If you love taking care of animals, becoming a vet tech just might be the pick of the litter when it comes to choosing a career path. If you’re looking for flexible, self-paced learning, vet tech school online may be just what the doctor ordered. Consider these 3 steps to vet tech schooling success:
- Select the Right Program. Consider what you’re looking for in a veterinary technician school. Do you need a program that allows for some flexibility in scheduling so you can keep up with work and family responsibilities? Does the program include a clinical component so you can get credit for hands-on experience while you complete your online courses? The program you choose should be accredited by a reputable organization to be sure it meets high standards in every aspect of operations, from admissions to curriculum quality.
- Manage Time Wisely. Online study requires self-discipline and good time-management skills. While you can finish assignments and take tests whenever and wherever it’s convenient, you still have to complete the program within a certain amount of time. Keeping up with your studies is especially important when you begin your clinicals, or if you’re volunteering at an animal shelter or veterinary clinic to gain additional experience. Pace yourself and set short-term goals to stay on track.
- Maintain Good Study Habits. You’ll get the most out of vet tech school online if you develop good study habits. Set aside regular times throughout the week to work on assignments and prepare for tests. Take notes on what you’re learning to help you remember the material, and ask for help if you need it. Keep distractions to a minimum. When you finish a project or ace a test, reward yourself, perhaps by spending some time watching funny cat videos on YouTube.
A Prescription for Career Success
With the booming pet care industry, veterinary technicians are in high demand. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth in this area at 36% (between 2008 and 2018). This rate is much higher than expected job growth in other sectors. Plus, vet techs are in demand everywhere, so the world is your oyster with this career.
If caring for animals in a clinical setting sounds like the cat’s meow, enrolling in vet tech school online can help you get started putting your passion into practice.
