What questions do you have for us about Auburn University?

"I would love to learn more about this university from your perspective. What is the biggest competitive edge Auburn University has over its competitors in the field of veterinary medicine? Also, where are some unique areas where you see some of your recent graduates going into practice?"

As the DVM program at Auburn University considers many great applicants for their program, your interviewers want to know that you walk away with all your questions answered if you emerge as a top candidate to admit. Having prepared questions shows the panel you are keenly interested in what they do at Auburn University.

Come to your interview prepared with a handful of questions for the interviewers at Auburn University. Remember that people like to talk about what they know! Your insightful questions set the stage for the interviewers to tell you many important and helpful details about their process and educational facility. Try to keep the majority of your questions academically related. Asking too much about the school's culture, social life, and extra-curricular activities may cause you to appear unfocused.

How do you respond to feedback and criticism on your work? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?

"During my undergraduate program, I received a low grade on a chemistry project. When I approached my professor about the low grade, he said, 'You can do better. I expected more from you.' I was taken aback at first, but once I had time to absorb what was said, I realized that he expected more from me because he had high expectations of what I could do. It was a compliment and a challenge rolled into one! I re-did the assignment with more passion the second time around. My grade improved significantly, and I thanked that professor for holding me to a higher standard."

During your training at Auburn University's veterinary medicine program, your coursework and clinical work will be under constant scrutiny to help you become the best you can be. Not all feedback you receive from faculty will be delivered in a friendly, easy-to-absorb manner. Your interviewers want to see that you are confident and mature enough to accept feedback and criticism positively, even when it is unsolicited.

Think of a time you received feedback or criticism that was hurtful or surprising. Discuss how you reacted productively. Tell a story that shows the interviewers how you took the criticism and learned from it. Talk about how you successfully implemented changes in response to the feedback and how you will continue to do so as a student at Auburn University.

What achievement are you most proud of so far on your path to veterinary school?

"The achievement I am most proud of was maintaining a GPA of 3.9 during my undergraduate program while working to support my tuition and volunteering regularly. I'm proud of the way I learned to manage and navigate my school duties, work commitments, and personal life. These skills will help me greatly in the DVM program at Auburn University."

Completing four years in the doctor of veterinary medicine program at Auburn University is an accomplishment in itself. To get at your sense of achievement, your interviewers would like to know what achievements are most important to you.

Perhaps you have maintained an exceptional GPA or excelled in school while working a part-time job. Maybe you finished top of your class and received a special award for your achievements. Speak with passion as you discuss what you feel is your greatest accomplishment up to this point in your life. Remember that discussing something from your personal life is fair game as long as you can demonstrate the hard work you put into it.

How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?

"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing and can be very disheartening, especially when involving a project that I have put a lot of time and effort into. I understand that setbacks happen to all veterinary medicine students - despite their level of expertise or years of experience. If I experience a major setback in my coursework, I take a few moments to debrief internally, get some fresh air if possible, or discuss what I could have done differently with a mentor. Then, I move on. Rather than dwell on my mistakes, I choose to learn from them."

Everyone handles the inevitable stress and disappointment of setbacks differently during their time in veterinary school. Your interviewers at Auburn University know that your grades can determine your future career's success, and they want to ensure you will be able to handle the challenging moments of their program with ease.

Discuss with the interviewers how you typically cope with setbacks in your coursework. Be sure to come to your interview at Auburn University prepared to discuss your ability to remain focused, learn from your mistakes and be a great communicator when you face challenges in your work.

Is there a specific area you wish to work in as a vet? Do you have any aspirations to work outside of a standard practice?

"At this time, I don't have a specific area that I wish to work in as a vet because, over the years, my interests and curiosities have changed. As a student in veterinary school at Auburn University, I will learn and discover new passions that may lead to new paths. Farming is a family tradition, and I have a passion for equine medicine right now."

The interviewer team at Auburn University is questioning your future career choices and wishes to know if any area of subspecialty within veterinary medicine appeals to you. The interviewers will use your answer to understand your future career aspirations and assist in guiding you through this process to reach them if you are accepted into their program.

First and foremost, there is no right or wrong answer to this question. Before your interview with the Auburn University veterinary school, consider your ultimate career goals as a vet and come to your interview prepared to discuss those goals. If possible, relate the curriculum at Auburn University

At Auburn University, we believe in the continual development of our students, both professionally and personally. What is your self-development plan during vet school?

"Self-development requires a commitment to growth inside and outside of the classroom. While committing myself to the DVM program at Auburn University, I look forward to attending conferences and expos such as VMX. I also want to improve my writing skills during veterinary school to help further my future career aspirations in research."

Having a self-development plan is incredibly important for aspiring Veterinarians. In asking this question, your interviewers at the Auburn University veterinary medicine program want to know your plan for self-development and improvement in the coming four years. If they are going to invest time and resources into you, they need to know that you have a plan in place for investing in yourself.

As you answer this question, remember that your self-development plan should include improving some of the soft skills required to be a successful Veterinarian. Whether you're thinking about reading certain books, listening to podcasts, attending workshops, or working with a tutor, explain why developing in these areas is important to you.

Are you interested in opening your own animal clinic one day? What are your business aspirations?

"My ultimate goal would be to open my own veterinary clinic one day, as I want to control the prices of my services and provide affordable veterinary services to my community. I do have an entrepreneurial spirit, so I feel that opening my own practice would scratch that itch as well."

As an aspiring veterinarian, there are many career paths that you can take. The interviewing team at Auburn University wants to know about your career plans and if you have intentions of joining an existing practice or starting your own.

Be open and honest about your plans and desire for your career path after veterinary school at Auburn University. There is no need to worry about trying to impress or win your interviewers over with your answer, as they want a group of students with diverse career interests. Honesty will help them cater to your training path with their program.

What is your favorite area of veterinary medicine so far? Which is your least favorite? Why?

"I'm very interested in a few different areas of veterinary medicine and am looking forward to exploring more options over the next four years in the DVM program at Auburn. Behavioral medicine continues to intrigue me because of the relationship between environment and health in the behavior of animals. Creating treatment plans in these cases seems like a great puzzle to solve. I don't have any areas I consider my least favorite right now, but I would not likely pursue a future in veterinary lab science."

By understanding your areas of interest, the interviewers can predict which courses you will enjoy most at Auburn University and how you will fit into their student population and culture. While you don't have to have your future carved out while interviewing for veterinary school, your interviewers would love to hear where you're thinking your interests fall at the current time.

Talk openly about where your interests currently are in the field of veterinary medicine. If you know any areas that likely won't interest you in your career, it's okay to discuss that. If you are honest and genuine with your interviewers, they will respect your answer.

What are your thoughts on alternative medicine for animals? Which aspects do you agree and disagree with?

"Although I am a supporter of traditional medicine, I understand that alternative therapy can offer great benefits for some animals. I agree that there is a science behind alternative medicine; however, alternative medicine should be more strictly regulated. People need to educate themselves better before jumping into 'all-natural' therapy for their pets. Prescribed tonics and herbs can be dangerous if taken in the wrong dosages. Even though it is natural, it doesn't mean that your pet will react favorably. As with all medicine and practices, research and education are crucial."

Alternative medicine in veterinary medicine, such as acupuncture, botanical medicine, and other alternative treatments, can be controversial. Some healthcare professionals love it, some are highly skeptical, and some people's opinions land in the middle. Your interviewing team at Auburn University's veterinary school wants to hear if you have any preconceived notions on this subject.

First and foremost, there are no right or wrong answers to a question like this. Just like you would answer a sensitive question surrounding politics or religion, it's best to support both sides in some aspect when delivering your response. If you plan to voice a highly one-sided opinion, be prepared to give substantial evidence-based thoughts supporting your viewpoint.

As a future veterinarian, how do you plan to use your role to benefit members of your community? Do you think volunteering is important?

"Bettering my community is going to be a big part of what I do as a veterinarian. I already volunteer at the emergency animal shelter and plan to continue volunteering after graduation. One specific way I plan to benefit the members of my community is by holding free animal vaccination drives to help low-income families. I love that the students at Auburn University get the chance to give back. I read about the spay/neuter program you've done in the past in Birmingham, and it sounds like a fun and impactful opportunity."

Auburn University's college of veterinary medicine is a firm believer in volunteerism; they allow their students to participate in many different volunteer activities during their time with the program. With this question, your interviewers want to know that you see the importance of community involvement. As a veterinarian, your knowledge and help will be greatly needed and appreciated by your community.

Show that you are willing to be generous with your time and knowledge as a veterinary student and a future vet. Before your interview with Auburn University, read their website to learn about the great volunteer activities their students have participated in. Some ways a veterinarian can benefit their community include providing education about animal rescues and charities available to them, offering free or reduced-fee services to low-income families, or holding free workshops on topics such as animal training or spaying/neutering.

What issues do you think the field of veterinary medicine will face in the years to come?

"I have spent a lot of time watching roundtable videos, reading journals on the future of veterinary medicine, and diving into blogs related to the challenges veterinarians expect to face. The top issues include the lack of solutions for low-income pet owners when unexpected expenses arise, particularly emergency treatments. Unattainable financial demands will increase the rate of unnecessary animal surrender or even euthanization. A veterinarian can choose to reduce their pricing in these instances; still, the expenses associated with emergency care are then put primarily on the veterinarian, who may already be experiencing clinic cash flow issues. With fast and continuous change in vet tech, practitioners will need to focus on continued education, again incurring significant expenses. I was speaking with my veterinarian not long ago, and she estimates that, since becoming a vet, she has invested at least $100,000 in continued education. In the future, I would love to see veterinarians gain access to more affordable options to continue educating themselves on the latest industry techniques. Further partnerships with the companies manufacturing this tech would benefit the vet, the manufacturer, and pet owners. Overall, I feel positive, knowing that our industry is ever-evolving. If we can find a way to make these changes financially sustainable for animal care professionals, that would be the ideal situation."

The animal care profession faces many challenges today and into the future. These challenges include slow cash flow for clinics and practices, lack of financial solutions for low-income pet owners, and expensive changes in veterinary technology. The interviewing team at Auburn University's college of veterinary medicine wants to see that you have a beat on the conversations happening in the veterinary industry.

Be prepared to have an open discussion with your interviewers about the issues you believe the veterinary medicine industry faces. Rather than ending on a 'doom and gloom' tone, be sure to offer some positive statements regarding your hope for the industry and how you plan to make a positive impact as a future veterinarian.

Have you been reading any veterinary sciences newspapers, journals, or publications to stay in touch with new medical discoveries and current events?

"Right now, I'm preparing to submit for membership in the student AVMA. Throughout my undergraduate program, I read Vet Practice Magazine and Science Daily regularly. In addition to these resources, I also liked to read the TVP articles available online. It's important to diversify where your news comes from, and I would love some fresh suggestions. What are your favorite places for news on current trends?"

Veterinarians have a plethora of associations, journals, and publications that they can take part in to stay on top of their game in their careers. The team at the Auburn University veterinary medicine school wants to hear that you have a keen interest in continually learning your craft and that you've hopefully already taken some interest in exploring some of them before applying to vet school.

List a few veterinary-related medical journals you have explored up to this point and discuss how often you dive into news related to animal science. Perhaps you subscribe to a particular magazine or blog or follow certain social media accounts. Now is a great time to discuss any veterinary-related associations you plan to join as a student. It's also a great idea to ask the interviewers about their favorite ways to stay in touch on industry-related current events. Asking this question in return can make for great dialogue, and you never know what you will learn!

How well do you think you have performed in this interview today?

"I feel I was well-prepared for the questions you asked me today and am happy with my performance in this interview. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. From what I've learned before applying and from everyone today, I see the next four years at Auburn University's veterinary medicine program as a great fit for me personally. Can I ask if there is anything I can clarify for you or elaborate on from today's conversation?"

For prospective DVM students at Auburn University, the interview can be a stressful time that flies by in an instant. With this question, your interviewers want to know if you are happy with your performance in the interview and want to ensure that you don't walk away with any points unclarified.

There is always room for improvement; however, you want to avoid picking your interview apart. If you feel you could have performed better at any point in your interview, don't hesitate to let your interviewers know anything you'd like to clarify. If you feel the interview went well, confidently tell the interviewing team and reiterate your excitement for the next four years of training in their program.

Veterinary school is expensive. Have you made a solid financial plan for tuition costs at Auburn University?

"I started planning for veterinary school as early as possible and was very careful in determining how much to request in loan assistance. I will also be happy to utilize financial aid/assistance available from Auburn University. I plan to receive and implement sound advice from others to ensure that my financial plan is beneficial and current."

With the annual tuition for Alabama and Kentucky residents at over $50,000 and the non-resident tuition at just under $75,000 for Auburn University's veterinary medicine program, your interviewers want to know that you can afford the tuition. They ideally want to hear that you have put some thought and researched your options for being able to handle this burden associated with your acceptance into their program.

Keep your answer brief and to the point. Let the interviewers know you have a solid financial plan for your veterinary medicine schooling. If you've looked into and applied for financial aid or grants, now is a great time to discuss your plan if you are accepted to the program at Auburn University.

"I know veterinary school is quite expensive, but it is an investment in my whole future as a professional. I started planning and I would definitely be careful to determine how much to request in student loans to pay off my tuition. I would be very grateful to use any financial aid or assistance I can qualify or compete for. I also have the economic support of my family back home."

What other schools have you applied to, and where does Auburn University rank?

"When considering veterinary programs throughout the country, I was very selective in where I wanted to apply because I wanted to find a great fit for me and my career goals. Because of this, I applied to Auburn University, Colorado State University, Ohio State University, and the University of Georgia. Auburn remains at the top of my wish list because of your focus on teaching care for small and large animals and having great access to training with veterinary specialists."

The interviewers would like to understand the types of schools garnering your interest. Knowing where you are applying will help them determine if Auburn University will meet your specific needs and educational desires or goals. If you emerge as a top candidate, it may also shed some light on the competition.

Be transparent when answering this question, but avoid saying anything offensive, such as 'this school is my last choice.' Determine the number one reason you want to attend Auburn University and focus on that when explaining why their veterinary school is your top choice.

How does your family feel about you attending veterinary school? Do you have a strong support system?

"My family is incredibly proud of me for attending veterinarian school and is ready to support me mentally and emotionally over the next four years. I know success at Auburn University will require all my time and effort, and I am ready to take on this challenge. If I'm fortunate enough to be accepted here, my two sisters and their families are very close in proximity, and I'd get to spend holidays with them."

Four years of success in Auburn University's veterinary medicine program requires the ultimate commitment of time and effort. Your interviewers need to know that you would have the required support for your heavy and challenging workload if you were accepted into their program.

Openly and honestly discuss your support system and how your family and friends express their excitement for your future career. Reiterate that you know the commitment success in Auburn University's program will take, and explain that your close family is ready to support you. You can also mention anyone in your family who may have had a similar path in the veterinary medicine industry.

Why are you choosing veterinary medicine over other medical professions?

"I wanted to pursue a career in the medical field, but I knew there were many rewarding professions. I chose veterinary medicine because I have experienced firsthand how saving one's beloved pet can change a person's life. From a young age, our family has always had a cherished pet. It wasn't until I went with my mom to take our sick dog to the vet that I realized what an incredible gift it was to help alleviate the pain and discomfort. Our dog needed emergency surgery, and thanks to our veterinarian's keen attention and care, our beloved pet survived. This visit to the vet was a turning point for me, and I immediately knew I wanted to work in the animal-care industry. This experience prompted me to look further into veterinary medicine, specifically emergency animal care. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to learn more about animal care and help my future patients transform the health of their pets."

With so many career options available in healthcare, the interviewers would like to know precisely why you have chosen to pursue veterinarian medicine. Auburn University needs to ensure that the students they admit to their college of veterinary medicine have the passion and fire for the field; this question allows them to see that passion in you.

The more specific you can be in your response, the more genuine your reply will feel. When you think about veterinarian medicine compared to other healthcare areas, try to highlight what factors pushed you to focus on animal health. This question is an opportunity to tell a brief story of the factors that prompted your keen interest in animal-based medicine.

Has anyone in your life mentored or inspired you on this career path?

"My grandfather was a farmer, and the love and respect for animals of all shapes and sizes came at a young age for me. Helping to birth calves at a young age inspired a passion that I owe to him."

Completing the rigor of Auburn University's veterinary medicine school takes drive and determination. Knowing that your inspiration could have come from others, your interviewers want to hear you discuss who has inspired you on your career path to becoming a veterinarian.

Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, an author - anyone! Talk to the interviewers about who inspired your pursuit of veterinary medicine and why they were so influential.

Auburn University exercises great discernment when choosing applicants. What is your plan if you are not accepted into veterinary school this year?

"While I would be disappointed that I wasn't accepted on my first try, I wouldn't let it get me down. I would first request my interview packet to see where I may have struggled and take the year to improve in any deficient areas. Then, I'd diligently seek shadowing opportunities at a few local emergency vet hospitals to improve my skills before applying again at Auburn University next year."

Each year, Auburn University accepts only 130 students into their program out of an applicant pool of over 1,000 applicants. With an acceptance rate of just over 10%, your interviewers want to know that you have thought out all options and scenarios if you are not accepted to Auburn University. The way you answer this question will also show the interviewers that your interest in the field goes deeper than your acceptance into veterinarian school.

If you are not accepted, show that you will take a different path, perhaps into veterinarian pharma or military dog care. Or you can let the interviewers know that one rejection won't stop you at all! Talk about your plan to reapply if rejected. Whatever path you choose, you must show the interviewers you have confidence and drive. It'll take more than one rejection to keep you down!

"If I am not accepted this year in veterinary medicine I will definitely reapply next year. I would take this next year to improve any necessary requirements and prepare a better and stronger application. I am not a quitter and I am not going to quit the ultimate goal because of one rejection."

Tell us something that we would not know about you from reading your CV.

"I am an avid marathon runner and have traveled to 10 states in the last three years to compete in various races. I am a competitive individual and enjoy keeping fit. My competitive nature will benefit me as a student and future veterinarian. I will have a consistent drive to deliver my best work while showing an innate need to remain top-of-the-game as an animal care provider."

Given the high number of applicants and limited number of slots to enroll each year in their program, your interviewers at Auburn University are confident that they'll be admitting students with great academic records. Sometimes their admission decisions come down to the small details that distinguish some candidates. Your interviewers would like to know you apart from what is on your CV and school transcripts to gauge your fit with their program.

You are not obligated to discuss personal matters such as your relationship status. Stick with a couple of interesting facts to show the interviewers at Auburn University that you are a real person. Your answer should be unique so that you are a memorable candidate! At the end of your response, remember to connect the factors you discuss and how they will ensure that you are a stellar student and future veterinarian.

Tell us about an area of weakness you would like to improve while attending Auburn University's veterinary medicine school.

"I believe I could improve my written and verbal communication skills as I tend to be longer-winded than I would like to be at times. I enrolled in a week-long workshop this summer to become a more succinct written and verbal communicator. I know this will help me both during veterinary school here at Auburn University and throughout my career in practice."

Even though Auburn University will get the pick of the litter when it comes to the new students they admit into their program, your interviewers know there is no perfect student. With this question, your interviewing team wants to hear you discuss what you feel is your biggest weakness heading into vet school and what your plan will be to attack that weakness.

If possible, discuss a weakness that is not a core skill for your success as a veterinary medicine student at Auburn University. You can be candid in your answer, recognizing that you aren't great at something and acknowledging your need to improve. Be sure to have an action plan to improve this weakness.

What do you know about Auburn University, and what attracted you to our veterinary medicine program?

"As I researched schools to apply to, Auburn University's doctor of veterinary medicine program quickly jumped out to me! Your commitment to research, outreach, and service are all important to me as I learn over the next four years and throughout my career in practice. I'm excited to join an internationally renowned program that trains some of the best vets in the country."

The interviewers at Auburn University have likely seen hundreds of applicants, so a question like this is an opportunity for you to stand out. What your interview team is ideally looking to hear is that you see yourself as a good fit for the program and that it will ultimately help you reach your career goals.

If you are lucky enough to land an interview at the Auburn University veterinary school, make some effort to research the school and the DVM program. You don't need to be an expert on their entire history, but you do need to be knowledgeable about their programs, culture, and recent accolades. Start by searching their website and take special note of any recent news articles, events, or contributions they have made to the community or student body. Identify their mission and values to be clear on what they stand for.

If you could meet anyone in the history of veterinary medicine, who would you choose and why?

"If I could meet anyone in the history of veterinary medicine, I would meet Dr. Sophia Yin. She was a trailblazer in force-free and positive reinforcement training for dogs. She developed many admirable methods and training options for veterinarians and pet owners."

At likely a few points during your interview with the Auburn University veterinary medicine school, your interviewers will ask some questions to understand your true passion for the field. When asked about a figure in the history of veterinary medicine, speak knowledgeably on one of the key influencers in the field's history.

This is more of a personal interest question, and you cannot give a wrong answer here. Think back to any of the founding fathers (and mothers!) of animal medicine and try to discuss someone with a story that resonates with you. It's a great idea to think of the most burning question you would have for that individual. Add passion to your answer so the interviewers can sense your interest.

What do you feel is the single most important quality a veterinarian should possess?

"I believe that the most important quality for a veterinarian to possess is empathy. A vet with empathy will always understand the importance of a pet's companionship. They will treat all attending staff respectfully and will dedicate themselves to improving their craft. I work hard to build my empathy levels daily by broadening my viewpoint on numerous issues, putting myself in the shoes of others whenever possible, and working to never compare one person's decisions with what I believe to be right or wrong."

Successful veterinarians possess several skills and qualities that appeal to the care of animals and working with people. With this question, your interviewers at Auburn University want to see that you have some insight into the desired qualities and characteristics of a veterinarian and that you possess the quality you discuss.

This question is an opportunity to give a unique answer, so try to dig deeper than 'good communication skills' or 'strong attention to detail.' Some great things to consider discussing are great decision-making skills, excellent interpersonal skills, manual dexterity skills, and advanced problem-solving skills. No matter your answer, be sure to display your ability to bring this quality to Auburn University's program.

Why should we accept you over another veterinary student with the same qualifications?

"I'm confident that my work ethic and drive to succeed set me apart from my peers. As you can see from my resume, I've been preparing for a career as a Veterinarian from a very young age. My volunteer work and experience as a tech in an emergency center have helped me develop advanced skills in animal care, and I'm ready to hit the ground running during my first year at Auburn University."

The interviewers want to hear unique qualities and statements that make you stand out from the other students wishing to attend Auburn University. With a large applicant pool of very well-qualified candidates, sometimes their decisions on who to admit to their program come down to small things like being a great cultural fit or having the soft skills required for success as a Veterinarian.

Put yourself in the shoes of your interviewers. All the candidates have stellar grades, the drive to succeed, and the potential to be renowned Auburn University alumni. Discuss the primary reason to choose YOU over everyone else. Some things that could make you a stand-out candidate include recent volunteer work, an existing connection to the faculty or facility, a memorable and personal story of struggle and triumph, an additional degree/diploma/certification, or proof that you continually focus on personal and professional development.

At Auburn University, we want students with a true passion for veterinary medicine. What appeals to you most about working in veterinary sciences?

"During my high school years, my family encouraged me to volunteer in my community, and I spent countless hours at our local humane society as a volunteer. I walked dogs, cleaned kennels, and fed the pets. This experience helped grow my passion for their care. I want to become a Vet to change the lives of sick pets and their owners."

The interviewers would like to understand what drives your pursuit of a career in the field of veterinary medicine. Your core passion will keep you going on the toughest days at Auburn University. For the interviewers to understand how to motivate you, they need to know what fires you up about a future career as a Veterinarian.

It is okay to share a personal story when answering this question. Perhaps you can discuss what initiated your interest in attending veterinary school. Whatever drives you, make sure the interviewers can feel your passion!

"There are many factors that drive my passion for this field, forever. But, if I had to pick one on the list it will definitely be the fact of being the crucial key to the treatment and rehabilitation of an animal. It is extremely gratifying for me to watch the positive changes in a patient in which came in poor conditions and the final results are beautiful."

Tell us about your overall academic performance so far. Where did you excel, and where do you feel you could have improved?

"I am very proud of my achievements during my undergraduate education. Those courses added so much value to my graduate program. My best courses included organic chemistry and my experimental biology lab courses. My biggest weakness was my time management skills. I overextended myself last semester with volunteer opportunities, and my study time suffered slightly. Now that I have identified the reason behind my time management challenges, I will only see improvement moving forward as a veterinary medicine student."

The interviewer team at Auburn University wants to know how your undergraduate program has prepared you for attending veterinary school at Auburn University. While they will have your official transcripts and access to your grades and GPA, they need to hear you discuss your strong points and struggles.

Openly discuss what interested you the most during your undergraduate and where you had the biggest academic challenges. Talk about the hard work you put in to achieve your grades in your areas of difficulty. Now is also a great time to discuss other skills you learned that will guide your success in the DVM program at Auburn University. If you can, touch on your time management, creative thinking, writing, public speaking, and research skills.

How has your education up to this point influenced your decision to train as a veterinarian?

"From middle school and beyond, I was intrigued by and excelled in biology. An elective zoology class in my high school, taught by a great teacher, pushed me to choose a career as a veterinarian. My passion for the veterinary field continued to grow through my undergraduate program and put me here at Auburn University today."

At likely many points throughout your interview with the Auburn University veterinary medicine program, your interviewers will expect to hear about your influences for pursuing this career path. They want to hear much more than love for animals. With this question, they are probing for information on your previous education and studies and how they helped influence your choice.

When answering this question, focus on the part your education has played in your decision to become a vet. If you have had work experience or internships, take this opportunity to talk specifically about what you learned in the classroom that influenced your decision to apply for veterinary school at Auburn University.

Looking back at your undergraduate program, which class did you find the most challenging and why?

"While most of the sciences have always been strong for me, I had to put in some extra effort into the calculus and analytical geometry courses required in my pre-veterinary medicine program. I created a study group with some classmates. We worked as a team to help talk through new concepts, and it helped me to learn and grow in these areas and pass with flying colors."

Your Interviewers at Auburn University ask this question to gain a better understanding of your education and the challenges you faced during your time in your undergraduate program. They know that every veterinary student has an academic area or two that doesn't come as naturally to them, and they expect you to be honest.

When answering this question, focus on the subject that tested your abilities most. Interviewers want to know why you found it challenging and how you worked to improve. By being forthright in your answer, you'll give your interviewers a sense of your ability to work through a difficult area of focus in their veterinary medicine program.

Talk to us about your experience with and thoughts on handling blood and other fluids. You will be subject to difficult scenarios in your role as a veterinarian. How do you feel about this?

"I have never been a queasy individual, and I fully understand the types of cases I will see in my career as a veterinarian. I work part-time at our local emergency animal shelter and have seen many situations involving blood and saliva. Rather than think about the gore, I focus on the fact that it's a helpless animal who needs my help. I believe this mentality will get me through any gruesome or undesirable situation."

During your four years of veterinary training at Auburn University, your lab and clinical work will involve the harsh realities of providing care to animals. Your interviewers want to know that you can handle the sights and experiences you will face as a veterinarian.

You can keep your answer simple by discussing your ability to handle events involving animal blood and other bodily fluids. If you have direct, hands-on experience working with these materials, now is a great time to discuss it.

Walk us through your approach to studying for exams.

"I am a well-organized student and have created a plan that works well for me. When I prepare for an exam, I map out the content I need to learn and divide that content over the number of days I have to prepare. When I create a study calendar, I leave the final three days leading up to the exam to review the entire library of content. I am a big fan of study aids, as they work much better than simply reading and re-reading the materials. Aids such as flashcards are also much more helpful than highlighting my notes. I also create practice problems and, when possible, will pair up with a fellow student to test each other in written form or verbal lightning rounds. My approach has been successful, as reflected in my overall GPA during my undergraduate program."

The greater your academic performance during veterinary school, the better Auburn University's metrics will be. For this reason, your interviewers want to choose veterinary medicine students who will be diligent in their studies and perform well on exams. They ask this question to hear you directly talk about your approach to preparing for and succeeding in your exams.

Perhaps you create your own study aids. Maybe you prefer to prepare for exams in a group setting. Whatever your approach, walk the interviewers through your process with as much detail as possible. Be sure to highlight how this approach has helped you through your high school and undergraduate programs and what you learned along the way to help improve your ability to master exams.

Studying at veterinarian school will require dedication and commitment to your work. How will you ensure you remain motivated to your studies?

"I have always been a dedicated student, so I know that remaining dedicated to my school work would not be an issue while in vet school. Staying busy and learning new information have always been things that I enjoy. I am an extremely goal-oriented learner and keep a detailed calendar and planner. Some of my most challenging classes in undergrad ended up becoming my favorite classes. A bonus was that these were classes where I gained the most knowledge to bring to use in Auburn University's veterinary medicine program."

Four years of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at Auburn University will require a time commitment and dedication, unlike any other efforts you have put forth up to this point in your life. Your interview team asks this question to ensure you have considered, and are prepared for, the level of work you will be committing to graduate from their program.

When you answer this question, be honest, but keep your audience in mind. This is a great time to discuss your passion and dedication to a future in veterinary medicine. But you'll also want to go beyond that in describing the specific methods that keep you focused on your school work.

How would you react if you discovered a classmate at Auburn University cheating?

"An honorable person will do what is right even when nobody is looking. The veterinary industry deserves only honorable graduates. I would immediately tell a faculty member at Auburn University if I found a classmate cheating."

Cheating in veterinary school can happen, and Auburn University needs to know that the students they admit have a high degree of academic integrity. This honesty-based question tests your character and highlights how you deal with awkward or uncomfortable situations.

If you have found yourself in a situation like this, you can draw on that story for your reply. Be careful not to throw anyone under the bus, as you can rarely recover from unsavory behavior like that in an interview. Express that you would immediately address any suspected cheating in your program during your time at Auburn University.

As a veterinarian, you will be faced with the death of people's beloved pets on a frequent basis. How will you professionally cope with this reality?

"I'm ready for this reality of the job as a veterinarian. Pet and animal ownership is a blessing, and the short life spans of most pets compared to their humans make a pet's death very difficult for most. I will always be an empathetic vet who communicates clearly with owners and educates them on the best decision for their pets. Discussing situations with colleagues would be essential to ensure my mental health."

After the loss of a patient, veterinarians often experience feelings of sadness, anxiety, guilt, and self-doubt. During your time at Auburn University, you may be exposed to the loss of an animal's life for the first time. With this question, your interviewers want to know that you understand that facing death and loss is a workplace reality for a veterinarian.

Assure the interviewers that you are capable of handling this difficult reality regularly. As you answer, you'll want to highlight your coping skills to handle the situation and the empathetic approach you will have with the people that lose a loved pet.

How do you plan to cope with the immense workload and expectations of attending veterinarian school?

"I have formed a two-pronged plan to tackle the stressors that may occur during veterinarian school. These three approaches will address my academic stress and the emotional strain of adjusting to my new surroundings as I relocate to Alabama. For academic stress, I plan to create a study schedule that I will stick to closely. I will join study groups to help me gain a broader perspective from others, and I have made arrangements for a part-time tutor if needed. For the strain that will result from uprooting myself, I plan to join a couple of university clubs to get to know other students and make new friends, avoiding feelings of loneliness. I also plan to Facetime my family every week to prevent myself from feeling homesick."

Attending veterinarian school at Auburn University is a highly involved commitment, and the interviewers want to see evidence that you are ready to handle the expectations ahead. Not only will you be starting veterinarian school, but there is a chance you will be relocating to Auburn, Alabama to attend. You may also have financial stressors on your mind as you enter this new commitment.

Discuss in detail how you plan to remain emotionally grounded as you enter this challenging (yet, rewarding!) time in your life. Rather than shy away from the fact that the next four years will require a great deal of commitment from you, reiterate to your interviewers that you are willing and ready to take on this challenge.

Auburn University Veterinary Medicine Interview Questions

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1. What questions do you have for us about Auburn University?
2. How do you respond to feedback and criticism on your work? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?
3. What achievement are you most proud of so far on your path to veterinary school?
4. How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?
5. Is there a specific area you wish to work in as a vet? Do you have any aspirations to work outside of a standard practice?
6. At Auburn University, we believe in the continual development of our students, both professionally and personally. What is your self-development plan during vet school?
7. Are you interested in opening your own animal clinic one day? What are your business aspirations?
8. What is your favorite area of veterinary medicine so far? Which is your least favorite? Why?
9. What are your thoughts on alternative medicine for animals? Which aspects do you agree and disagree with?
10. As a future veterinarian, how do you plan to use your role to benefit members of your community? Do you think volunteering is important?
11. What issues do you think the field of veterinary medicine will face in the years to come?
12. Have you been reading any veterinary sciences newspapers, journals, or publications to stay in touch with new medical discoveries and current events?
13. How well do you think you have performed in this interview today?
14. Veterinary school is expensive. Have you made a solid financial plan for tuition costs at Auburn University?
15. What other schools have you applied to, and where does Auburn University rank?
16. How does your family feel about you attending veterinary school? Do you have a strong support system?
17. Why are you choosing veterinary medicine over other medical professions?
18. Has anyone in your life mentored or inspired you on this career path?
19. Auburn University exercises great discernment when choosing applicants. What is your plan if you are not accepted into veterinary school this year?
20. Tell us something that we would not know about you from reading your CV.
21. Tell us about an area of weakness you would like to improve while attending Auburn University's veterinary medicine school.
22. What do you know about Auburn University, and what attracted you to our veterinary medicine program?
23. If you could meet anyone in the history of veterinary medicine, who would you choose and why?
24. What do you feel is the single most important quality a veterinarian should possess?
25. Why should we accept you over another veterinary student with the same qualifications?
26. At Auburn University, we want students with a true passion for veterinary medicine. What appeals to you most about working in veterinary sciences?
27. Tell us about your overall academic performance so far. Where did you excel, and where do you feel you could have improved?
28. How has your education up to this point influenced your decision to train as a veterinarian?
29. Looking back at your undergraduate program, which class did you find the most challenging and why?
30. Talk to us about your experience with and thoughts on handling blood and other fluids. You will be subject to difficult scenarios in your role as a veterinarian. How do you feel about this?
31. Walk us through your approach to studying for exams.
32. Studying at veterinarian school will require dedication and commitment to your work. How will you ensure you remain motivated to your studies?
33. How would you react if you discovered a classmate at Auburn University cheating?
34. As a veterinarian, you will be faced with the death of people's beloved pets on a frequent basis. How will you professionally cope with this reality?
35. How do you plan to cope with the immense workload and expectations of attending veterinarian school?

Auburn University Veterinary Medicine Interview Questions

1. What questions do you have for us about Auburn University?

2. How do you respond to feedback and criticism on your work? Describe a situation where your work was criticized. What was your immediate reaction to the situation?

3. What achievement are you most proud of so far on your path to veterinary school?

4. How do setbacks emotionally affect you and your work?

5. Is there a specific area you wish to work in as a vet? Do you have any aspirations to work outside of a standard practice?

6. At Auburn University, we believe in the continual development of our students, both professionally and personally. What is your self-development plan during vet school?

7. Are you interested in opening your own animal clinic one day? What are your business aspirations?

8. What is your favorite area of veterinary medicine so far? Which is your least favorite? Why?

9. What are your thoughts on alternative medicine for animals? Which aspects do you agree and disagree with?

10. As a future veterinarian, how do you plan to use your role to benefit members of your community? Do you think volunteering is important?

11. What issues do you think the field of veterinary medicine will face in the years to come?

12. Have you been reading any veterinary sciences newspapers, journals, or publications to stay in touch with new medical discoveries and current events?

13. How well do you think you have performed in this interview today?

14. Veterinary school is expensive. Have you made a solid financial plan for tuition costs at Auburn University?

15. What other schools have you applied to, and where does Auburn University rank?

16. How does your family feel about you attending veterinary school? Do you have a strong support system?

17. Why are you choosing veterinary medicine over other medical professions?

18. Has anyone in your life mentored or inspired you on this career path?

19. Auburn University exercises great discernment when choosing applicants. What is your plan if you are not accepted into veterinary school this year?

20. Tell us something that we would not know about you from reading your CV.

21. Tell us about an area of weakness you would like to improve while attending Auburn University's veterinary medicine school.

22. What do you know about Auburn University, and what attracted you to our veterinary medicine program?

23. If you could meet anyone in the history of veterinary medicine, who would you choose and why?

24. What do you feel is the single most important quality a veterinarian should possess?

25. Why should we accept you over another veterinary student with the same qualifications?

26. At Auburn University, we want students with a true passion for veterinary medicine. What appeals to you most about working in veterinary sciences?

27. Tell us about your overall academic performance so far. Where did you excel, and where do you feel you could have improved?

28. How has your education up to this point influenced your decision to train as a veterinarian?

29. Looking back at your undergraduate program, which class did you find the most challenging and why?

30. Talk to us about your experience with and thoughts on handling blood and other fluids. You will be subject to difficult scenarios in your role as a veterinarian. How do you feel about this?

31. Walk us through your approach to studying for exams.

32. Studying at veterinarian school will require dedication and commitment to your work. How will you ensure you remain motivated to your studies?

33. How would you react if you discovered a classmate at Auburn University cheating?

34. As a veterinarian, you will be faced with the death of people's beloved pets on a frequent basis. How will you professionally cope with this reality?

35. How do you plan to cope with the immense workload and expectations of attending veterinarian school?