Greetings fellow comrades!
My name is Michelle and I am a Graduate Entry Programme student from the Pacific Southwest state of California. My colleagues and I are currently swimming in the depths of the Animal Body 2 Module. And let me tell you, it’s been an intense yet joyous ride so far. The lecture material this year is a vast and integral piece of the vet school puzzle; the scientific foundation we need to succeed. Not to mention the hands on practicals and husbandry experience. Until a couple of weeks ago on Langhill farm, I had never milked a cow! In the first few months we have already acquired the skills to groom and halter a horse, restrain cattle for dental exams, perform a thorough physical exam on a dog, make kitty burritos 🙂 the list goes on…
Honestly, none of this would be quite the same if it weren’t for all of the wonderful people I’ve met and friends made here in Edinburgh. My colleagues have been so incredible and I can truly say the Class of 2022 is a solid group of exceptional folk. I definitely can’t leave out the rest of the student body for they have been amazing, helping us ‘freshers’ transition into life in vet school.
Of course, I must also acknowledge our outstanding professors who not only provide us with invaluable knowledge, but who also encourage our professional and personal development as veterinarians. From day one as a Royal (Dick) vet student, we are encouraged to care for our mental health and to seek guidance when things get tough. Trust me, it can get tough but the sheer support provided makes anything possible.
You will be pleased to know my journey here in Edinburgh has not been ENTIRELY about school. SCOTLAND IS BEAUTIFUL! There are so many breathtaking sights in Edinburgh alone so be sure to get out there and explore!
Finally, I will highlight some of the great things I’ve experienced in my 4 months since moving here:
- Quirky/awesome performances at the Fringe Festival
- Hiking Arthur’s Seat with fellow classmates and admin
- Salsa Society Freshers Social
- Animal Welfare and Ethics Conference @ the Royal Dick
- Bat Rehabilitation and Medicine Conference @ the Royal Dick
- One Health Week!
- Doug Allan: Blue Planet cameraman lecture put on by DVWCS
- Conversing with real clients about the important relationship they share with their pets
There is SO much more to include but I will just say whatever your interest, there is a niche within the Royal Dick, Main Uni, Edinburgh, Scotland, etc. So get out of your comfort zone, embrace challenges, and have fun!
We are a compassionate and driven group of people. We work hard for ourselves and we work harder so that we can care for others.
Cheers,
Michelle Seers
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studie
