List of 52 Veterinarian School Interview Questions & Answers
1.
How would you handle a customer who had conflicting opinions and views on the required treatment of an animal?
How to Answer
When answering a question focused on conflict and differing opinions it is important to consider what the interviewer is looking for from your response. Generally, the interviewer is asking this question to gain an understanding of how you handle conflicting situations, but more specifically when it comes to your skills and experience within your profession. The main thing to remember is you are the expert in your field, and you must remain professional at all times, so try to get this across in your answer.
1st Answer Example
"If I was presented with a situation where a customer had differing opinions on the treatment of an animal I would listen to their opinion, showing I was understanding their concerns or reasoning, before explaining the correct and professional way of proceeding (along with the reasoning behind this choice). Best practice is useful to help customers understand decisions so I would ensure they fully understand the reason behind the choice being made, and would ensure I was professional at all times."
Community Answer
"These situations are bound to occur, and I have experienced customers who do not entirely agree with the suggested treatment plan. As a veterinarian, I would trust the knowledge I have from school and experience. Of course, I would always keep an open mind when it came to being receptive to new knowledge in the veterinary world. To the customer, I would give the reasons for my plan of treatment and explain all of the benefits. I would be willing to listen to their opinions and be able to explain why I believe my treatment plan is best. Of course, I would do this in the most professional way possible while helping the customer understand the reasoning behind my plan."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
You sound very confident in your ability to handle situations like this. It's a great point you make about being open-minded and receptive to new knowledge from reputable sources.
2.
In your opinion, what do you think would be the most difficult situation you could face as a Vet? Justify your answer.
How to Answer
Interviewers are asking this question to establish your thoughts and views on the difficult situations vets encounter within their role. There is no wrong or right answer to this question, however, it is recommended that you look into, or consider some challenging situations prior to an interview, such as death/loss of an animal, mistreatment etc.
1st Answer Example
"For me, I think facing a situation that involved animal mistreatment or cruelty would be one of the most difficult things to encounter, purely because of my love and respect towards animals. I will find it difficult to understand how someone could mistreat animals, and am sure these types of situations can be very testing."
Community Answer
"That would be facing the situation of having to put a healthy animal down because the owners cannot afford to look after it but having to respect the decisions of the owners."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Solid answer! I have reworked the working for you.
"The most difficult situation that I could face as a vet would be having to put a healthy animal for the convenience of the owners. This topic is a controversial one that I find difficult to understand. Unfortunately, animals are considered property so, in my region, I would have to oblige."
3.
Talk me through the research you have done prior to applying for this course. How do you know this course is right for you?
How to Answer
When applying to Veterinary School you should have fully considered your options and have researched the school, course content and future career in detail. When asking this question, interviewers are looking for clarification that you have considered the pros/cons of the role and you will need to justify your reasons for choosing to proceed.
1st Answer Example
"Prior to applying for Veterinary School I fully researched my options for my future career choices and listed the entry requirements, pros, and cons for each course. I have always had a keen interest in pursuing veterinary medicine, but I made sure I read through reviews and researched fully before making my final decision. I feel this course is right for me as I have a love of animals and think any career which enables you to make a difference to both wildlife and common pets would be so rewarding"
Community Answer
"Before pursuing veterinary medicine as my ultimate career goal, I did much research on schools, requirements, and post-graduation debt and career success. There is nothing else I see myself doing. With the support of my family and my head-strong dedication to my studies, I know that I can be a successful veterinary professional."
Written by an Anonymous User
Our Professional Interview Coach
Rachelle Enns Reviewed the Above Answer
Nicely said! Your dedication and desire for this career path genuinely shine through.
4.
What experience have you had, if any, working within a farm environment? What did you learn from this experience?
How to Answer
Working as a vet includes more than practice work, and you may be required to visit animals within their rural/natural environment. The interviewer is asking this question to ascertain if you have any experience working outside of a standard surgery. If you have not had this experience, be honest rather than untruthful, but ensure the interviewer is aware you would gladly take experience in this area.
5.
Talk me through any clinical experiences you have had, if any. What exactly you did, and what you learnt from it.
How to Answer
Work experience is an important part of an interview and the interviewer will usually ask you to explain any experience you have had, either through your studies, or personally, within the industry you wish to enter. Be specific with your responses, and explain how the experience you gained will be valuable within your chosen career.
6.
If I had to ask your previous employer to describe your work ethic to me, what do you think they would say, and why?
How to Answer
This question is asked to assess your relationships with coworkers and how you manage your role within a functional team. Whereas other questions evaluate your fit with the required job duties, this job interview question targets your fit within the team structure and your attitude to work. It centers on the behaviors you demonstrate and how others feel your behaviors shape your work output.
7.
What was your motivation for wanting to be a Vet? Have you always had a love of animals?
How to Answer
The interview is asking this question to establish your reasons for wanting to work within veterinary medicine. When answering this question it is important that you explain what influences you have had when making your decision, is it a family profession? have you always wanted to work in this industry?
8.
Tell me about a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get a job done. What was the reason behind this, and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
If your interviewer asks you to give an example of a time that you felt you went above and beyond the call of duty, they are not necessarily interested in the example itself. Instead, they want to ensure that you are the type of worker that will work hard to get the job done properly, rather than just to get the job done. Additionally, they want to know what your definition of 'going above and beyond' is. Because the interviewer is most interested in ensuring that you have the quality they are looking for, your answer should focus on that quality. In this case, you should focus on dedication and hard work.
9.
What does delegation mean to you?
How to Answer
Delegation is an essential management skill, definitely one of the very most important. The interviewer wants to know if understand the importance of delegation and whether or not it's something you're capable of doing effectively.
10.
Give me an example of a time when you have been required to work closely with your colleagues to keep them motivated. Why was this important, and was it successful?
How to Answer
Employers are typically interested in assessing how well co-workers and clients would respond to you if you were hired, and how you would interact with them. This is a situational interview question, and there is no wrong or right answer. One strategy for your response is to share an anecdote to demonstrate the motivational techniques you have used in the past.
11.
Give an example of a time when you have had to deal with an irate customer or co-worker. How did you handle the situation, and what did you learn from it?
How to Answer
Handling irate customers is not a simple matter. No matter how frustrated or angry you are, you will need to show professionalism when dealing with these customers. For all you know, the customer may be having a bad day or a difficult time in his life. In any case, an interviewer will want to know how you will deal with irate customers. Answering this interview question requires confidence and preparation.
12.
Why do you think it is important to be able to use your initiative within the role of Veterinarian?
How to Answer
When answering this question consider situations that you may be involved in, as a vet, that will require you to think on your feet in stressful or pressurized environments. Vets need to be able to use their initiative, as this may prevent an animal from death or long-term suffering.
13.
Give an example of a time when you have failed to reach a target or achievement. How did you handle this, and move forward?
How to Answer
This is a difficult question as it initially appears to be negative. Focus on something outside your work or something that happened whilst at work that you later rectified. Do not admit to any personal quality that might hamper job performance, such as procrastination, laziness or lack of concentration. Choose something that will not reflect badly on your ability to perform in the given position, such as one that took place early in your career. Interviewers don't ask this question to see you squirm, they want to know how you handle setbacks--so get to the part where you're dealing with the failure as quickly as possible.
14.
How would you handle the situation if you saw one of your classmates cheating during the course? What would you say, and who would you address it to?
How to Answer
This is an ethically based question and is requiring you to consider the dilemma, and how you would handle it. Many employers include ethical questions as part of their interview process and it can be tricky to determine how to best answer these types of questions. Medical school interviews are also known for their ethical questions to determine the interviewee's ethical decision making. It can be helpful to first review different ethical interview questions so you have a good sense of what these questions are like and then practice responding so you are better prepared in your interview.
15.
What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example.
How to Answer
There are many other variations on this question and it is a very common interview topic. From the interviewer's perspective, the idea is to find out about the candidate's conflict management ability and general interpersonal skills.
16.
Being a Vet will require you to think on your feet and fact-find information if needed. How will you ensure you remain abreast of relevant information required to perform your role?
How to Answer
Working as a veterinarian requires consistent learning and development to remain abreast with current and future legislation and laws, as well as changes to processes and treatments. The interviewer is asking this question to ensure you are aware of the need for self-development, and the various methods of learning you will need to undertake to remain professional.
17.
Give me an example of a time when you have missed an obvious solution to a problem. How were you made aware of it, and how did you rectify it? What did you learn from this situation?
How to Answer
There is a saying that it isn't your mistakes that define you, but how you deal with them. If you get a question like this, don't feel as though you can't answer. Everyone makes a mistake, so be honest about it but then ensure that you explain what you learnt from the experience. Is there anything you would do differently for example?
18.
What is your favourite animal, and why?
How to Answer
To be a vet you obviously need to have an interest and love of animals. This question is likely to be used as an icebreaker to an interview, to put you at ease and start the conversation flowing. There is no assessment or grading to this answer so be honest.
19.
In your opinion what do you see as the least appealing part of a career within Veterinary Medicine?
How to Answer
This is often a difficult question to answer during an interview as the interviewer is asking you to provide a negative answer. It is better to focus on a task-based answer, rather than company politics or people. Consider making a list of tasks you think may be difficult for vets to complete (e.g putting an animal to sleep) and prepare yourself for this question.
20.
What do you think are the worst parts about working for a private practice? And why?
How to Answer
The interviewer here is challenging your understanding and knowledge regarding the differing options available to vets (working in either a private or corporate practice) Prior to your interview it is recommended to complete some research on the difference between the two environments so that you have a full understanding of how they may differ. When answering this question, you should try and put yourself into the shoes of the vet, and focus on a business based response.
21.
You will be required to provide knowledgeable answers and advice to your clients within the role of Veterinarian. How do you anticipate enhancing your knowledge and skills once qualified?
How to Answer
Working as a veterinarian requires consistent learning and development to remain abreast with current and future legislation and laws, as well as changes to processes and treatments. The interviewer is asking this question to ensure you are aware of the need for self-development, and the various methods of learning you will need to undertake to remain professional.
22.
What skills and behaviours do you feel are important in order to be a successful Vet?
How to Answer
A great veterinarian is held in the highest regard by animal lovers and pet owners. They provide much needed preventative and emergency care to beloved dogs, cats, horses, and other animals. This question is asking you to really think about "what makes a good vet" and list the main skills and behaviours you feel they need in order to be successful.
23.
What traits do you possess that make you qualified to be admitted into Veterinary School?
How to Answer
Interviewers often ask this question to assess your suitability and fit to the study programme. They are looking for you to critically analyze your skills and behaviors, and explain how you feel your best qualities will be of benefit to the course you are undertaking.
24.
In your opinion, what do you think is the biggest challenge the veterinary industry faces currently, and why do you think this is?
How to Answer
This is a question that is asking for your personal opinion, therefore there is no right or wrong answer to this. The interviewer is looking for understanding that you are aware of the challenges that face the industry currently, and the potential impact this could have in the future. Prior to interview it is recommended to research into this question, as it is a common question to be asked.
25.
What ethical dilemmas do you think you may face as a veterinarian? How would you handle these?
How to Answer
Being a vet you will be faced with ethical and moral dilemmas that require tackling professionally, and therefore it is essential that you research into this to ensure that you feel comfortable with some of the common situations that may present themselves. Researching prior to interview will show the interviewer that you have taken the time to look into this area, and also have the knowledge and understanding to handle a situation professionally.
26.
Tell me about a time when you have had to use empathy to help a colleague or client through a difficult situation? Why was this important, and how did you manage the situation?
How to Answer
When answering this question you want to show the interviewer you have the people skills and problem-solving skills needed to help satisfy the customer. Showing that you understand and appreciate their concerns, and are willing to let them voice this shows empathy. Your answer needs to show that you can assess the situation, fix the problem, and have both the customer and the employer come out on top.
27.
Imagine the situation. You are working within your role and have a female who gave birth to 9 puppies. She can't feed them all. What would you do? How would you distinguish those that are undernourished?
How to Answer
This is a situational question and is asking you to consider the most appropriate course of action. It is important prior to your interview that you research into some common veterinary situations in case you are presented with such a question. The interviewer is looking to assess your knowledge and understanding of the role.
28.
Tell me about a time when you have had to use your persuasion skills to influence someone's opinion. Why was this needed, and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
This question is commonly used in an interview process as working as a team and having disagreements is commonplace in a work environment. Given that indisputable fact, an important skill in almost any workplace is the ability to convince people to do something your way versus their way. Your interviewers will also want to make sure you go about doing this in a respectful and collaborative way. The 'my way or the highway' approach is usually not people are looking for.
29.
Give me a specific example of a time when you have used good judgement and logic in solving a problem. What was the process followed, and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
If asked this question the interviewers are looking for more than just your command of the procedures and protocols of the job. They are also evaluating exactly what you consider good judgment to be- and what your priorities and assumptions are when you apply logic to a situation. The goal with these questions is to demonstrate how you are able to manage difficult situations and resolve them. This means that whatever the situation was that led to your use of good judgment or logic- the emphasis should be on your actions and their favorable results.
30.
In your opinion should people be allowed to own exotic species? Justify your answer.
How to Answer
This question has no wrong or right answer, as the interviewer is looking for your personal opinion on the question, and for you to explain your reasoning behind your answer. With this sort of question, you need to fully consider your response, alongside the role you are applying for.
31.
Put yourself in the position of a qualified Vet. What would you do if you felt the animal you were treating may have been abused? What legal avenues would you pursue, if any?
How to Answer
This question is a situational-based question, asking you to answer as if you were the vet. In answering this question it is recommended that prior to your interview you research processes and procedures in relation to animal abuse so that you can show a knowledge and understanding of the role. This shows the interviewer that you understand the position and have researched the correct process that needs to be followed.
32.
Put yourself in the position of a qualified vet. What would you do if an animal was brought into the surgery, having been hit by a car, and the owner refuses to pay for treatment? Would you still treat the animal?
How to Answer
This question is a situational based question, asking you to answer as if you were the vet. In answering this question it is recommended that prior to your interview you research processes and procedures in relation to non-payment for treatment so that you can show a knowledge and understanding of the role. This shows the interviewer that you understand the position and have researched the correct process that needs to be followed.
33.
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?
How to Answer
The interviewer is questioning your future career choices and wishes to know if there is an area of specialism, within the veterinary industry, which appeals to you. This question is often useful for an interviewer to understand your future career aspirations, and will likely assist in guiding you through this process to reach them (should you be successful).
34.
How has your education to date influenced your decision to train as a Veterinarian?
How to Answer
The interviewer is probing for information on your previous education and studies, as well as whether you made practical, real-world connections between your academic studies and the world of work. When answering this question focus on what part your education has played in your decision to become a vet. If you have had work experience and/or internships, this is an opportunity to talk specifically about what you learned in the classroom that helped you in your decision.
35.
Why do you feel you are the best candidate for Veterinarian School? What can you bring to the school that makes you an ideal applicant?
How to Answer
This question is one of the most common questions to be asked during an interview process. You MUST be prepared with a concise summary of the top reasons to choose you. Even if your interviewer doesn't ask one of these questions in so many words, you should have an answer prepared and be looking for ways to communicate your top reasons throughout the interview process. With this question, your interviewer is asking you to sell yourself and your status as the best person for the position. In answering this question make sure you explain that: You can do the work and deliver exceptional results You will fit in beautifully and be a great addition to the team You possess a combination of skills and experience that make you stand out from the crowd.
36.
Studying at Veterinarian School will require dedication and commitment to your workload. How will you ensure you remain motivated to your studies?
How to Answer
The interviewer is asking this question to ensure you have considered and are prepared for the high levels of coursework you will be required to complete. When you answer this question, be honest -- but also keep your audience in mind. Will you use any specific methods to keep you focused, such as personal targets or an achievement board?
37.
In your opinion, what do you see as the most appealing part of a role in Veterinary Medicine?
How to Answer
This interview question is often intended to understand your view on the career and its perks. It is likely to be followed by the 'less appealing' part of the role. When answering this question it is recommended to show that you have a passion and general interest in the role, and be honest about the parts of the role that excites you.
38.
What is your opinion on using live animals to practice surgery?
How to Answer
This question is asking for your opinion, therefore it is recommended that prior to interview you research into laws that surround the use of live animals in schools, so that you have an understanding of the subject nature and outcomes. While there is no wrong or right answer here, considering the use of animals for study no longer happens, it is recommended to answer in favor of this change.
39.
What experience have you had working within Veterinary Medicine? What have you most enjoyed?
How to Answer
Interviewers often ask this question in order to gain a better insight into your career and work history. This question is asking you to explain your previous experience, if you have any, and then explain what areas you have most enjoyed. Try to focus on skills and specifics here, and think of examples which could be transferable into your new role, as this will show you have an understanding and experience of how your past career can be utilized further.
40.
Give me a specific example of a time when you have had to conform to a policy with which you did not agree. What happened and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
Prior to answering this question think about your choices, as this is a situational question that is looking to challenge. Did you not want to conform to the policy because it was unethical--but then you did? You may think of yourself as the martyr in that situation, but you'll just come across as someone who is OK with being unethical. That's not the image you want to project. Did you not want to conform because you knew best? Saying that you knew more than your previous boss is a bad tactical error in an interview because then you're badmouthing them--and that's always a no-no. The best way to handle this question is to understand that the interviewer wants to know how you would really react in a difficult situation. What's your communication style? Did you confront your boss? Did you avoid the whole discussion?
41.
Why do you think a career in Veterinary Medicine is for you? Do you have any other career aspirations if you are not accepted into Veterinary School?
How to Answer
When talking about why you think a career in veterinary medicine is for you, it is okay to talk about how you have a keen interest in the profession and this is a great way to get the experience you need. Simply saying that you like animals is not going to impress the interviewer because it will automatically be assumed that if you are entering this field that you like animals. Be specific and honest with your response. The interviewer also wants to challenge your commitment to the career, so when answering the second part of the question consider fully other options relevant to the profession which could offer an alternative route to Veterinary School.
42.
Tell me about a difficult situation you have had to face within your career to date. How did you handle it and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
One of the most common questions asked during an interview process is to describe a specific difficult work-related situation that you have faced in your previous job and how you handled it. This interview question is asked in order to evaluate your communication skills, your ability to solve problems/issues and your conflict resolution abilities (i.e. analytical skills).Try to remember some of the difficult/hard work situations that you have experienced, your answer should illustrate your abilities to deal with difficult situations effectively.
43.
Looking back at your previous education, which class did you find most challenging, and why?
How to Answer
Interviewers ask this question to gain a better understanding of your education and the challenges you faced during your time at school. When answering this question, think back to your school days and focus on a subject that you found tested your abilities the most, and was difficult for you to grasp. Interviewers want to know why you found it challenging and how you have improved in this area.
44.
Veterinary school can be an intensive, stressful experience at times. Can you tell me about a time where you have had to handle a pressurised situation? What happened and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
This is often a common question to be asked during an interview process. Interviewers understand that stress and pressure can be handled in many different ways. The interviewer does not want to hear that you never get stressed; after all, everyone feels stress at one time or another at work. Instead, the employer wants to see if you know how pressure affects you, and how you manage it.
45.
What are your opinions on the use of animals for Veterinary School? Do you think your opinions will change if you are accepted to the study programme?
How to Answer
This question is asking for your opinion, therefore it is recommended that prior to interview you research into laws that surround the use of live animals in schools, so that you have an understanding of the subject nature and outcomes. Whilst there is no wrong or right answer here, considering the use of animals for study no longer happens, it is recommended to answer in favour of this change. This question is asking for your opinion, therefore it is recommended that prior to interview you research into laws that surround the use of live animals in schools, so that you have an understanding of the subject nature and outcomes. Whilst there is no wrong or right answer here, considering the use of animals for study no longer happens, it is recommended to answer in favour of this change.
46.
What do you think are the best parts about working for a private practice? And why?
How to Answer
This question is asking for your personal opinion, however, prior to the interview, you should prepare for this question by researching the benefits of working for a private practice, so that you can gain an understanding of the differences between corporate and private workplaces.
47.
What are your long-term career aspirations? Where do you see yourself in 15 years?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to understand more about your career goals and how this position would fit into your grand plan. They care about your career goals because they want to hire someone who is motivated, proactive, and likely to stick around and work hard if hired. If succeeding in this role is important to you as part of your long-term career strategy, you are much more likely to perform well.
48.
How will you ensure you are financially stable to complete your studies at Veterinary School?
How to Answer
In order to be successful at Veterinary School interviewers will be looking for evidence to support your financial commitment to the course. When answering this question it would be beneficial to show how you intend to finance your studies, i.e monthly budget sheets, savings/investments, loans/grants. Interviewers are looking for individuals who can clearly show they have considered the financial aspect of the course.
49.
If you had to choose one area of specialism to work within, what would it be?
How to Answer
Vets may choose to specialize in various areas of veterinary medicine, which can include small animal medicine, small animal surgery, large animal medicine, welfare ethics and law, public health, cardiology, and orthopedics. The interviewer is looking to understand your main interests and aspirations for your veterinary career, and the areas of the industry you find most appealing.
50.
How do Animal Rights and Animal Welfare differ?
How to Answer
This is a knowledge-based question, and so the interviewer is looking for you to demonstrate your understanding of the industry by asking you a specific question to test your skills. It is therefore essential that prior to your interview you spend some time focusing on the role, and the wider picture to prepare yourself for questions such as this.
51.
Tell me about a time when a colleague you have been working with has made a mistake. What happened, and what steps did you take to rectify it?
How to Answer
At interviews, the best type of employee is the one that helps other employees succeed. When problems arise, employers want to see that you know how to deal with the problem and that you use your problem-solving skills to handle it yourself without being a tattle tale. That means that you have to choose an example that isn't too serious (ideally a mistake anyone but you could have made) and that you dealt with it in a way that the colleague would have appreciated.
52.
As a vet, do you have the right not to treat an animal? Explain the reasoning behind your answer.
How to Answer
This question is being asked by the interviewer to establish your knowledge of the veterinary industry. Prior to your interviewer, it is recommended to research fully so that you can confidently answer this question, with evidence to support your response.