A veterinary externship is a crucial step in every veterinary student’s journey that allows you to apply your knowledge, gain hands-on experience, and explore various specialties. But, finding the perfect externship can be daunting. Our Family Veterinary Care of Oakdale team has created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and secure an externship that aligns with your career goals.

The importance of a veterinary externship

Externships are short-term, practical experiences that provide veterinary students with the chance to work in real-world settings. These placements are essential for several reasons, including:

  • Practical experience — Externships bridge the gap between classroom learning and clinical practice by allowing you to apply your theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios. This hands-on experience is invaluable in developing your clinical skills.
  • Skill development — Students develop technical and client communication skills and learn clinical decision-making. Whether you perform a surgical procedure, diagnose an illness, or interact with pet owners, these are crucial experiences for your professional growth.
  • Networking — Externships offer opportunities to connect with professionals in the field, which can be invaluable for future job prospects. Building a network of contacts can open doors to job offers, recommendations, and career advice.
  • Career exploration — Students can explore different specialties and work environments, which helps make informed career choices. Whether you’re interested in small animal practice, large animal medicine, or exotic animals, externships give you a taste of various fields.

Identifying your externship goals

Before you start searching for an externship, identify your goals. Consider the following questions:

  • What are your areas of interest? — Are you drawn to small animal practice, large animal medicine, exotic animals, wildlife, or research? Understanding your passion will help you focus on externships that align with your career aspirations.
  • What skills do you want to develop? — Do you want to focus on surgical skills, diagnostic techniques, or client communication? Identifying the skills you wish to hone will guide you in selecting an externship that offers relevant experiences.
  • What environment do you prefer? — Are you interested in working in a private practice, university hospital, zoo, or research facility? Different settings offer different experiences, so consider where you feel you’ll best thrive.

Researching potential externships

Once you’ve identified your goals, research potential externships using the following resources:

  • University resources — Your school’s career services, faculty advisors, and veterinary program coordinators can help. They often have lists of recommended externship sites and can guide you based on their knowledge of your strengths and interests.
  • Professional organizations — Many veterinary associations and specialty groups offer externship opportunities. Check their websites and reach out to members for recommendations. 
  • Online databases — Websites like the AVMA and the Veterinary Internship and Residency Matching Program (VIRMP) have databases of externship opportunities that you can use to search for externships based on location, specialty, and other criteria.
  • Networking — Talk to professors, clinicians, and alumni you’ve met during your studies. Personal recommendations can lead to valuable opportunities. Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to expand your network and find potential externships.

Evaluating externship sites

Not all externships are created equal. Evaluate potential sites based on the following:

  • Mentorship quality — Look for placements with experienced veterinarians who are willing to mentor and teach. Strong mentorship can significantly enhance your learning experience.
  • Hands-on experience — Ensure that the externship offers ample practical, hands-on work rather than only observation. The more you can do, the more you will learn.
  • Case variety — Choose a site that handles a diverse case range to broaden your experience. Exposure to many different cases will help you develop a well-rounded skill set.
  • Work environment — Consider the team dynamic, clinic culture, and whether the site’s values align with your own. A supportive and collaborative environment can make a big difference in your experience.
  • Location and logistics — Factor in the location, cost of living, housing options, and any travel expenses. 

Finding the perfect veterinary externship requires careful planning, research, and self-reflection. Determine your goals, evaluate potential sites, and make the most of your experience to guarantee that your externship is a valuable career stepping stone. The connections you make and the skills you develop during this time will shape your future as a veterinarian. 

Contact us to learn more about externship opportunities with our Family Veterinary Care of Oakdale team—we’d love to meet you!