Written by Cynthia, Platt College

When you're applying to Veterinary Technology Programs, it can be exciting but also a bit nerve-wracking. You’ve likely spent years envisioning a career helping animals, and the application process is your gateway. But the path isn't always straightforward. Mistakes, even small ones, can derail your plans.

The good news? These common mistakes are completely avoidable. And the best part? Whether you're aiming for a Veterinary Technology Program or a Graphic Design Program, these tips can be adapted to help you make a standout application.

1. Procrastination is Your Worst Enemy

Let's face it, procrastination has claimed many victims, especially when it comes to college applications.

Picture this: You’ve set your sights on a competitive Veterinary Technology Program. You’ve told yourself you’ll get started next week. Then next week turns into next month. Before you know it, you’re rushing to meet the deadline, and mistakes happen. You forget to double-check your personal statement, miss out on asking for a recommendation letter, or skip proofreading. It’s a recipe for disaster.

Start early. Begin by researching your programs thoroughly, like those found in the Veterinary Technology Programs at various colleges. Give yourself time to edit, revise, and make your application the best it can be. This approach applies equally well to Graphic Design Programs or any other art-related field, like bioengineering or environmental science.

2. Generic Personal Statements Won’t Cut It

One of the biggest mistakes students make is submitting generic personal statements. Admissions officers can tell when an essay has been copied and pasted for multiple schools.

For a Veterinary Technology Program, this is a critical point. Think about the real reasons you want to enter the field. Was there a time you volunteered at an animal shelter and knew you wanted to spend your life helping animals? Talk about that specific moment. Tell your story in a way that’s both personal and compelling.

For Graphic Design Programs, don’t just say, “I like design.” Instead, discuss a project where you helped solve a problem creatively, like a design challenge where you had to consider both aesthetics and functionality.

3. Neglecting the Letters of Recommendation

You know that feeling when you need something, but you wait too long to ask for it? Yeah, it’s awkward. Don’t be that student who asks for a letter of recommendation at the last minute.

Recommendation letters are crucial, especially for competitive fields like Veterinary Technology and Graphic Design. For a Veterinary Technology Program, you might ask a former biology teacher or a veterinarian you’ve interned with. For Graphic Design Programs, a mentor who has seen your growth as a designer would be a strong choice. Start asking for these letters at least a month before the deadline to ensure your recommender has plenty of time.

4. Underestimating the Power of Experience

You might think that getting into a Veterinary Technology Program requires nothing more than good grades and a love for animals. However, practical experience speaks volumes. Admissions committees want to see that you’ve taken initiative to explore your passion outside of the classroom.

If you’ve worked at an animal clinic, volunteered at a zoo, or even just shadowed a vet, be sure to highlight these experiences. The hands-on element shows that you understand what the career truly entails.

Likewise, for Graphic Design Programs, don’t forget to build a portfolio that demonstrates your versatility. Have you designed posters for a local event? Worked on a digital marketing campaign for a small business? Share your story. Experience isn’t just about having the right skills but showing that you’ve applied them in real-world settings.

5. Overlooking the Importance of Deadlines

Deadlines might seem obvious, but missing them happens more than you’d think. The easiest way to avoid this common pitfall? Keep a calendar or set reminders on your phone for all application-related deadlines, including for Veterinary Technology and Graphic Design Programs.

If your application is late, it's game over, no matter how stellar your grades or experiences might be. Stay organized and stay ahead.

6. Failing to Personalize Your Application

It’s easy to fall into the trap of writing one application and sending it to every school. However, each Veterinary Technology Program is unique. For instance, some programs might emphasize research and science, while others may focus more on clinical experience. Make sure to tailor your application to fit what that specific school is looking for.

The same rule applies to Graphic Design Programs. Does the school specialize in digital media, or is it more fine arts-focused? Align your experiences and future goals with the specifics of that program. By doing so, you demonstrate a genuine interest in that institution.

7. Ignoring Financial Aid Opportunities

Let’s be real: College can be expensive. Whether you’re applying to Veterinary Technology Programs or pursuing Graphic Design, don’t overlook financial aid and scholarships. It’s easy to get caught up in perfecting your application and forget about these opportunities, but a little effort here can save you thousands in the long run.

Research scholarship opportunities specific to your chosen field. Some Veterinary Technology Programs might offer aid to students committed to working in underserved areas, while certain Graphic Design Programs could provide grants for innovative portfolio work.

8. Relying Solely on Academics

While academic performance is important, don’t rely solely on your GPA to get into your dream program. Admissions officers look for well-rounded applicants.

For Veterinary Technology Programs, showcase your extracurricular activities. Have you been part of a pre-vet club? Worked on animal welfare campaigns? All these experiences add depth to your application and show that you’re committed beyond just the academic side.

For Graphic Design Programs, creativity and originality are key. Admissions teams want to see students who think outside the box. Did you participate in a design competition or launch your own project? Talk about these in your application.

9. Not Preparing for Interviews

Some programs, including Veterinary Technology and Graphic Design, require an interview as part of the admissions process. If you’ve made it to the interview stage, congratulations! But don’t treat this lightly.

For Veterinary Technology Programs, prepare to discuss specific experiences with animals, your long-term career goals, and why you chose that particular program. It’s not enough to say you “love animals.” Be prepared to demonstrate your understanding of what the profession entails.

For Graphic Design Programs, you might be asked to present your portfolio during the interview. Practice discussing your work in a way that highlights your creative process, problem-solving abilities, and design philosophy.

Conclusion

Avoiding these common application mistakes can be the difference between receiving an acceptance letter and a rejection. Whether you're aiming for a Veterinary Technology Program or a Graphic Design Program, being detail-oriented, organized, and personalizing your application are key to success.

Remember, the process might seem daunting, but with preparation and attention to detail, you can stand out in a crowded field of applicants. Start early, stay focused, and soon you’ll be on your way to achieving your dream career.