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Student Profiles

Jonathan Kelly

Veterinary Gateway Programme

The RVC was always my first choice for Veterinary Medicine, having attended a summer school here at the end of my GCSE’s. I liked that the university is solely for veterinary-based degrees and once I learned that the Gateway course was available, I knew that the RVC was where I wanted to study.

Gateway was an amazing experience. It gave me the opportunity to build on my knowledge from A-Level and challenged me to reach the level I needed to advance onto my dream degree. Gateway integrated very well with the BVetMed course and has given me a foundation on which I can continue to build.The academic aspect of the course allows you to further your knowledge using different types of learning. ‘Directed Learning’ allows you to apply lecture material to different, relevant situations.

I spent Easter of my Gateway year at a 3 week lambing placement, and enjoyed every minute of it. I was able to experience life on a farm, whilst learning the skills I required to help deliverer and care for the lambs. I was also able to obtain some equine experience on the same farm so I have background knowledge before undertaking my official equine work placement.

RVC structures its courses very well. The lecturers will ensure students are confident with the basic concepts of the course, before progressing onto the more complex and in-depth elements. The practical based learning allows students to apply principles from lectures and gives the course more structure.  I can improve my practical skills at the same time as learning and by working in groups we are able to help each other.

The RVC has an extensive range of textbooks and journals on offer, and these can be requested from either campus to aid your studies. There are also many computers on both campuses, and many of these are open to students 24 hours. The Anatomy Museum in the Camden campus is also open 24 hours and houses hundreds of specimens.There are also many services, and staff available to help various needs or support. Whether its finance worries, exam stress or personal issues, there is help available.

I spent my first year in College Grove halls. It was a very worthwhile experience and I would recommend students to spend first year in halls. You meet new people, make friends and have a safe, well-maintained place to live whilst you familiarise yourself with university life and living away from home.

There are so many ways to socialise at RVC. You can spend time using the College facilities, such as playing pool or watching television, or alternatively, you can venture out into the vibrant Camden Town and experience a wide range of pubs and clubs, go to the cinema or go out for a meal.London is a completely different world. Everything you could need is available in one city. There is something for everyone and there is such diverse culture that everyone fits in.

The RVC is such a friendly environment to work in, and both staff and students respect you. Students and staff are always happy and everyone looks out for one another so no one feels left out or isolated. Both campuses retain an intimate atmosphere that is rare at most university campuses.

After graduation, I would like to work as a mixed practice vet, working on farms and having consultations with small animals. This is so I can experience a wider range of animals and keep up to date with the medical advances in research for large and small animals.

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