First year in University of Sydney’s veterinary program

27 August 2020

Originally from Vancouver and with a Bachelor of Science degree in applied animal biology, Cherri is now in her first year of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the University of Sydney. With no vet program in British Columbia, she had to leave her home province to chase her dream of becoming a vet anyway, so she thought she may as well go somewhere with great weather, nice beaches, and one of the top 10 vet schools in the world (at the time she applied).

University of Sydney veterinary student
Sydney DVM student Cherri

So, what’s her life like now?
Well, she’s enjoying her program, she has enough time to study and explore Australia and she loves living in the multi-cultural and friendly city of Sydney.

What are her favourite spots on campus?
The Quadrangle, which is one of the first buildings designed for the university at the time of its inception in the 1850s. Today it’s a symbolic entrance to the university, and a go-to spot for activities (and celebratory photos!).

The Quarter Study Hub. If you’re in a grad program, this is a great place to study and meet other students in graduate programs. Open 24/7, there is lots of space to study on your own or work with a group. Take a virtual tour.

What does a typical week look like?
Monday —Tuesday: These days are usually spent in Camden, which is about an hour’s drive from of the main campus. Here, vet students spend learn and practice professional skills, like animal handling, lab skills, and clinical consultations.

Wednesday — Friday: These days are reserved for lectures on the main campus, starting around 9 in the morning and ending around 4 or 5 in the afternoon. Also on the main campus is the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. More than 90 staff work here teaching the next generation of vets in a real-life clinical setting.

What’s the most challenging parts of the program so far?
“One of the biggest challenges for me is just the amount of time that it takes to just go through all my lectures, to study, do all my assignments. And also, just the sheer volume of information that they expect us to learn in a very short period of time.”

What’s the most rewarding part of the program so far?
“Best part of my program so far is just being in vet school. I’ve worked so hard to get to this point now and everything I’m learning and doing and experiencing is just working towards my future. And I just couldn’t really be happier, honestly!”

Tips for new students?
Buy your overalls and other gear used from graduating students. It’s less expensive and more comfortable!

To hear and see more from Cherri, check out her takeover on OzTREKK’s IGTV. You can also follow Cherri’s continuing adventures on her personal Instagram account, @cherrideng.

About University of Sydney’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program

Program: Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
Location: Sydney, NSW
Semester intake: February
Next intake: February 2021
Duration: 4 years
Application deadline: September 14, 2020 (We encourage you to apply as early as possible!)

Apply now to Sydney vet!

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Would you like more information about the Sydney vet program? Contact OzTREKK’s Vet Admissions Officer at vet@oztrekk.com or call toll free in Canada at 1-866-698-7355.

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