Just not sure ..... :(

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Katie B — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 01:02:57 GMT

I had the same thing last year, I had to defer my VCA due to lack of moneys. And I also wasn't sure that I was more suited to Animal Management as I love the idea at working at a shelter. But I decided to stick with my VCA as ultimately I like the idea of nursing animals back to health. However after my VCA I plan to apply for anything animal related, animal officer for RSPCA, kennel work, just until I find a training placement. I am even going to do a dog grooming course so I will finally find a job animal related as anything animal related will make me happy. I really wish i could do the degree but already done a degree so student loan will be out of the question. Welldone on the job, that sounds amazing! Just go wtih whatever is in your heart rather than in your head.

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Forlan — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:51:38 GMT

Thanks everyone. I have decided to go for it, but holding off applying until next years so that I have more options. Thanks for all the advice.

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Lesley M — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:35:53 GMT

Agreed! I just finishing 2nd year of degree and will qualify when I am 39.

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Elvira — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:01:20 GMT

Ditto to both of those! I qualified last year aged 55!!

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Tracy Windler RVN — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:25:28 GMT

Ditto to that, too! I was 26 before I started my training. I was more focused and dedicated than I was at 18!

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Katie Mansfield — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:02:13 GMT

Another thought - don't worry about getting too old to train should you decide to continue in your present job and then wish you'd done VN - I'm 40 and starting training again in Sept after a 15 yr break. I'm doing the degree so I won't be qualified until I'm 45 (!!) Someone at college asked me last week if it was worth it given I'd be retiring after 20 yrs. The way I see it that's 20 yrs I'll gain in a career I've really missed and as a behaviour and training addict I plan on doing a masters in that after the VN degree.

Someone on another thread earlier said vets are interested in hiring more mature trainees as well, and I couldn't agree more - age is not a restriction, it's an asset

K x

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Forlan — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:51:46 GMT

Thanks for your advice. I think I need to sit down and give it some serious thought....

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Tracy Windler RVN — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:36:16 GMT

Although no one can make the decision for you, I would say there are a few things you should consider when making your decision. Can you see yourself in your current role longterm? ie. is it a fullfilling job, are there long-term prospects, is it repetitive or mundane in any way? Getting to my stage in life (early 30's), I can see where I went wrong in my decision-making and what I would do differently.

Ultimately, I'm glad I chose Vet nursing, as I am very employable, there are jobs in most places in the country if I want to move and its a varied and fulfilling job. The prospects aren't great within general practice and if you are more ambitious, most jobs are in larger towns or cities (not in Shropshire, anyway!).

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Forlan — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:11:11 GMT

Yeah, I have done two weeks of experience which I needed for my application last year. I may look into fitting some more experience in though to help me. To be honest, I loved my experience!

Re: Just not sure ..... :(

Katie Mansfield — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:01:45 GMT

Have you ever worked in vet practice - be it voluntary or otherwise? It would help your decision if you have some kind of experience to weigh up your current job against.

K x