Tips

When it’s quiet

Student tip: “There’s normally something which needs a really thorough clean and it’s a good way to get brownie points when it’s quiet!”

  • Ask someone if there’s something you can do to help – then do it, regardless of how tedious or unpleasant it is!
  • Try and show your initiative – is there anything you can do to prepare for jobs which will be started later or the next day?
  • It’s a good opportunity to practice anything you’ve been struggling with e.g. tying a good knot
Student quiet time on farm
  • Observe the animals (e.g. can I see and count their respiratory rate?), watch how they interact and how and why their behaviour changes – especially in species you haven’t had much contact with
    • As a vet you will need to know what’s normal before you can recognise abnormal
  • It may be quiet for you, but the staff may have paperwork, phone-calls and business to deal with
    • Again, be aware of your body language!