Dr. Dennis Slade, DVM graduated from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2005. He has been working in the NYC area as an internist ever since. He says “You can get a lot of perspectives about the careers in vet medicine when you explore and have experiences outside of where you think you want to be.”
The Cornell veterinary school acceptance rate is not high. Particularly since the competition is high.
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If you are curious about the requirements to get into Cornell University then check out this book: Veterinary Medical School Admission Requirements (VMSAR). It will help you navigate all of the requirements for each college.
Name and year you started Vet school.
Dennis J. Slade, DVM, DACVIM
Staff Internist, Animal Medical Center
Vet school started Fall 2001 (Class of 2005, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine) Cornell is one of two vet schools in New York.
There are many career options for where a veterinarian can work. Dr. Dennis Slade DVM now works at the Animal Medical Center in NYC, as an internist. An internist is a veterinary specialist, who goes on to complete more advanced training after they graduate from veterinary school.
You might be wondering How long does it take to become a veterinarian? Well, this is directly related to what you want to specialize in after you earn your DVM degree.
What was your major in undergraduate college?
Biology (Minor Art)
What types of paying jobs did you have before going to veterinary school?
College Admissions
Molecular Biology Research
Summer Theater Box Office
At what age did you first apply to Vet school?
21
How many schools did you apply to?
~8
How many application cycles did you apply before being accepted to Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine?
One; however, I deferred admission for two years as I had received a Fulbright Scholarship during that same application cycle and Cornell was gracious enough to grant me deferment, but this is not a typical situation.
Did you attend grad school?
No
Did you work at a veterinarians’ office?
Yes, for periods of time in high school and again in college
Did you volunteer?
No
When did you decide to become a vet?
During childhood
How many schools invited you for an interview?
~5
How many of those gave you an acceptance letter?
2 or 3 – I honestly can’t remember
What was your GPA (in undergraduate)?
3.9 (4.0)
Did you interview any Vets before starting the application process?
Not formally, but casually with the vets I had worked with throughout my life.
Were you a member of the pre-vet club at your school?
No – we did not have.
Do you recommend that students join clubs/orgs once they are enrolled in a DVM program?
Yes, absolutely – vet school is a great time to build friendships, engage in activities outside of vet medicine, and find balance as a person.
Who gave you your letters of recommendation?
Most of my letters were from college professors; I think one may have been from a vet who mentored/helped me over the years.
Did you know them very well before asking for a letter?
Yes. A letter from someone who knows you well can write a more meaningful and helpful letter to an admissions committee than someone who may “look” good but doesn’t know you well.
Are you happy that you chose this career?
Yes!
Do you have any advice for students once they are accepted?
Find balance in your life – personal life, professional life, and social life. Try to be multi-dimensional – having interests, activities, and experiences outside of the profession will make you a better vet!
Were there any classes at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, within your DVM program, that were especially relatable to your current position?
All of them! Even spending time on large animal and ambulatory services can help develop skills in the profession – for example, communication skills with clients and peers, will go a long way.
Note from Editor: (A large animal pre-vet internship can help you develop skills that you didn’t realize you had.)
You can get a lot of perspectives about careers in vet medicine when you explore and have experiences outside of where you think you want to be.
How can people find you?
dennis.slade@amcny.org
