Why do you think it is important to be able to use your initiative within the role of veterinarian?
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.
"It is important to be able to use your initiative as you may be presented with a difficult position or case that is out of your control and you will be required to set this right. You may have to devise alternative routes for treatment, or complete a task in a different way if the tools or assistance is not available."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Answers are not always going to be available to a veterinarian depending on the situation, for example in a stressful situation where an animal has been attacked and is bleeding profusely, you need to be able to think on your feet, stay calm, and organize the people around you to effectively treat the animal as quickly as possible.
Rachelle's Feedback
Very good response! I have reworded this just a touch.
"Answers may not always be readily available to a veterinarian, depending on the situation. For instance, in a stressful situation where an animal has been attacked and is bleeding profusely, a vet needs to be able to think on their feet, remain calm, and organize their workforce to ensure fast and effective treatment for the animal."
Anonymous Answer
As a veterinarian, there are many occasions where one must perform under a high-pressure situation and think quickly. Being able to think quickly and confidently can save an animal's life or at least prevent as much suffering as one can.
Rachelle's Feedback
Very good answer. It seems you are well prepared to work quickly and efficiently in this profession.
Anonymous Answer
As a vet, you are responsible for the treatment and welfare of your patient. So when presented with problems, you must do things in a logical order and think for yourself. You must be able to anticipate problems, be prepared for different outcomes, and lead a team or work individually when required.
Rachelle's Feedback
Absolutely correct! Your response shows a lot of insight when it comes to the initiative that will be required of you as a Veterinarian.
Anonymous Answer
When treating animals you must think of the animals' welfare first. This may require the ability to think logically in order to help treat the animal and help it to reach optimum health. Also under pressurized situations, a vet must be able to think for themselves in order to react and think clearly.
Amanda's Feedback
Good job! You explain why taking initiative is important to animal welfare. Now, take it a step further and talk about how initiative benefits you as a vet. For example, the initiative is important to help you lead a team well, continue to treat an animal when normal tools or treatments aren't available or investigate to better understand a complicated case.
Unlock all 54 Veterinary School questions
Unlock expert responses for questions admissions committees actually ask applicants.
Get Started