As a veterinary student, you know how critical veterinary externships are to your success. There’s nothing like the experience of applying your academic knowledge in a real-world, clinical setting. Plus, building connections with experienced professionals is invaluable.  

Finding the right externship can seem daunting, but understanding the process can help alleviate the stress. Here you’ll find tips on how to secure a veterinary externship that suits your needs as well as how to make the most of your experience. 

1. Start Your Search Early

Each university is different, but starting your search at least six months in advance is a good rule of thumb. Many clinics, hospitals, and corporate veterinary groups offer structured externship programs.

Some places to look include:  

• Veterinary school career centers  
• Online job boards (AVMA Veterinary Career Center)  
• Veterinary hospital websites (check out our externship opportunities)  
• Networking with professors and practicing veterinarians  

Also, keep in mind, Blue River can help with any last-minute requests, just in case an externship you secured is cancelled or your schedule changes.  

Making the Most of Your Veterinary Externship

You’ve done it! You’ve secured the externship that best suits your goals. Now, it’s time to make the most of it. Here’s how: 

• Be Proactive: Ask questions, volunteer for tasks, and engage with the team.  
• Take Notes: Document what you learn, important cases, and techniques you observe.  
• Practice Communication: This is one of the most important soft skills to master. Learn how to explain diagnoses and treatment plans to clients clearly.  
• Build Professional Relationships: Stay connected with veterinarians and technicians who may become mentors or future employers.  
• Seek Feedback: Constructive criticism helps you grow, so ask for insights about your performance.  

Finding the Right Externship Fit​​

Not all externships are equal. Perhaps the biggest benefit of partnering with us is that you’ll work with experienced mentors dedicated to supporting you throughout onboarding and your full experience. Plus, with over 200 practices in our community, we can make “best fit” recommendations based on your specific goals, interests, and location preferences. We also work within your schedule, finding externships ranging from two to eight weeks, depending on your needs.  

Other benefits included:  

• Exposure to modern diagnostic tools and treatment methods 
• Opportunities to work with a variety of species, including large animals, exotics, and pocket pet patients 
• A collaborative, team-oriented environment 
• High-quality, well-equipped veterinary hospitals  

Additionally, we know funds are often tight for veterinary students. We offer a travel stipend to students completing externships for credit.

Setting You Up for Success

A veterinary externship is an exciting step toward your future career. Blue River PetCare is committed to shaping the next generation of veterinarians by providing hands-on learning opportunities in state-of-the-art hospitals nationwide. By researching early, preparing a strong application, and making the most of your experience, you’ll gain valuable skills that set you apart in the field.