Priya - Roadmap to a Veterinarian
Updated: Aug 12, 2020
What do you do for a living? Concierge Veterinarian and Animal Acupuncturist
What does a day at your job look like?
I see animals in the homes of my clients. I assess symptoms, prescribe medications, create treatment plans, order diagnostic tests, and provide whole patient care...but the majority of my clients contact me to do acupuncture on their pets. Most appointments are scheduled, but I do urgent appointments on a case by case basis. I average about 1.5 hours with a patient.
What path did you take to get to this occupation?
Graduated high school --> Bachelors of Science in Psychobiology at UCLA --> Masters of Science in Equine Physiology at Cal Poly Pomona --> Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine at UIUC --> Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist at Chi Institute --> Certificate in Reiki Level I and Level II at Usui Shiki Ryoho Method of Natural Healing --> Launched my own integrative mobile veterinary practice Arya Animal Acupuncture & Healthcare --> Advanced Veterinary Acupuncturist --> Certified Veterinary Medical Manipulation Practitioner (aka "Animal Chiropractic") --> President of the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association
What are the Challenges of your job? (1-2 max)
1. Staying on time - I take the time needed to listen to pet owners. There is a great emotional toll that goes along with me being in the client's home. Veterinarians are not trained in counseling, but it’s a huge part of the job. Pets are often a lifeline for their people, especially those who have gone through a tragedy.
2. Convincing clients that thier pets are not suffering - animals can deal with chronic issues if they have a good quality of life.
What are the blessings of your job? (1-3 max)
1. I get to strengthen and empower the human-animal bond.
2. I love my job. I love what I do every day and I know a lot of people can't say that. I adore my patients. It is fulfilling to see patients and clients grow together and heal together.
What 3 characteristics do you have to possess or develop to do your job well?
1. A strong voice - many veterinarians are introverts and don’t know how to set boundaries or stand up for themselves. They accept payment below what they deserve and let clients walk all over them.
2. Compassion
3. Drive, and a commitment to hard work
What are 3 concrete things you’d tell someone on their journey to doing your job?
1. Education is key. Be proactive in getting the education and training you want. Nobody will give it to you if you don’t seek it out for yourself.
2. Use college as a means to try everything you think you want to do, so you know your future path
3. Learn how to serve
@Aryaacupuncture
