was forming part of an expedition to Tanzania, which included summiting Kilimanjaro and working to improve a local primary school. While also improving my teamwork and leadership skills, this expedition allowed me to experience a different culture and has instilled in me a love of travelling.

As a hardworking student , I have applied the same dedicated attitude to my studies as I have to gaining employment experience in my chosen field. Through work experience and attending a Vetsim course, where I developed a particular interest in avian veterinary surgery that I would be keen to develop later, I have gained a real sense of what working within the field entails and am convinced that, as an empathetic person with excellent communication skills and a strong affinity with animal welfare issues, I have what it takes to make a real contribution to veterinary medicine.

We hope this great sample Veterinary personal statement has been helpful.

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What personal attributes do you need to be a veterinary nurse?

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  • Starting out

Veterinary nurses

Image ©iStock.com/urbancow

A career in veterinary nursing can be incredibly rewarding, especially for those who love both animals and people.

But having the academic qualification is not all you need – you’ll also need to have the personal attributes that go with being a veterinary nurse to succeed.

Are you calm?

One key attribute vet nurses need is to be calm. Anything can happen in a surgery and the vet will need to know you can remain calm in any given situation.

Can you exercise resilience?

It goes without saying you need to be an animal lover, but do you also have the ability to separate your emotions from the task at hand?

Seeing animals euthanised, or suffer from an illness or accident, can be extremely difficult to experience, especially for passionate animal lovers.

Are you capable of being resilient and separating your own feelings to get on with the job? Veterinary nurses need to exercise a fine balance between being caring and rational.

Are you confident?

You may think being a veterinary nurse means you will be instructed at every turn by the vet, but you will actually need to have the confidence to make your own decisions at many points of every working day.

You’ll need to be both confident and assertive to become a veterinary nurse, someone who can take responsibility for his or her decisions and actions.

Nurses are responsible for taking blood tests, administering medicine, and checking vital statistics and, in some cases, diagnostics. Areas you may need to act assertively also include speaking to pet owners.

Are you hard-working?

Veterinary nurses work incredibly hard. There’s not much time in the day to sit down and, in the case of surgery, you may end up working over your designated hours.

Veterinary nurses need to be prepared for hard work, which includes plenty of physical demands.

Becoming a veterinary nurse is a wonderful career choice for those who love caring for animals, but, whether you go for the apprenticeship route or gain a degree in veterinary nursing, you’ll need to possess the aforementioned personal skills to be a success.

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  1. How to Write a Great Veterinary Nursing Personal Statement

    There's no "right" way to structure your veterinary nursing personal statement, however it's a good idea to include: A clear introduction, explaining why you want to study the course and become a registered veterinary nurse. A section focusing on your work experience and academic achievements, to show how you're qualified to study ...

  2. How to write a veterinary nurse personal statement

    A veterinary nurse is a crucial component of any busy vet practice, as they help ensure the health and wellbeing of many types of pets. A compelling personal statement is one key way to share your passion, commitment and unique qualities with potential employers. If you're interested in applying for this role, a well-written personal statement can help increase your chances of securing an ...

  3. Vet School Personal Statement: How to Write + Examples

    1. Example From the Veterinary School at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. "Living with my single mother, a nurse who often works over 60 hours a week to support my family, has taught me the value of hard work. From her, I have learned to be passionate and meticulous in all the work that I do.

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    Attitude To Study. Our tutors assess your personal statement for academic interest but also for traits that demonstrate important skills such as resilience, work-life balance, teamwork, and communication. Our skilled reviewers will ensure you avoid listing experiences and assist you in prioritising which experiences to reflect on - quality is ...

  5. Vet School Personal Statement Examples to Guide You

    This vet school personal statement has three key strengths: #1: The initial narrative about the applicant's childhood pet, Titan, coupled with the writer's ability to be vulnerable (e.g., stating that they lacked self-confidence), allows an adcom reader to form an image of the candidate and want to learn more. Furthermore, the connection ...

  6. Veterinary Personal Statement Examples For University

    Veterinary Personal Statement. I grow up on the farm. Since a young age, my passion for horses has ignited a deep connection with these magnificent animals. Growing up, I immersed myself in the world of equine care, constantly learning and developing my knowledge of their well-being. It was through this journey that I discovered my fervour for ...

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    Degree Course Quiz. Find the ideal university course for you in minutes by taking our degree matchmaker quiz today. Browse our range of Veterinary personal statement examples. Gain inspiration & make sure you're on the right track when writing your own personal statement.

  8. PDF Veterinary School Personal Statements

    Veterinary school admission committees generally judge a candidate's merit based upon. undergraduate grade-point averages (GPA), Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores, interviews, veterinary related experiences, letters of recommendation, and the personal. statements (Roush et al., 2014).

  9. How To Write a Vet School Personal Statement

    Vet school committees will expect you to remain professional and precise in what you say with word limitations in mind. However, you should aim for a conversational, friendly tone. Your personal statement is about you, so it should give the admissions committee an insight into your personality. Try to find a happy medium where you don't sound ...

  10. Veterinary personal statement: The Introduction

    The introduction of your Veterinary Personal Statement should be the first thing to grasp the reader's attention, make it snappy and captivating. This is the difference between your application grabbing someone's attention and it being like all the others they have read. Use your judgement to assess whether your opening lines are authentic ...

  11. PDF Personal Statements

    Personal Statements. Many application processes include a requirement to state why you believe that you are suitable for the job or course in question. This section of the application form is often referred to as a 'personal statement'. It is your opportunity to convince the reader that you are interested in the position and that you have ...

  12. VIRMP® Personal Statement: Dos and Don'ts

    Your personal statement should be written in a formal style, like a business letter. Although contractions, ellipses, and casual phrasing may be appropriate for a blog post, they should be avoided in your personal statement. Do keep it concise. Although your personal statement can be up to two pages in length, try to be concise and limit it to ...

  13. Veterinary Science Personal Statement Examples

    Veterinary Medicine Personal Statement Example 1. I have always wanted to be a vet and love animals. I am studying biology which I find particularly fascinating, chemistry, maths, history and animal related diplomas. I am looking at the link between euthanasia and lameness in horses as an Extended Project...

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    Veterinary Nurse CV Profile. Make a strong first impression with recruiters by starting your CV with an impactful profile (or personal statement for junior applicants). This short introduction paragraph should summarise your skills, experience, and knowledge, highlighting your suitability for the job.

  15. Personal statement advice: veterinary medicine

    Experience: provide some detailed evidence that shows you're realistic and informed about the challenges you will face. Describe some of your experiences and observations, both of veterinary practice and from your wider animal experience. Get the balance right. They want you to show the breadth of your experience, but they want depth as well.

  16. Veterinary

    Word/character limits for personal statements vary across professions so it is important that you identify your word or character limit before you start writing. The limit for the veterinary school application (VMCAS) is 5000 characters. Generally speaking, this is roughly one page single-spaced. Character limits for common health professions ...

  17. Successful Personal Statement For Veterinary Medicine At Cambridge

    Veterinary Medicine Personal Statement. Witnessing the birth of a calf was a wonderful experience and has helped to confirm my long-term ambition to be a vet. This desire has been a motivating force in all my decisions at school. Veterinary medicine is a challenging and worthwhile career that encapsulates my profound interest in animal welfare ...

  18. Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing

    Veterinary Nursing Personal Statement. Why do you want to study veterinary nursing, and specifically the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing? * Describe your relevant animal and veterinary-related experience/qualifications. Be sure to provide details (including timeframe) and evidence of any volunteering, work-experience or paid work that you have ...

  19. Veterinary Personal Statement

    Veterinary Personal Statement. Sample Veterinary Personal Statement. Having always been interested in animals, my fascination has only increased as my understanding of their biology has grown. Looking into the twin processes of evolution and selective breeding has allowed me to understand some of the genetic drawbacks that certain species face ...

  20. What personal attributes do you need to be a veterinary nurse?

    You'll need to be both confident and assertive to become a veterinary nurse, someone who can take responsibility for his or her decisions and actions. Nurses are responsible for taking blood tests, administering medicine, and checking vital statistics and, in some cases, diagnostics. Areas you may need to act assertively also include speaking ...

  21. Veterinary nursing personal statement

    A. Little Tail Chaser. Introduction: You need a few lines to grab attention and immediately set yourself apart from other applicants. Vague statements about loving science and animals do not do this, make sure it's personal. Work experience should be the crux of the piece (50 - 70% I would say). Make sure it's abundantly clear how much you have ...

  22. Veterinary science and medicine personal statements

    Veterinary science and medicine personal statements. On this page you'll find a collection of real personal statements written by students applying to study veterinary science and related courses at university. These personal statements are written by real students - don't expect them all to be perfect! But by reading through a few of these ...

  23. Vet Nursing Personal Statement

    21. 1) You need to explain why you want to do VN - and not just 'because I like animals and enjoy science' or using examples of how the Vet saved your hamster's life when you were 6. There isn't an easy answer to this, or a 'best way' to do it. You just need to avoid sounding 'teenage' in your motivation. 2) Explain your work experience clearly.