RCVS inspires the next generation of veterinary professionals at Vet Mentor’s recent virtual work experience event

On Sunday 22 August, around 450 prospective veterinary students attended Vet Mentor’s virtual work experience event, VetWex. Throughout the day, the RCVS Presidential team discussed a range of topics including professionalism, veterinary ethics in practice and animal welfare, and students had the chance to ask them questions about their experiences in the profession.

Throughout the pandemic, there have been fewer opportunities for students interested in applying to veterinary school to gain work experience placements. Getting practice experience is often an asset on a higher education application and gives prospective vets an insight into working in a veterinary practice. Work experience events like VetWex help to encourage the next generation of veterinary professionals to apply for a place at vet school and demonstrate how rewarding a veterinary career can be.

During the day, students were shown videos of vets interacting with pet owners in a range of common practice scenarios. These included how to talk to a client about vaccinations and needles, interpreting an X-ray and collaborating with a veterinary team. Kate and Mandisa helped lead the discussions that arose from watching the videos and introduced students to the role that the RCVS will play in their future training and career.

When asked about the Vet Mentor event, Dr Kate Richards (pictured - top), RCVS President, said: “This event was a fantastic opportunity for those aspiring to be vets. After viewing videos of mock consultations, school children took part in a discussion where Dr Alex Davies, Mandisa and I covered veterinary ethics, animal welfare and professional responsibilities.”

Dr Mandisa Greene (pictured - bottom, RCVS Vice President, added: “The students were really engaged and asked us challenging questions. With the pressures on the veterinary profession from the Covid pandemic and Brexit, this initiative from Vet Mentor provided a window into the veterinary profession in a format that was accessible for both students and teachers attending.”

Dr Alex Davies, Chief Mentor for Veterinary at Vet Mentor said: “Vet Mentor’s virtual VetWex programme has given unparalleled access to the UK profession for students across the country. It was a pleasure to welcome Kate and Mandisa from the RCVS to talk about some vital topics that inspired and informed aspiring vets, in preparation for their applications and their future careers.”

Prospective veterinary students interested in finding out about future VetWex events can visit Veterinary Virtual LIVE Work Experience | Medic Mentors to find out how to register.