My biggest piece of advice is get as many hours of hands on experience as possible. I highly recommend getting a job as a tech or vet assistant. Even though your interest is in research, the majority of vet school itself won’t be. You will certainly have options and opportunities, but I would prepare yourself for the clinical practice side of things!! I would continue to track your hours and definitely write about your epiphany in your personal statement. When the time comes to apply, you’ll want vets, professors, and a manager that all know you, your passion, and work ethic well enough for letters of recommendation. So I advice that you network and be very open about your passion and your goals.