A veterinary technician is an extremely rewarding career. As a vet tech, you play an important role in animal clinics by supporting veterinarians perform important duties related to animal care and pet parent education.
Of course, being a vet tech is rewarding enough if you love animals. But now may be a better time than ever to join this profession:
Did you know that according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the expected job growth for veterinary technicians is projected to expand by 20% between 2016 and 2026? This is “much faster” than other occupations—which spells great opportunity for you!
If you’re going to invest in your future as a vet tech by enrolling in a veterinary technician school online, be sure to check out these tips to “throw yourself a bone” and get the most out of your education and training.
3 Tips For Success When Considering Vet Tech Schooling Online
1. Study smart.
When you enroll in vet tech schooling online, remember that you’re paying for your education. So study like you mean it! Some go-to (and research-backed) tips for successful studying include:
- Exercise before a study sesh—research has shown that this can help improve learning by maximizing the amount of oxygen you have in your brain.
- Take breaks—at least one 10-15 minute break per hour of studying.
- Avoid multitasking.
- Take practice tests. And remember: if you can teach a subject, you know a subject. So consider making up your own practice tests to do with your study group.
- Manage your stress and get good sleep. It helps your brain retain!
2. Get ready to get hands on.
Gaining knowledge through tests and lectures is one thing—but gaining experience through practical, hands on opportunities is another—especially when you’re preparing a career as a vet tech.
When you have the opportunity to work, expect to ask a lot of questions. Take advantage of other co-workers who are more experienced and who can help you get used to the “real world” experience of working with animals and pet parents. At the same time, understand that as a new vet tech, you’ll have access to some of the latest knowledge and advances in veterinary medicine.
Bottom line, be helpful and believe that you have something to offer, no matter where your vet tech certification takes you.
3. Enjoy your courses—but take them seriously, too.
Unfortunately, many students enrolled in online vet tech schooling (or any online course, for that matter) fall into the trap of believing that just because their education has gone digital, they don’t have to take it as seriously.
This couldn’t be further from the truth. The great thing about vet tech schools online is that it awards you so much flexibility and freedom. But with freedom comes discipline, and online courses deserve just as much of your energy and attention as in-person classes in brick-and-mortar schools.
So, enjoy the process of learning how to become a veterinary technician, but be sure to honor and manage your time appropriately.
Are you interested in becoming a vet tech?
Ashworth College is proud to be recognized as a leader (the cat’s meow, you might say) for vet tech schools online. If you’re interested in getting your foot in the door to the veterinary medicine world and are looking for more information, contact us today.