It has been twenty two years of my life, and I never seem to be able to find what I like about myself. What I am sure about though, is that I want to be an animal doctor. A veterinarian, who is able to help the animals around the world, and this, is probably the only thing that I like about myself, the only thing I feel positive about.
It is questionable as to why I chose to be a veterinarian. I always have love for the sciences, not really the biology part. I did not do particularly well in high school for my biology and it turns out that my physic was worse than biology. Although I am slightly academically challenged, I make it up through my services for the community. I volunteer in many places such as the animal shelters, the barns and nursing home. I do not volunteer just to get the hours logged in; I enjoy helping the less fortunate as much as I love animals.
Because many people in my country do not spay or neuter their pets, there are many strays around our neighborhood in my country. It hurts to see they are starving and searching for food, some even died from starvation. At one point of time, I wished that I could help all the suffering animals in the world. Unlike humans, animals are creatures that do not keep secrets. Dealing with human patients sometimes may complicate some cases even more. Animals, on the other hand, show me how they feel and what they feel. They do not purposely hide their feelings when they want to.
Money is the root of all problems as the saying goes. Many have suggested that being a doctor could make one rich, though I highly doubt this suggestion. First of all, money is needed to further my studies in university, not to mention being an international student; my fees are higher than the other locals here.
I have the love for animals. I appreciate the value of life as if its life is my own. I remembered watching a video of a beautiful young lady in China stomped on a baby rabbit with her stiletto. It was a disgusting short video clip that was circulated through Facebook at one point of time. Fortunately the video was taken down and I hope the authorities have taken action on this lady and her friends for their animal cruelty.
In addition to that, being a veterinarian gets to know and understand animals, but they also get to know members of their community. Helping families save their pet, often regarded as a member of the family, can create a sense of deep fulfillment and job satisfaction. Veterinarians serve as a mentor and counselor to families during times of difficulty. The decision to euthanize an animal is not an easy one, but can be made easier with the support of a good vet. As such, vets help not only pets, but families.
I am someone who never lets go an opportunity when it comes by. I always try to work these opportunities and use it to my advantage. I can proudly describe myself that I am not a procrastinator like many people around me. I plan for my future almost every second of my life. I have gotten three scholarships in my life, these scholarships helped me in my most needed time. When I was 17, a year after I have decided to be a veterinarian, my mother was betrayed by her most trusted business partner. I do not fully understand how she felt literally, but I know this incident caused her to turn over a new leaf.
Despite having financial crisis, and despite objections from other family members, my parents encouraged me to pursue my ambition, they supported me and they give their best to me. They motivate me; they show me that nothing can be an obstacle if they can overcome it. They became my drive force and I know I will not give up no matter what. And so, I plunged myself into Chemistry major, the only science I’m good at with a minor in biochemistry, just to add a little of biology in there so I won’t die of boredom from raw chemistry.
I have shadowed doctors from totally two different locations. One in Malaysia, and one in the United States. Both provided me experienced that I could not ever imagine. Even though the purpose of both veterinary clinic and hospital are the same, they have given me different views on how the society treats their pets.
It was three years ago when I have shadowed Dr. Clement in Malaysia. I have to be emotionally strong especially dealing with clients and patients, so they know that the doctor is there for them. The first thing I noticed, that a veterinarian has to reassure their patients. It was a totally different experience in the United States with Dr. Pittenger, Dr. Rose and Dr. Garrou. Things were busy almost every day, especially a day after a weekend break. In addition to be emotionally strong, a veterinarian has to have the confidence to deal with clients and patients. Ultimately, it is more of a feeling than anything. I enjoy myself when I work, not yet a veterinarian, but when I shadowed a doctor. I want a career where I make a difference in the lives of people and animals. I want to educate pet owners about proper care and training. I want to reduce the problem of pet overpopulation. I want to ease animal suffering. I want to reduce human disease.
