Oceanna Schnirman

Year 1 BVM&S GEP from McGill University - Canada

What made you decide to apply to The University of Edinburgh and The R(D)SVS after your BSc?

While I was studying at McGill University, a team from the admissions office at The R(D)SVS came to present about their veterinary program. I sat through the presentation and knew that this was the school that I wanted to pursue my veterinary degree from. I went home that night and did some research on the university and on the city of Edinburgh. The very next day, I asked my professor to write me a letter of recommendation and I started the application process.

What was the application process like?

I applied via a partnership between my program at McGill and the vet school. The process was very straightforward. Whenever I had questions or needed clarification, the R(D)SVS admissions team was always so helpful and responded to my queries as soon as they could. 

What stands out in your mind from your experience at Edinburgh and studying Veterinary Medicine so far?

The most notable part of my experience so far has been how great the faculty and staff are. Any time I have a question or need help with something, there is always someone there to help.

Has Edinburgh become your home away from home?

Edinburgh has really become my home away from home. Every time I take a trip or visit home, I’m always excited to go back.

Was it difficult to transition into life in Edinburgh and studying abroad?

It wasn’t difficult for me to transition to live in Edinburgh. I found the city to be really welcoming and the university helped to make that transition easier for me.

What aspect of the BVM&S degree do you enjoy the most and why?

The most enjoyable part of my degree so far has been how hands-on the program really is. By November of my first year, I was learning how to do a clinical exam of a dog!

Have your EMS placements helped to shape your studies so far?

EMS placements have been so helpful in my studies. They are a great place to practice what I’ve learned in my lectures and practicals. I also learned of new skills, including how to do a nerve block and dehorn calves.

How is your programme equipping you for your future career?

There are so many opportunities to practice handling and clinical skills. There are life-sized models and all sorts of equipment in the study landscape to help gain more of a confidence in the skills that I have been taught.  This makes it easier when you’re working with live animals, be it on EMS, in classes, or in clinics. To me, that confidence is one of the most important parts of being a vet.

If you could give one piece of advice to any prospective students thinking of applying to the R(D)SVS, what would it be?

The best advice that I could give to a prospective student is to accept challenges that are thrown your way. You learn so much as you work through these challenges and there’s great support system around you. Remember to reach out to people because you’re not alone.