Module 4 - Ross University

Speaker's Introduction
- Philip Garrislow, National Director for Ross University School of Medicine.
- Engages with different universities to inform students about the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program.
- Has seven years of experience in admissions, conducting interviews.
Contact Information
- Email and phone number provided for students to reach out.
- QR code shared for more information regarding licensure.

AVMA Accreditation
- Ross University is accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
- Graduates are eligible to practice in all 50 states, Canada, and Puerto Rico without additional board exams.
Clinical Partners
- Provides 28 clinical partners in the US and internationally for student rotations.

History and Alumni Network
- Nearly 40 years of history with around 6,000 alumni practicing worldwide.
Financial Aid
- Students can apply for federal financial aid covering housing, tuition, flights, food, etc.
Facilities
- The campus features technologically advanced facilities, updated to match current veterinary medicine trends.

Program Timeline
- First 28 months: Basic sciences in St. Kitts (preclinical studies).
- Year of clinical rotations in the US follows.
- Non-traditional year-round classes with January, May, and September entries, each separated by approximately two-week breaks.
Accelerated Learning
- Continuous semester structure aids material retention without long breaks between terms.

Hands-On Learning
- Emphasis on hands-on training from the first week in anatomy lab with cadavers.
- Small group learning (4-5 students per group) for enhanced interaction with faculty.
Large Animal Teaching Facility
- Houses around 550 animals (horses, donkeys, cows, etc.).
- Students learn restraining techniques and perform required surgeries in later semesters.
Small Animal Clinic
- Functional clinic where students assist with surgeries and provide low-cost services to local populations.
Location of St. Kitts
- Geographically described with reference flights from US cities (e.g., Phoenix).
Transition Support
- Welcoming committee assists with transfers from the airport to on-campus housing.
- Encouragement for students to live on campus for a smoother transition, creating a collaborative peer environment.

On-Campus Living
- Fully furnished accommodations, with utilities included.
- Pet policy allows pets under 35 pounds (subject to health regulations).
Off-Campus Housing
- Database and support for moving off-campus after the first semester, with options close to school.
- Various housing options available including proximity to beaches and local amenities.

Clubs and Organizations
- Over 25 clubs available promoting different interests (e.g., animal welfare, student government, cultural organizations).
Mental Health Support
- Emphasis on mental health awareness and work-life balance.
- Student success center established to offer study techniques, mentoring, and counseling services.
- Collaboration among students is promoted over competition.

Guaranteed Clinical Rotations
- 22 US schools affiliated for clinical rotations.
- Students rank their top four choices based on GPA and availability.
International Opportunities
- Students may also choose to complete rotations in six international affiliates, all AVMA accredited.

Faculty Role
- Faculty primarily focus on education rather than research to better support students.
- Faculty diversity includes members from various countries, enhancing global educational experience.
Support Mechanisms
- Extra support available through office hours, extended lab session, and collaborative learning environment.

Diversity of the Student Body
- Includes a significant representation of career changers and diverse backgrounds.

Application Options
- Vemcast (vet school application service) allows multiple school applications.
- Direct application through Ross's website available with rolling admissions throughout the year.
Admissions Timeline
- Three start dates designed for a balanced intake of students.
Curriculum Requirements
- Requires standard prerequisites including biology, chemistry, and mathematics for a total of at least 48 college credits.
Holistic Review Process
- GPA is considered alongside academic trends and personal circumstances; average accepted GPA is around 3.2.
- GRE is optional but may strengthen an application.
Letters of Recommendation
- Requires two letters: one from a DVM and one from an academic reference.
Experience Requirements
- Minimum of 150 hours working with animals is mandatory (e.g., shadowing, veterinary tech roles).
Interview Process
- 45-minute virtual interview discussing motivations and experiences related to veterinary medicine.
- Encouragement to answer thoughtfully during the interview process, emphasizing personal journeys.

Possible Outcomes
- Acceptance, denial, and Vet Prep Program offered as a preparatory semester for students to strengthen academic skills.
Vet Prep Program
- A semester-long program focusing on foundational courses preparing students for the DVM program.

Tuition
- Tuition comparable to out-of-state tuition for private universities.
- Federal financial aid is available to assist with total costs of attendance.
Scholarship Opportunities
- Various scholarships available, including the alumni legacy scholarship contingent on alumni recommendations.

Additional Information
- Encouragement to utilize contact information for questions or further inquiries about the DVM program.