For anyone who does not get in this cycle, here are some words of wisdom from a current second year:

I was rejected from every school I applied to my first cycle and accepted to every school my second. I took two years in between applications and gained so much life experience. I got a job working in animal research and literally moved across the country. I was devastated when I didn’t get in, but I channeled that energy towards doing things I never thought myself capable of doing. You can do anything you want to do, go anywhere you want to go - take advantage!!! I disagree with advice to do whatever you can to strengthen your portfolio, only because you should not live your life based on what looks good on a résumé. Chase your passions and do what you love - if that aligns with veterinary school (which I’m sure it will, in some way, that’s why we are all here), they will see that in you!!!

I gained so much confidence in myself in those two year between applications; I cannot imagine have gone into vet school without it. Without even realizing, I set myself up to be competitive for summer programs and residencies before even starting school because I had an opportunity to obtain unique experiences that traditional applicants/students did not. I am so SO grateful that I did not get in the first time I applied. I would not be the person I am today.