Jacob Gordon first heard about the VSCP Program through 4-H and immediately recognized it as something he wanted to do. After buying the book and completing events and lessons during his eighth-grade year, he couldn't get enough of the subject. After his 4-H switched to individual study, he continued working through the book with a small group of friends. As soon as Jacob turned sixteen, he began working at the Katy Veterinary Clinic to acquire his 500 apprenticeship hours. Eventually, Jacob took his CVA exam during his senior year and passed with flying colors! He accredits this success to not only the curriculum, but the direct practice he got from working in the clinic. From here, Jacob knew that he wanted to pursue veterinary medicine as a career.
Although the book work and clinical hours were time consuming, Jacob kept working hard and was able to balance the curriculum in addition to his high school courses. He attributes this success to his strong work ethic and responsibility that he developed over the years. Jacob feels as though the lessons he learned through the Vet Science Certificate Program have certainly prepared him for college and his professional life.
Jacob’s favorite part of the curriculum were the farm trips and guest speaker events completed during the group study, although he notes that the hands-on work at the veterinary clinic was another favorite. He particularly enjoyed the clinical application of what he was learning in the curriculum.
If Jacob could give advice to students looking into the curriculum, he would absolutely encourage them to take on the challenge. Although the CVA exam is not an easy feat, with hard work and persistent studying, Jacob definitely agrees that the certification is both achievable and highly beneficial. For those currently working through the program, he suggests taking and keeping good notes from the book, as well as working with a small group of friends to move through the material.
Jacob was recently admitted to the Animal Science program here at Texas A&M University, and he hopes to eventually apply to veterinary school. Congratulations to Jacob on his successes with the curriculum and beyond! The VSCP wishes Jacob great success in his future educational endeavours!
