dvm360.com: Overcoming Workplace Ruts

Why did you choose to enter the field of veterinary medicine? Was it a calling since childhood? Did a life event compel you to dedicate your career to helping animals? Maybe a family member in the industry inspired you to follow in their footsteps. Whatever the reasons, something ignited a passion in you to pursue a career in this field. For me, entering a job where I could make a difference in the lives of animals was non-negotiable.

I remember when I received my first position at a veterinary clinic as an entry-level veterinary assistant. I was thrilled, eager, and curious, but also nervous and even terrified at times because everything was new and overwhelming. Tasks I thought would be simple, like cleaning a kennel, came with a complexity of rules and protocols. Senior technicians would redirect my attempts to be useful because I lacked the training and trust to execute tasks correctly. Becoming a veterinary technician, a role I aspired to where I could assist veterinarians and manage cases, felt like a distant dream.