New vets on the block: Working environment for Paramount graduates of the highest standard

Many vets leave clinical practice before they are eight years qualified, and this needs to change, writes Irish Examiner Farming columnist Hazell Mullins.

Hazell Mullins presents the Veterinary Ireland Medal winner to Elle Kohler, who achieved the highest grade overall in the class of 2024 UCD. Picture: Paul Sherwood Photography

The cheers from the O'Reilly Building last week resonated across the entire UCD campus, you could feel the excitement in the air from the new graduate vets and their families. I was honoured to attend the event on behalf of Veterinary Ireland and present the Veterinary Ireland Award our to Elle Kohlar.

I remember my graduation as if it was yesterday - unfortunately, it was over ten years ago now - that feeling of disbelief that I was a fully qualified vet. My first decade as a vet has been so rewarding however certainly not without its challenges.