Becoming a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) is a career path that can bring about a lot of opportunities to really get into the field and learn. While a veterinary internship may not be completely necessary after graduation, seeking an internship opportunity after DVM graduation can be one of the best decisions you make for your career. While you will learn a lot of things as an intern, there are three primary values you will reap in the process. 

Mentoring 

No matter what kind of profession you are in, there are always certain things that you just don't learn from reading a book. Years of industry experience working with animals as a veterinarian can give professionals some of the best insight to share. This is why mentoring is such a valuable component in the veterinary internship process. You will no doubt come in contact with mentors who are willing to share their well-earned insight about the field that you can take with you as you move forward. For example, a mentor may be there to show you tips about dealing with exotic animals that may not be so widely covered in textbooks. 

Experience

Of course, one of the most valuable things you will garner as an intern is experience. Internships do not just take place at local veterinary offices and animal hospitals; so many places are willing to take on interns because they need the extra hands for help. For example, you may find an internship at places like: 

• Wildlife rehabilitation centers 
• Zoos 
• Animal reserves and nurseries 
• Large-scale livestock farms or ranches 

All types of places are going to yield you a new type of experience that can be valuable to you as you set out as a DVM yourself. Even if you just end up opening your own office, you will carry this added experience with you and it can only help you grow your service arena as a professional.

Clinical Training

Clinical training as a veterinary intern involves a lot of the so-called busy work that can come along with the profession, but it is so very important that you get this hands-on clinical training. You may spend time overseeing or assisting with surgical procedures, doing evaluations of pets, or even simply filling out patient records. While these may not be the most exciting tasks, they are pertinent parts of the job and your training will mean everything once you fill your eventual role.