All because of my little fluffs...

[Clairealex]

Apologies for the long story. I'm just so excited and nervous!

So today I made a decision to completely change and to do something with my life that makes me feel that it's meaningful.

I've decided, after almost a year of thinking about it, talking about it, speaking to people already working in the industry, to apply to study Veterinary Medicine at uni.

I graduated with an English Lit degree 3 years ago when I was 22. I got a job in advertising/publishing and have been plodding away ever since. It didn't take me long to realise that I didn't want to do this forever, but by that point I had bought a flat and car, and needed the money. So I've kept on at it, hoping I would start enjoying it again one day. But every day just feels so meaningless. I work hard to make someone else rich.

Id always toyed with the idea of being a vet, although I always felt somehow that I just wasn't clever enough. But after experiencing Chubs, with all his health issues, I know that I'm more than capable of learning all I need to know.

It'll be a really hard 6 years. I have to do a years access thing because I'm technically a (gulp) mature student and haven't studied a science based subject at uni level before, as well as find a part-time job and a volunteering position. But I have a few things lined up.

I'll start in October, and hopefully by this time next year, I'll be getting ready to successfully complete my first year and make my into the full vet degree. It's a scary thought to think that I'll be back to being a student, I've gotten so used to the 9-5.

So nervous but so excited. And it's all thanks to my two fluffy wee guys. It's unbelievable how they can literally change your life

[racinghamster]

Wow Claire, that`s very exciting news and a brave decision, but also one you must follow if your head and your heart are leading you down that path. Sometimes we have to have the courage to follow out intuition. I wouldn`t be brainy enough in the maths department to be a vet! I studied graphic design in college way back in 1988! I never did bother working in that sector as I got a little fed up near the end and didn`t persue it.

The world needs more small animal exotics, so maybe that`s where your goal should be?

[souffle]

I wish you all the best in your future studies Keep us posted about how things go. They sure need small animal specialists in the UK

[Wexland]

Wow well done. Definitely life is too short not to try to pursue our dreams.

[Bec]

That is a massive life-changing and exciting decision, well done and wish you all the best! Life is too short and sometimes you need to step into the unknown and take these opportunities.

If it feels right to you then its always the right decision!

Do keep us updated. Well done

[Clairealex]

Thanks guys

It feels like such a massive thing to do, but I'm sure this is what I want to do with my life. Just wish id figured it out sooner!

The way I see it, I'll be working until I'm about 80 at this rate. May as well try to make them happy!

I do plan to focus on small animals, of course

[essentiallysue]

I am 76 years old, and I can tell you, 6 years is not a long time. It will pass quickly. Go for it!

[Clairealex]

Thanks essentiallysue!

It was my dad who said to me 'well the time will pass whether you do it or not' and it just made so much sense. If I don't make a start, then I'll be a few years forward, looking back, wishing I had started it now, if that makes any sense!

[fluffydd]

I think you've made a fantastic decision and knowing how much caring and love you give to Eric and Chub I'm sure you'll be a wonderful vet.

[jemmalg]

Good for you! Best of luck with it