52 Veterinarian School Interview Questions ( +Answers)

1.

How has your education to date influenced your decision to train as a Veterinarian?

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.

Ryan's Answer

"I consider my education very relevant to my choice of career. I had always taken additional courses in veterinary studies, however, I was lucky enough to enroll onto a work experience placement, to gain employability skills, which was within the veterinary industry, and I thoroughly enjoyed the placement and this influenced my decision."

Anonymous Answer

"I have always envisioned myself pursuing a career in veterinary medicine, and my academic endeavors, specifically my undergraduate studies in animal science, have only added to knowledge and understanding of the field. Studying animal science in college expanded my interest in species. My undergraduate studies focused heavily on large animals and agricultural practices, and this has given me a solid foundation of ethics and public health initiatives within veterinary medicine."

Rachelle's Answer

Very well said! You take the interviewer through a quick yet informative educational journey.

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Anonymous Answer

"Microbial Pathogenesis was applicable to my experience in small animal medicine. The class emphasized the importance of aseptic technique during surgery, due to the existence of dangerous bacteria that have quickly evolved to resist antibiotics and infect the body. Behavioral analysis class piqued my interest in the behavioral aspects of small animal medicine. Organic chemistry also wired my brain to think more critically to successfully diagnose patients in the future."

Rachelle's Answer

This is awesome! Your answer is highly specific, and you do a great job bringing your interests to life for the interviewer.

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2.

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?

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.

Ryan's Answer

"If the dog is unable to feed all of her puppies it would be essential for the vet to step in and provide assistance to prevent the puppies from undernourishment. Any puppies that appear restless and do not have fat tummies will benefit from supplemental feeding 1-3 times a day"

Anonymous Answer

"I have to provide a service of care for the animals, and so I have to be able to help the mother feed the puppies that she is unable to. If they are undernourished, the puppies will be restless and have flat stomachs."

Rachelle's Answer

Great job distinguishing those that are undernourished. For the second part of the question, try to be more specific on the steps you would take to help.

"If I had a situation where the puppies were undernourished, I would take steps to feed the puppies a commercial canine milk replacer. I would feed the puppies by bottle or syringe every few hours. I believe that the best tell-tale sign of a hungry puppy is restlessness and a flat stomach."

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Anonymous Answer

"It is understanding that most dogs give birth to large litters there have been many developmental supplements to assist the puppies who can't latch or are undernourished or who are rejected by the mother, such as formula and being bottle-fed. I would recommend getting puppy formula and bottle feeding the puppies that have flat bellies and those who are visibly smaller than the rest three times a day."

Rachelle's Answer

Great approach! You are aware of the options available to you, and your answer shows a strong level of observation.

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3.

Studying at Veterinarian School will require dedication and commitment to your workload. How will you ensure you remain motivated to your studies?

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?

Ryan's Answer

"I am prepared for the high workload that will come with this course, however knowing that I will gain my qualification as a Veterinarian at the end of it is motivation in itself to me. I do, however, also like to set myself weekly goals and mark them on a task board so I can visually see my progress also."

Anonymous Answer

"Having the end goal of being a veterinarian will most definitely keep me motivated. I can handle the workload by keeping organized using a planner, for example, to keep track of the work I need to complete day to day."

Rachelle's Answer

This question is referring more to how you will remain motivated rather than organized. Try to focus on action steps such as changing your scenery when things become dull, taking advantage of new experiences, or taking on group work.

"I feel ready for the commitment and dedication required of me during veterinarian school. To maintain motivation, I plan to take on more group-work where I can work with the energy of others; try a new study space for a change of scenery, or open myself up to new experiences to keep my environment fresh."

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Anonymous Answer

"I plan on keeping a planner so I can keep track of deadlines and goals. I will write larger overall goals for veterinary school and break them up into manageable steps in my planner. I will use positive reinforcement, rewarding myself for achieving these steps."

Rachelle's Answer

These are all excellent forms of motivation. When it comes to positive reinforcement, what rewards will you explore for your achievements?

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4.

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?

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.

Ryan's Answer

"I have the experience and the attitude to excel in this position. I have almost two years of veterinary experience, which I have gained in collaboration with my school, where I was exposed to all aspects of Veterinary Medicine and worked so hard the first year that they invited me back for a second summer and gave me more responsibilities. I have a reputation for getting things done -- and with a smile on my face. That's because I love working in the Veterinary industry and am excited to learn and get experience in every way possible."

Anonymous Answer

"One of the things that makes me unique is my dedication to serve my community. I grew up in the Appalachian region, resources are limited. I volunteered most of my time to our school backpack program that provides dinner for students whose parents can't afford to feed them at dinner. I also volunteered at my college with the local high school tutoring children. I hope to continue community service projects into vet school."

Rachelle's Answer

Excellent response! Most decision-makers prefer applicants with a background in volunteering, and yours is very strong. You show a lot of heart, which is great. If you have any academic achievements that make you a stand-out candidate, it would be beneficial to add these in.

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Anonymous Answer

"I believe that I am a prime candidate for vet school because of my experience, drive-in academics, and passion for always learning. I want to contribute to research and discoveries throughout my career. Since I graduated from school in May, I have worked a full-time job as a veterinary assistant, and I am continuing to learn new techniques every day. Between my full-time job and experience gained in other hospitals in collaboration with school, I have had prime exposure to the veterinary world. I strive to remain calm, positive, and passionate during my work."

Rachelle's Answer

Your experiences thus far will be a very valuable addition to your application. This is a very well-rounded answer, touching on the soft and hard skills you will bring to the school.

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5.

What was your motivation for wanting to be a Vet? Have you always had a love of animals?

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?

Ryan's Answer

"I have always wanted to work as a vet, ever since I was a child. I, obviously, have a huge love for animals and wildlife and think that setting my career goal from a young age has kept me focused and aligned to my future employment choices. My father is also a vet and so I think following in his footsteps is a good choice"

Anonymous Answer

"I grew up around animals; my mother always made sure we took in stray cats. My desire to work with animals began with elephants. My heritage in India always seemed to follow me, and I found myself wanting to study these magnificent creatures. I was involved in research in Thailand with elephants, where I met a wildlife veterinarian who inspired me to incorporate my passion for animals with my interest in medicine."

Rachelle's Answer

This is wonderful inspiration, indeed! Nice answer.

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Anonymous Answer

"I always had a love for animals and wanted to work with them even before I knew it was work. As a kid growing up, we always had animals, went to zoos, and watched animal planet. I was also lucky enough to grow up with a veterinarian as a mother. I made every day I could take your kid to work day to get a glimpse at what she was doing. No other career option could ever compare, working with animals and helping them was my calling, and I have spent the last few years making it a reality."

Rachelle's Answer

It is terrific that you are taking on a similar career to your mother; how exciting! You give a nice overview here, bringing your passion for animals to the forefront.

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Veterinarian School

52 Interview Questions & Answers