So You Want to Be a Vet Tech? An Interview with Megan, Vet Tech in Training

From Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital – Your local vet clinic in Fargo, ND

If you’ve ever dreamed of working hands-on with animals every day, a career as a veterinary technician might be the perfect fit. Vet techs are the heart of any veterinary clinic—they perform blood draws, assist in surgeries, take x-rays, monitor anesthesia, educate pet parents, and offer compassionate care to pets in every stage of life.

To get an inside look at the journey, we sat down with Megan, one of our team members who’s currently working through the Penn Foster Veterinary Technician Program, an accredited online degree that allows her to study and gain clinical hours at the same time.

What made you want to become a vet tech?
"I've always loved animals, but I also really enjoy science and hands-on work. Being a vet tech is the perfect combination of those things. I like that we get to form relationships with both pets and their people."

What’s something surprising about the training process?
"There’s a lot of studying! Anatomy, pharmacology, clinical skills—it’s more than just cuddling animals. But it’s rewarding. You truly feel like you’re making a difference."

Do you have advice for someone considering this path?
"Shadow! Reach out to local veterinary clinics—like ours—and ask if you can observe for a day or two. You’ll get a real feel for the job and can start making connections in the field. Also, check out VetSetGo.com and IWantToBeAVeterinarian.org for ideas on how to get started, especially if you’re in middle or high school."

If you're looking for an in-person veterinary technician program, you're in luck! Two excellent options nearby include North Dakota State University (NDSU) in Fargo, ND, and Ridgewater College in Willmar and Hutchinson, MN. Both offer accredited vet tech programs with hands-on clinical learning.

At Two Rivers Vet Hospital, we’re proud to support the next generation of animal care professionals. If you're a student interested in shadowing or learning more about becoming a veterinary technician, please reach out! We’d love to help you take your first steps in this incredible field.