The first question--why do you want to be a vet? I had prepared endlessly for that question and when I could not remember some of the points I wanted to hit I kind of froze up. I found that the questions I had not prepared for flowed a lot better. For my next interview I am not going to spend hours trying to memorize bullet points.
I looked at old questions on SND and wrote down practice answers in bullet form. I ran through the answers with my mom and girlfriend to practice saying them out loud. I definitely recommend practicing old questions with someone who knows you well. They thought of a lot of examples of stuff I had done that were good to illustrate particular points that I had not thought of.
What impressed you positively?
The students were really nice. The waiting area before the interview was a great place to meet current students and ask questions. It was also nice because it gave family and friends a place to wait during the interview. The interviewers were also really nice for the most part. They were definitely trying their best to make me as comfortable as possible. The interview had a conversational, "get to know you" kind of feel.
What impressed you negatively?
One of my interviewers, the local vet, was kind of dull and did not really seem like she wanted to be there. The two professors were obviously familiar with my file and they asked me questions that were tailored toward my experiences. The local vet asked only a couple of stock questions that she could have asked anyone.
What are your general comments?
After the interview at Kansas they take into account your entire file and your interview when they rank the applicants. This hurt me because I have a weak GPA. I am on the alternate list at the moment, but I felt like my interview went well. I don't know the formula that they use, but this all leads me to believe that the interview is not a huge part of the final evaluation. If you have strong numbers--you're in luck (as always)! Your interview is probably not going to make or break their decision. If your numbers are weaker do your best, but judging by my experience grades still play a big part in the evaluation post-interview.
What are your suggestions for the admissions office?
I interviewed the day after the pizza party, but I felt sorry for the people who interviewed the first day before the party. The "party" was more of an information session, and it gave me a lot of good information about the school that I was able to use in my interview. If I had interviewed before the pizza part I definitely would have felt as though I was at a disadvantage.
📍 On-Site Experience
Who was the tour given by?
Student
How did the tour guide seem?
Enthusiastic
What is your in-state status?
Out of state
What were your total hours spent traveling?
7+ hours
What was your primary mode of travel?
Airplane
About how much did you spend on room, food, and travel?