Campus Connection: Response from Ashley Zelenka, Kansas State University

While veterinary students generally enter their studies with a clear vision of the profession and the determination to achieve their academic and professional goals, they also encounter some eye-opening realities, some positive and some negative.
So, with that in mind here is the question our panel of veterinary students and recent DVM graduates address this month:
What aspect(s) of veterinary practice has surprised you most, either positively or negatively, as you learn more about your career choice?
Response from Ashley Zelenka, Kansas State University
One aspect that has continued to surprise me is the number of skills I have acquired outside of the classroom. I have also come to appreciate the benefits of having good mentors, who are willing to take the time to either explain or show me how a certain procedure should be done. It is comforting knowing that I have support from veterinarians who have been through vet school and can relate to the struggles students experience throughout the journey.
Read previous responses from our panel of students and recent graduates:
Response from Dr. Kristy Shaw, 2018 graduate, Ohio State University
Response from Jennifer Lantzer, North Carolina State University
Response from Dr. Carling Matejka, 2018 graduate, University of Calgary
Response from Scout Josey, University of Georgia
Response from Dr. Olivia Myers, 2018 graduate, North Carolina State University
Response from Nicholas Shen, Lincoln Memorial University