What A Veterinarian At The Vets Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Veterinary Industry
Zach, a Vice President and LTC in the US Army Reserve, wished someone had emphasized the importance of "business acumen and business skills" before entering the veterinary industry. The skills and a differentiator, such as an MBA, are crucial for career advancement, as "no matter what you're doing, there will be a business component to it," making a candidate with additional business training more competitive.
Business Acumen, Veterinary Medicine, Leadership Skills, Career Planning, Higher Education
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Zach Mills
Vice President; LTC
The Vets; US Army Reserve
Kansas State University (1994)
Colorado State University (Epidemiology); University of Georgia (MBA); Kansas State University (DVM); Kansas State University (MPH)
Biology & Related Sciences
Government & Public Sector, Military
Medical
Scholarship Recipient, Greek Life Member, Veteran
Video Highlights
1. Develop business skills alongside veterinary science: Zach emphasizes the importance of business acumen in veterinary practice, suggesting that supplementing veterinary education with business administration courses (e.g., an MBA) provides a significant advantage in career advancement. This is crucial for success in various veterinary roles, from private practice to industry positions.
2. Gain diverse experiences early: The interview highlights the value of seeking out diverse experiences, even before veterinary school. This advice underscores the need for students to explore various aspects of the field and develop a broad skillset, which could include exposure to veterinary clinics, research, or related fields.
3. Broaden your perspective beyond the purely scientific: Zach's advice suggests that focusing solely on the scientific aspects of veterinary medicine might be limiting. Students should actively cultivate broader skills and knowledge, such as those related to business and management, to become well-rounded professionals prepared for diverse opportunities within the veterinary industry.
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
Being a veterinarian wasn't something I knew much about. I didn't have any veterinarians in my family, and I didn't really understand what the profession entailed. When I applied, I didn't even have experience working in a vet clinic.
I was more interested in the science and medicine, and in being able to deliver that. So, during my undergraduate studies and into veterinary school, I focused on preparing myself for what it means to be a vet.
The one thing I tell people is that there are many skills needed that you might not otherwise consider. The biggest of these is business acumen and business skills. During your undergraduate and veterinary school years, consider getting additional training in business or business administration.
I say this because no matter what you do, there will be a business component to it. Whether you're in industry, practice, or a specialist, this will make you a better professional and give you valuable skills.
For example, if you have ten graduates who are all excellent veterinarians, but one also has an MBA, that person is likely to advance further. They have a differentiator based on their additional skills and experience.
By keeping an open mind and acquiring these skills, you can bring more to a practice or a job. You can deliver more value by having that extra background.
It takes a little more time to pursue an MBA during your undergraduate or veterinary studies, but it will offer lifelong benefits. It will provide you with the background to excel.
So, if you're interested in science, biology, or life sciences, don't narrow your focus too much. Try to keep an open mind to other areas that will make you a better professional within a veterinary practice, the industry, a hospital, or a university.
Advizer Personal Links
linkedin.com/in/zachmills