Navigating a VTS application can be very daunting. Obtaining a mentor can help avoid many pitfalls that can result in rejection. Here are some key elements a mentor will help with:
  • Choosing case logs and reports that will highlight your expertise
  • Advising the best CE options that will most likely be accepted
  • Reviewing of select case logs and reports to advise on content and writing skills
  • Helping decide who would be the best people to write your letters of recommendation
  • Answering all the little questions that will inevitably pop up
  • Sharing their own personal tips that helped them get through the application process successfully
  • Being your personal cheerleader!

A few words of advice to applicants:

  • Check the website regularly for updates, tips, and current information.
  • Join our AVTCP Applicants Facebook page:  www.facebook.com/groups/475314892555064
  • Submit your request for a mentor as soon as you decide to apply.
  • Do not procrastinate. The year will pass quickly and leaving things to the last few months will be overwhelming.
  • Take notes on every and all cases and choose  your favorites! The case logs and reports are your opportunities to show us what you know. Choose cases that highlight your skills and that you loved working on.
  • Remember not all cases need to be novel or unique. Assisting with a new puppy exam can demonstrate tremendous expertise if done well- BUT, you should show how you managed that new puppy exam in an expert fashion. For example: describe how you communicated the importance of preventive medications, addressed behavioral concerns, or used Fear Free tactics to make the visit exceptional for the client.
  • Don't hesitate to reach out to your mentor or a member if you need help. But remember, mentors are also working hard and may not be able to reply in the time frame you need. So use other resources: Facebook AVTCP page or Applicants page, avtcpinformation@gmail.com, or reach out to the mentorship chair at avtcpmentorship@gmail.com. Your success is our success! 
  • Research and use proper scientific writing . Applications may be complete, but if the writing style and grammar are not professional and scientific, it could still fail. Writing labs or workshops such as owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/ may be helpful! Read journals and text books and pay attention to the writing styles there, as we are looking for writing that is of that quality. And be sure to proofread multiple times- utilize people you may know to also proofread for you! The more eyes on your writing, the more chances to catch errors.

Mentorship Disclaimer

Our mentorship committee is made up of current AVTCP member volunteers. Some may have recently credentialed, others may have been members for many years. And over the years, our application process evolves and shifts, so while we make all efforts possible to ensure our mentors have the most current information, it is possible that they could be wrong about current application requirements. As an applicant, it is your responsibility to make sure that you are following the rules of the application for your application year. The mentor is there to help and share their experiences with you, but it is not their responsibility to ensure you pass. While they can give critiques of your writing, there is no guarantee that your case logs or reports will pass just because your mentor says they believe it should. If you have concerns that your mentor is giving you incorrect information, please reach out to AVTCPinformation@gmail.com.