What were you doing before attending Sprott Shaw College?
For the past 15 years and counting, I’ve worked with a family that has a daughter with special needs. Over the years, my responsibilities have evolved from caregiver, cook, chauffeur, and pet sitter to house manager.
Why did you choose Sprott Shaw College?
I wanted to attend school while continuing to work, and I came across Sprott Shaw. I had heard from a previous acquaintance that the school has a strong track record of helping students successfully find employment.
How was the admissions process?
I was nervous at first when I inquired. I had been out of school for many years. Although I had attended continuing education at a different college and upgraded a few courses, I wasn’t sure if I would get accepted. A friendly advisor assured me that the school would review my transcript and help me find the program that best suited my goals
What program did you choose and why?
I initially chose the Pharmacy Assistant program, but it was offered at a different location and I only wanted to attend the Victoria campus. The Veterinary Assistant program was mentioned, and since I have experience looking after my employer’s cats and dogs, I thought it would be beneficial to learn more.
What was the environment like during your time at Sprott Shaw College?
Class at Sprott Shaw was done mostly online. Part of our learning is done through oral presentation, and I am a nervous person, but my classmates are all encouraging and patient, never discriminate; however, the presentation is done as long as you follow the guidelines. Our instructor is accommodating and has a positive mindset.
Where was your Practicum & how was it?
My practicum clinic is Elk Lake Veterinary Hospital, with 100 hours or 3 weeks. I learned a lot during my time there, staff/s are helpful and super nice! And as my way of thanking them all, I continued as a volunteer until my work schedule changed.
How long did it take you to find a job after graduation?
I finished my practicum in March, by July I was hired.
Where do you work? And can you explain your duties?
I work at Evergreen Veterinary Dentistry Services in Langford. My duties cover a wide range of responsibilities. I prepare the surgical table and dental instruments for each scheduled case daily. I calibrate the cone beam CT and take images of patients. I assist in scanning dental X-rays and entering them into the Metron software. I also support the specialist and her technician during surgeries. I’m grateful to the practice owners for allowing me to continue learning dental positioning. I help restrain animals for various procedures and during consultations, perform cleaning duties, and sterilize instruments using the autoclave. Recently, as of this writing, I’ve been trained to take final payments from clients when their companion animals are ready to go home after surgery.
If you could advise someone coming to Sprott Shaw College, what would you say?
Read ahead of time! Try not to procrastinate or miss schoolwork due dates. During my time, we never had open-book exams, so I studied, studied, studied but I also made sure to take breaks, and getting a good night’s sleep really helped.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Patience goes a long way! Show appreciation to your instructors by attending your graduation ceremony!
Violeta Eldridge
Veterinary Assistant