Working and talking with veterinarians, veterinary students, and veterinary technicians and staff is the best way to get a realistic picture of the profession. Veterinary medicine is a big commitment, academically, personally, and financially. A prospective veterinarian should be a good student with strong science, math, and communication skills.
A veterinarian must have compassion for both animals and people and possess strong communication skills, because every animal comes with a human. Veterinarians must be willing to advise clients on decisions that will have significant financial and emotional impact.
Above all, veterinary medicine is a people profession. Veterinarians help solidify and enhance the bond between people and their animals. This means essential skills for veterinarians include: leadership, compassion, conflict management, and resiliency.
