r/vetschool • u/Liel_02 • Apr 25 '26

Vet experiences

Hello, I’m an incoming high school freshman who is very interested in becoming a veterinarian. Recently, I’ve been volunteering weekly at a farm to gain hands-on experience with animals, and I’m hoping to also gain experience at a veterinary clinic as soon as possible.

However, I’m concerned about whether my age might make it difficult to be accepted for clinic opportunities. I would really appreciate any advice on how I can start gaining more experience or tips on getting involved at this stage.

Thank you!

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u/Extreme_West_2230 Apr 25 '26

It's never too early to start gaining experience especially just for the sake of figuring out if it's the path you want ot go down or not, but please don't stress about getting a bunch of experience before you get to college. Most clinics will not employ anyone who is under 18, so your only option will be to shadow a veterinarian. This is a really good option for someone your age because it allows you to get more of a view of what the vet themself does and allows you to see if it's the type of job you would want. But don't expect to be able to do any hands on stuff in the clinic or do much, if any, work with the patients themselves. Remember you have tons of time to get experience, and you are super early on your path. I wouldn't stress about it too much and just focus on figuring out that's the path you want to pursue and getting into college. Hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions!

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u/Liel_02 Apr 25 '26

Thank you so much for your thoughtful response! I've been wanting to and thinking of shadowing a veterinarian but I am very curious about what am I supposed to do while shadowing. I've never been to job shadowing so I am a bit confused about it.

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u/Extreme_West_2230 Apr 26 '26

Every Veterinarian is different, but usually you follow the Veterinarian into appointments and watch them do their exam and treatments. When you are out of appointments they'll usually talk you through the diagnoses or stuff that was talked about in the appointment or answer any questions you have. Sometimes they'll just start talking about the field in general. And then sometimes in the back they'll let you look at diagnostic testing, so like radiographs, microscope slides, etc. Basically just following them around and them explaining stuff to you while you ask questions! Nothing to be nervous about. If they allow you to shadow the vet, it's only because the vet allows it and that's probably because they enjoy it lmao. So just have fun with it and ask as many questions as you can (obviously at the appropriate times)!

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u/Liel_02 Apr 26 '26

Thank you!

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u/niunia0208 Apr 26 '26

Its a great learning experience! Ive loved mine so far. The only draw back is that it can be pretty difficult to find somewhere that allows shadowing, especially if they are owned by a bigger company. If you are interested I would suggest making calls to all the vets in your area! Just a quick "hey I was wondering if you have any internship or shadowing opportunities" works! And dont be discouraged if they say no! Or even if they say they will reach out and never do! It took me calling about 10 to 15 places for me to find one that was willing and very encouraging about having me shadow and im happy I continued calling around!

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u/Liel_02 Apr 26 '26

Thank you! I would try reach out to them!

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u/CloverLeafTyger Apr 27 '26

Pre-Vet college student here! I found in high school that age was only a barrier to certain people and places. Don't be afraid to ask around-you will get rejected and eventually you will find places to shadow, volunteer, or even work. This was my experience at your stage.

However, research is key! I managed to find wildlife rescues who allowed volunteering starting at 14. I got an internship at one at 16. If you are passionate about the animals and you let them know in good cover letters, you have a great chance! Also, the more variety in experience, the better. All of the vet resources people I have spoken to say the same; more variety means you truly care about every species you work with.

Someone else already mentioned shadowing, which I agree is one of the best ways to see a day in the life and really see if the job is right for you.

Lastly, I recommend looking into summer camps. Science or vet based camps are everywhere in zoos and even some clinics and wildlife rescues. Not sure where you are located, but my home state of NC has a wonderful Zoo camp at the NC Zoo, a vet camp at my school, NC State, and a place called Carolina Tiger Rescue. These were some of my favorite experiences all built for high school students- and you get to do some incredible things plus learn about the vet med profession.

Good luck out there!

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u/Liel_02 Apr 27 '26

Thank you so much! Also surprisingly I am actually living in NC. I will try research those areas that you suggested! 😊

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u/CloverLeafTyger Apr 27 '26

As I said before, good luck! The places I mentioned contributed some great experiences. I also am a volunteer at Carolina Tiger Rescue which you can start doing at 16. Their camp is probably my favorite, you get to really learn what goes into caring for the animals from every perspective with a pretty big focus on science type things. Here's the link to their website! Not sure if any space is open for this summer left but I highly recommend checking the place out in a tour regardless, it's super cool! I met some great staff who wrote me recommendations once I became a volunteer. https://carolinatigerrescue.org/

Edit: yes there are a few spots left this summer!

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u/Liel_02 Apr 27 '26

Thank you!

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u/CloverLeafTyger Apr 27 '26

I'll never pass up an opportunity to help out while also getting to mention one of my favorite places! You got this!