5 Mistakes Every New Vet Makes – And How to Avoid Them Like a Pro!
In the latest episode of Vet Candy IRL, host Dr. Shannon Gregoire tackles a topic that every new veterinarian can relate to: the 5 biggest mistakes veterinarians make in their first year—and how to sidestep them! This week, Dr. Shannon is joined by two incredible guests from Hometown Veterinary Partners: Dr. Dazjah Samuels, a 2024 Ross University grad, and Dr. Abi Maynard, a 2017 graduate from St. George’s University. Together, they dive into common pitfalls new vets face and share tips for navigating those early career challenges with confidence.
Meet the Guests
Dr. Dazjah Samuels is fresh from the class of 2024 at Ross University, bringing her current perspective on what it’s like to jump into the veterinary world right after graduation. Alongside her is Dr. Abi Maynard, who has been practicing since 2017 after graduating from St. George’s University. With years of experience, Dr. Maynard shares the lessons she’s learned and the strategies that helped her grow beyond those early mistakes. Their combined insights make this episode a must-listen for new and aspiring veterinarians.
The Top 5 Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
This episode doesn’t just highlight common mistakes—it’s all about providing actionable advice to help you thrive in your first year. Here’s a sneak peek:
Not Taking the NAVLE Seriously: Your first step to a successful veterinary career is passing the NAVLE. Dr. Samuels and Dr. Maynard discuss how putting in the time to thoroughly study and prepare can make a huge difference. They also share tips on how to avoid cramming and develop a consistent study routine.
Not Knowing Your Value: New graduates often underestimate their worth. Dr. Maynard emphasizes the importance of recognizing your skills and knowledge, even as a fresh graduate. Don’t be afraid to negotiate salaries, benefits, and work conditions that reflect your true value.
Getting Over Imposter Syndrome: Feeling like a "fake" vet is something many new grads struggle with. The guests open up about their own experiences with imposter syndrome and share practical ways to build confidence, seek mentorship, and trust in their training.
Not Setting Goals: Jumping into the veterinary world without a plan can leave you feeling lost. Dr. Samuels discusses the power of setting both short-term and long-term goals, whether it’s mastering a new surgical technique or building a strong client base. Setting clear goals helps you measure your progress and stay motivated.
Limiting Yourself: Don’t box yourself into a specific role too early. Dr. Gregoire, Dr. Samuels, and Dr. Maynard explore how to keep an open mind and be willing to explore different areas of veterinary medicine, from general practice to specialized fields. They remind new vets that there’s a world of possibilities waiting!
Why You Should Tune In
This episode of Vet Candy IRL is packed with candid stories, practical advice, and a healthy dose of humor. Dr. Shannon Gregoire brings her lively hosting style to the conversation, making this not only informative but also an enjoyable listen. The shared wisdom from Dr. Samuels and Dr. Maynard is perfect for new veterinarians ready to take on the world—or for seasoned pros looking to mentor the next generation.
Ready to make your first year count? 🎧 Tune in to this episode of Vet Candy IRL on your favorite podcast platform and get ready to embrace your value, set those goals, and overcome any hurdles you face in your veterinary journey. With insights from these incredible vets, you’ll be on the path to success in no time!
