The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies
Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies Bicentenary

Tedd Zel

Year 1 BVM&S GEP from California Polytechnic State University

What made you decide to study abroad after your BS at California Polytechnic State University?

I applied to many schools in the US as well as RDSVS in Edinburgh. I got offers from 3 US schools but ultimately decided on RDSVS in Edinburgh primarily for financial reasons as well as the benefit of having a more worldly recognized degree of high academic calibre. Having a high pass rate for the NAVLE was also a critical factor in making my decision.

 

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

I decided to apply to RDSVS because it was recommended to me by a friend that was in the GEP program. Ultimately I applied to RDSVS to increase my options and chances of being accepted somewhere.

 

What was the application process like?

The application process was simple and conveniently done through VMCAS.

 

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

I enjoy that the BVM&S degree is very hands on from day 1 and the program has a good faculty to student ratio.

 

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

It was not difficult to transition into life in Edinburgh and studying abroad. Edinburgh is a wonderful city with a high quality of living, there's everything you need within walking distance and the public transportation is great. I had already been used to being away from home, being from NYC, Cal Poly was like a study "abroad" experience for me. It can be emotionally difficult being so far from family and friends but you are easily distracted from this due to being extremely busy with your studies, maintaining a physically active lifestyle at the gym or other recreation, and having the occasional fun time out. 

 

Has Edinburgh become your home away from home?

Edinburgh has become a home away from home and I feel very comfortable here, I already know I am going to miss it when I am done with the BVM&S program.

 

What do find is the most challenging aspect of your degree?

The most challenging aspect of the BVM&S degree is the extremely fast paced GEP program combined with an immense amount of information. Dealing with the amount of information is more difficult that understanding the content itself.

 

How is your programme equipping you for your future career?

The BVM&S degree is preparing me with interpersonal skills, a strong basis of veterinary knowledge, applied clinical and husbandry skills that will be necessary for passing the NAVLE and my future career. 

 

What aspect of student life do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy the friendliness of the fellow students and staff, everyone is very helpful and there is a strong sense of camaraderie, we all want each other to succeed.

 

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

Apply! It's worth having Edinburgh RDSVS as an option, it is a highly accredited school with a worldly recognized degree that will really foster travel opportunities in your future career. Also, there will be many travel opportunities as a student, it is easy to find affordable weekend trips to places all throughout Europe, you can make the time for it if you are diligent with your studies. Living in another country for four years, especially in a place as nice as Edinburgh, can really be an eye opening and once in a lifetime experience. Good luck with all your veterinary endeavours!