If you’ve recently finished veterinary school, congratulations! You’ve accomplished something not many people are able to do, and you should be very proud of that. However, as you know, your veterinary journey is far from over. In fact, it’s just beginning. Now that you’ve made it through school, it’s time to get to work! After all, those student loans aren’t going to pay for themselves. Whether you’ve already landed your first veterinary job, or you’re just beginning your job search, the tips below should help you get off to a great start in your new career as a veterinarian.
Befriend Your Colleagues
As a veterinarian, your staff and nurses are your best allies. Therefore, you should befriend them and learn as much as you can from them as you begin your veterinary career. Actively solicit their advice and input—particularly those who’ve been in the veterinary field for years. You’ll be spending a lot of time with these people, so it’s important to build strong relationships with them from the start.
Take Notes
Even though you’re done with veterinary school, you should maintain the mindset of a student throughout your veterinary career. In other words, you should make it a goal to be a perpetual learner. One discipline to aid you in this task is to always keep a notepad on you. Any time a question comes up that you’d like to investigate further, or whenever you learn something useful from a colleague, jot it down in your notebook.
Find a Mentor
Mentorship is the key to a successful veterinary career. As noted above, your veterinary education isn’t over just because you’re done with veterinary school; in fact, it’s just beginning. If you are fortunate enough to work with one or more experienced veterinarians early in your career, consider yourself very lucky—the knowledge you obtain from them will aid you throughout your time as a veterinarian.
Cut Yourself Some Slack
Finally, as a new veterinarian, you shouldn’t be too hard on yourself. Although you now have a license to practice veterinary medicine, you have a long way to go before you truly learn the ropes of the profession. Therefore, be sure to cut yourself some slack when you make a mistake—and you will make mistakes. Remember, even the most experienced and successful veterinarians were beginners at one time. We all have to start somewhere!
Contact Our Experienced Veterinary Practice Consulting Attorneys
The veterinary profession can be extremely rewarding. However, like all professions, it isn’t without its risks, especially if you operate your own practice. The best way to manage these risks is to contact an experienced veterinary practice consulting attorney. With an experienced veterinary practice consulting attorney on your team, you can rest assured that you and your veterinary practice are protected. Please contact us today for a free consultation.