May I contact the admissions office on behalf of my child or spouse/partner?
Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine welcomes questions from family members seeking general information. However, due to privacy regulations (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act; FERPA), specific details regarding an applicant’s file can only be discussed with the student directly. We encourage you to support your student to reach out on their own.
How can I support my child or spouse/partner during veterinary school?
All American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council of Education (COE) provisionally or fully accredited veterinary programs are academically and emotionally rigorous. During the first three years of the program, your DVM student will be taking full days of classes, laboratory work, and hands-on skill training. Most evenings and weekends will need to be devoted to studying and practicing hands-on skills. During the last year of the program, your DVM student will be learning full time by completing clinical rotations and externships in veterinary practices within Arkansas, the Midwest, and potentially nationwide.
With the academic rigor and the stress of being responsible for patients’ lives, some students may feel isolated from friends and family. Support can take several forms such as providing them encouragement, a listening ear, and patience when they spend time studying with their peers rather than participating in family activities. Additional ways of support include preparing meals or providing them a meal-kit subscription or University meal plan, or assisting with their pets. You can remind them that it is okay to ask for help. Due to the rigors of the program, students may need help in veterinary school when they have not needed help before. Remind them to take breaks and try to spend some time with their families and spouses. Even small acts of support such as simply checking in regularly can make a significant difference.
Can family members attend orientation or visit during the school year?
A portion of orientation will be open to family members to help them better understand the veterinary program and how to support their student. There will be opportunities to answer questions from family as part of this orientation. We will provide more information directly to your veterinary student closer to matriculation.
Families are welcome to attend public events hosted throughout the year by Arkansas State University. These events can be viewed on A-State’s Campus Calendar.
What should I do if my child or spouse/partner is struggling but unwilling to ask for help?
Veterinary school may be the first time your student has needed to seek support. It is common for veterinary students to hesitate seeking support. Encourage an open dialogue about their challenges. Suggest they speak with the Office of Student Programs or a trusted faculty member, advisor, or counselor. The CVM is committed to student success and offers academic and mental health support.
