Personal Statement Examples: Veterinary Medicine
The personal statement format has changed slightly for the UCAS 2026 entry and students will now answer three specific questions. Each question gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your passion, preparation, and commitment to studying veterinary medicine. Below, we walk through strong and weak examples for each question to help you craft the best response.
Question 1: Why do you want to study this course or subject?
Good Example:
“My interest in veterinary medicine began as a child growing up around animals—my family always had pets, and I was particularly fascinated by our local vet’s ability to calm and care for even the most nervous animals. One turning point came when I volunteered at an animal rescue centre and witnessed the recovery of an injured greyhound. I was deeply moved by how the vet not only treated the physical injuries but also adapted care to the animal’s behaviour and stress levels. This showed me how essential empathy is in veterinary work.
What excites me about becoming a vet is the wide scope of the profession—from diagnosing complex medical conditions to contributing to public health and animal welfare. It combines my love of science, particularly biology and problem-solving, with a lifelong desire to care for animals and support the communities they’re part of. Veterinary medicine is where my academic interests and personal values align perfectly.”
Why this is good:
- Personal story provides a clear origin for the interest in veterinary medicine.
- Shows genuine passion with both emotional and scientific insights.
- Connects personal motivations with broader professional understanding (e.g. animal welfare, public health).
Poor Example:
“I want to study veterinary medicine because I really love animals and I think it would be a great job. I’ve had pets all my life and have always thought about becoming a vet. I also like science and want to do something that helps animals and people. It’s a secure and respected profession, which I think would suit me well.”
Why this is poor:
- Lacks depth and specific experiences—“love animals” is too general without evidence or reflection.
- Does not demonstrate an understanding of the full scope of the profession.
- Motivation sounds superficial and career-focused, rather than driven by genuine curiosity or compassion.
Question 2: How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
Good Example:
“My A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Psychology have directly supported my preparation for veterinary medicine. Biology has been particularly valuable for understanding animal physiology, cell structure, and disease mechanisms—knowledge I applied during a school dissection project on mammalian organs. Chemistry has helped me understand reactions involved in pharmacology and drug formulation, which will be essential in a veterinary setting. Psychology has improved my understanding of behaviour, particularly in terms of stress responses—important when handling nervous or aggressive animals.
Additionally, my Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) focused on the ethics of animal testing. This not only improved my research and academic writing skills but deepened my appreciation of the complex decisions vets face regarding animal care, scientific progress, and public health.”
Why this is good:
- Clear, subject-specific connections to veterinary practice.
- Demonstrates both technical and soft skill preparation.
- Includes an example (EPQ) that goes beyond the curriculum, adding further insight.
Poor Example:
“I’ve studied Biology and Chemistry at A-Level, which are both important for veterinary science. We learned about things like cells and chemicals, which I think will help when studying animals. I also did some work on animal behaviour in psychology, and I think this will help too. All of these subjects are useful for a career in veterinary medicine.”
Why this is poor:
- The links between subjects and veterinary medicine are vague and lack substance.
- No specific examples or demonstration of deep understanding.
- Doesn’t reflect on how these studies have shaped the applicant’s skills or insights.
Question 3: What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?
Good Example:
“To prepare for a career in veterinary medicine, I completed two weeks of work experience at a mixed animal practice, where I shadowed vets performing surgeries, routine vaccinations, and farm visits. I saw firsthand the variation in cases and the importance of adaptability, communication, and decision-making under pressure. I also helped at a local cattery for six months, where I fed, cleaned, and monitored the behaviour of cats—giving me practical skills in animal handling and welfare.
Volunteering at an animal-assisted therapy programme showed me how animals can support human wellbeing, while also teaching me patience, empathy, and teamwork. Additionally, I play hockey for my school and act as vice-captain, which has improved my leadership and time management—qualities I know will be essential in a veterinary setting.”
Why this is good:
- Shows a wide range of relevant experiences across clinical and voluntary settings.
- Each experience is tied to specific skills or insights relevant to being a vet.
- Demonstrates commitment, initiative, and reflection.
Poor Example
“I did some work experience at a veterinary clinic and saw a few operations, which was really interesting. I also volunteer sometimes at an animal shelter and walk dogs. I enjoy sports and I think this has helped me be more organised and learn how to work with others.”
Why this is poor:
- Lacks detail about what was learned or how experiences shaped the applicant.
- Doesn’t link back to veterinary medicine in a meaningful way.
- Sounds passive and does not show reflection or progression.
Final Tips for Your Veterinary Personal Statement (UCAS 2026)
Answering the new UCAS personal statement questions requires thoughtful reflection and clear examples. To stand out:
✅ Share specific experiences that shaped your interest in veterinary medicine.
✅ Link your studies to the profession—demonstrate how they’ve prepared you.
✅ Show who you are beyond academics, focusing on the values and soft skills that make a great vet.
✅ Reflect honestly—avoid clichés like “I love animals” without explanation or context.
If you want more support, speak with one of our veterinary personal statement tutors to get expert feedback and craft a personal statement that truly reflects your strengths and passion for veterinary medicine.
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