This morning I returned home from speaking with veterinary students at Washington State University. I very much enjoy the opportunity to do this. I am able to learn so much from them and also give them some advice on how to become successful veterinarians.
It has been 8 1/2 years since my graduation from veterinary school. I can’t believe how fast time has flown by! It seems like just last week when I was saying farewell to some of my dearest friends and colleagues. Members of my class have traveled all over the world and have already left an impressive mark on the field of veterinary medicine. Many have completed residences and internships. Some are clinical pathologists, oncologists, zoo veterinarians, cow calf specialists, internal medicine and equine specialists, mixed animal practice owners and USDA food supply veterinarians. I am fortunate to have spent my veterinary school years surrounded by such exceptional people.
Looking back at my journey, I never would have imagined what the first eight years would entail. I have been knocked down several times, but have tried to get back up and move forward. Each struggle has been followed by myriads of opportunities. Timing and chance have tremendous bearing on each of our lives and careers. I have had successes and experiences that were not in my wildest dreams when I graduated. I cannot think of a profession that is more rewarding. I have had the opportunity to travel to many far away places to share some of the successes I have had with today’s veterinary students.
I always encourage students to be different and to follow their hearts. My advice to them is to always seek self-discovery and self-improvement. There is very little satisfaction when comparing oneself to others. So much time is wasted when trying to be better than someone else. The true test of success is measured when looking at your own improvement and progress. Are you better than you used to be? If you focus on being your best-self your potential is unlimited. When using others as a comparison, there will always be someone bigger, better or stronger.
Each of us are unique. Look at your thumb. Your thumbprint is a testament to your uniqueness. Your individual thumbprint is different than any of the billions of individuals that are alive today. No one ever has, or ever will have the same thumbprint. Your identity is as unique as your thumbprint. Your perspective and personality are not shared by any other person. These traits are arrows in our quiver of individual contribution. Why is it so difficult to acknowledge this? Self awareness is the key to harnessing and honing this uniqueness in a effective fashion. As we become self aware, we are able to visualize, assess, nock, draw back and place a precise arrow in the bullseye of our desired target.
Thank you to my many mentors who have guided me and made me what I am today.
I look forward with optimism at the journey ahead. I have followed my heart and intuition. It has been an exhilarating ride. I am excited for what the future holds. I have found my passion. I love what I do.
And that is my take!
N. Isaac Bott, DVM
DocBott 