2001 S. Lincoln Ave. By Sarah Probst Information Specialist University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Gerald Pijanowski, associate dean of Academic and Student Affairs at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, has some advice for prospective students. Attend the Open House coordinated each April by veterinary students. And develop a strong relationship with your local veterinarian, who can be your best ally in determining whether the veterinary profession is the career for you. Also, study hard, especially science.
Veterinary medicine is a rapidly advancing scientific field.
Your understanding of basic scientific principles will enhance your ability to gain admission into our College. This knowledge will also strengthen your performance as a veterinary student and as a practicing veterinarian or veterinary research scientist. The examples of two current students at the College of Veterinary Medicine, one of only 27 veterinary schools in the United States, illustrate the important role experience plays in gaining admission to the four-year veterinary program and preparing for a veterinary career. Chris Welch, originally from Farmington, Illinois, decided to go into veterinary medicine when he was a sophomore in college. Veterinary medicine had an obvious appeal for Welch, who not only enjoys working with animals and but also loves biology and medicine.