It is no secret that I was (and still am) kind of intense.

Applying to veterinary school is incredibly competitive, especially as an out-of-state student, and at the time I felt like my entire world was centered on getting in and becoming a veterinarian. 

I was constantly pushing myself to do more, be better and build the best application possible. People would say, “Don’t compare yourself to other applicants,” and I remember thinking, “How is that even possible if I’m trying to build the best application?”

Reading about other people’s scores and hours of experience was overwhelming, but more than anything, it added to the pressure I was already putting on myself. I struggled with how to stay focused on my own path without getting consumed by that pressure.

After being accepted at NC State, I assumed that the pressure would finally stop and that I’d be able to relax, but it was much harder to actually do that. I felt caught between wanting to enjoy the process and staying in that constant go-go mindset, always competing with, to be honest, myself. I felt this need to be the best, and it was difficult to turn that off.

That constant self-pressure is natural, especially in an environment where everyone is talented and driven. But to stay grounded in vet school, you need a village. That includes not only your friends and family, but also your colleagues and the friendships you build along the way. 

I found peace in not constantly pushing myself to the point of burnout and in celebrating the success of others. It didn’t come naturally — it took work — because I felt like I had spent my whole life competing for the next opportunity and raising the bar for myself. But having colleagues, mentors, friends and family who supported me and helped me keep perspective made a huge difference.

While in school, I also made a conscious effort to work on myself. I traveled when I could, got married and started setting healthier boundaries around my time off. I became more intentional about truly enjoying the moment instead of constantly pushing myself to do more. Over time, I realized that I didn’t need to spread myself thin or try to be the “crazy overachiever.”

I loved my time at NC State. I learned so much, I had fun, I made amazing friendships that will last a lifetime, and I got to let go (and am still working on letting go) of some of that constant internal pressure. I learned that there is room for everyone to shine and excel and that I want to do my part to help others get there, too.

For students who are trying to get here or are already in the process: You’ve got this! It’s OK to feel pressure and to push yourself, but don’t lose yourself in the process. Trust that what you are doing is enough, trust the process and trust yourself.