What Got Us In: Personal Statement Advice with Cole Shapiro, DVM

What Got Us In: Personal Statement Advice with Cole Shapiro, DVM

Welcome to episode #37 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Today, we welcome Cole Shapiro back to the podcast. As a recent graduate of the Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Cole joins us for a discussion on the new 2026 VMCAS guidelines for the veterinary school personal statement. We read and reflect on three unique personal statements, exploring the different approaches successful applicants have taken to tell their stories. Whether you're just starting your application or polishing your draft, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and practical tips to help you craft a compelling personal statement of your own. Show Notes: Previous Personal Statements Episode [https://open.spotify.com/episode/1QwHr7zYjRXcKiPPbrRBMC?si=d252fabfbf394384] Emi Jones' Episode [https://open.spotify.com/episode/5tFqDxbULlgBXavQfO4w9F?si=55872c6228be40cc] If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review – it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you’d love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I’d love to hear from you! Follow us on Social Media! Instagram: @grace_gaynor @bacon_man7 Linked In: @Grace Gaynor

Food Is Love: Rethinking Pet Nutrition and Trust in Vet Med with Tiana O'Neill

Welcome to episode #36 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, first year veterinary student at VMCVM Tiana O'Neill returns to the show to explore a side of veterinary medicine that often sparks strong opinions, but deserves more open conversation: the independent pet food industry and the role it plays in shaping client trust. Before entering veterinary school, Tiana owned a specialty pet food store and co-owned a dog training and grooming business, giving her a unique perspective on how pet owners make decisions, and why those decisions are often rooted in something deeper than just nutrition. For many clients, food is an expression of love, and understanding that emotional connection is key to building stronger relationships in the exam room. Together, we discuss the disconnect that can exist between veterinarians and pet owners when it comes to nutrition, where trust can break down, and how communication plays a critical role in bridging that gap. Tiana shares insights from her experience in the independent pet food space, what veterinarians may be overlooking, and how we can approach these conversations with more empathy, curiosity, and collaboration. This episode challenges listeners to think beyond traditional recommendations and consider how trust is built in everyday interactions with clients. Whether you’re a veterinary student, practicing clinician, or simply interested in the human side of veterinary medicine, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how we can better connect with the people we serve. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you'd love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I'd love to hear from you! SHOW NOTES: Previous Episode [https://open.spotify.com/episode/7MeS57CcEEGpI2k5wTMSDH?si=9645efdc0123446b] with Tiana about balancing motherhood and veterinary school! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor LinkedIn: @Grace Gaynor

Entrepreneurship, Mentorship & Thriving as a New Grad with Dr. Dan Phillips, DVM

Welcome to episode #35 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, Dr. Dan Phillips from Mission Pet Health shares his journey to veterinary medicine, and how he went from a small animal rotation internship to building Vet Mentor Solutions to becoming a medical director. In his current role as Director of Academic Partnerships, Dr. Phillips teaches and mentors veterinary students across the country. We discuss what strong mentorship actually looks like, how to evaluate it when choosing your first job, and the red flags students should be paying attention to during the job search process. He also offers practical advice on building confidence and setting yourself up for success early in your veterinary career. Whether you’re preparing to graduate or just starting to think about your career path, this conversation provides honest insight and actionable guidance to help set you up for long-term success in veterinary medicine. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you'd love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I'd love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor LinkedIn: @Grace Gaynor

Scrubbed In: Balancing Motherhood and Vet School with Tiana O'Neill

Welcome to episode #34 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, first year veterinary student Tiana O'Neill joins me for a deeply honest conversation about navigating veterinary school as a mother, and what it really takes to balance both. Tiana shares what her life looks like managing the demands of vet school while being physically away from her children during the week, making regular five-hour trips home to Maryland just to spend time with them. Together we discuss the guilt, the sacrifices, and the resilience that comes with pursuing a demanding career while raising a family. Tiana also reflects on the support systems that make it possible, the lessons she’s learned along the way. This episode is a powerful reminder that there is no single path through veterinary medicine, and that it’s possible to chase your goals while still showing up for the people who matter most. Whether you’re a parent, considering vet school, or simply trying to balance life and career, this conversation offers perspective, honesty, and encouragement for the journey. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you'd love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I'd love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor LinkedIn: @Grace Gaynor

Scrubbed In: Inside Veterinary Pathology with Dr. Tom Cecere, DVM, PhD, DACVP

Welcome to episode #33 of Scrubbed In: The DVM Journey – the podcast where we dive into the wild, rewarding, and sometimes unpredictable world of becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. In this conversation, Dr. Cecere breaks down what pathologists actually do, how pathology connects to clinical practice, and why understanding disease at a deeper level can make you a stronger veterinarian, no matter what path you choose. He also shares insights into the training pathway, what makes someone a good fit for pathology, and the wide range of career opportunities available within the field. Finally, Dr. Cecere candidly shares his experience balancing research, teaching and family, while pursuing diagnostic excellence. For students who find pathology overwhelming, or aren’t sure how it fits into their future, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and a new appreciation for one of the most foundational areas of veterinary medicine. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate and review, it helps others find the show and join the conversation. And if you have any questions or topics you'd love to hear about, feel free to leave us a comment. I'd love to hear from you! Follow me on Social Media! Instagram: @scrubbedinthedvmjourney @grace_gaynor LinkedIn: @Grace Gaynor