What classes should I take for pre-veterinary studies?

Hey everyone, I'm a junior and very much interested in pursuing pre-veterinary studies in college. What kind of classes should I be taking in high school to prepare myself? Are there any specific courses that would help me get ahead?

Hey there! It's great that you're interested in pre-veterinary studies. To prepare yourself for this path, you should focus on taking a variety of science and math courses in high school, as these subjects are essential for pre-veterinary students. Here's a list of classes that could be helpful:

1. Biology: Most definitely take regular biology, and if possible, try to take AP Biology or any advanced biology courses your school offers.

2. Chemistry: Take regular chemistry and consider taking AP Chemistry or an advanced chemistry course, as understanding chemical principles is important for veterinary medicine.

3. Physics: At least take regular physics, though you can also consider taking AP Physics if you want to further strengthen your scientific foundation.

4. Math: Aim to take math through at least pre-calculus or AP Calculus (AB or BC) to ensure a solid mathematical background.

5. Animal Science/ Zoology: If your school offers an animal science or zoology course, that would be a great elective to help you gain knowledge about the animal world.

6. Advanced Placement (AP) or honors courses: Enrolling in these classes will demonstrate your dedication to academic rigor and challenge you to develop a solid foundation in the sciences.

7. Extracurriculars: Get involved in clubs or organizations related to animals, such as volunteering at animal shelters, participating in 4-H, or exploring internships or job-shadowing opportunities with local veterinarians. This will help you gain experience and show colleges that you're passionate about working with animals.

In addition to these classes and activities, also focus on maintaining a strong GPA and doing well on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, as these factors are important for college admissions. You'll want to research specific veterinary schools' prerequisites and tailor your class choices to meet these requirements. Make sure to consult with your high school guidance counselor for personalized advice and recommendations on the courses available at your school. Good luck!