My dilemma

[michbich]

Next January is a big month for me, as I want to apply in a professional health school. Unfortunately, my original idea has somewhat shifted. For the ones that don't know my story: I quit my job as a machinist to study biochemistry to be eligible for dental school. As the time goes by, i seem to be drifting between optometry, veterinary and dentistry.

My first decisive factor is to help people (psychologically or physically), have hands on work at the same time but must also be a PhD. The more I think about it, the more dentistry has a unidirectional relationship with the patients and that does not appeal to me.

Because of that, I started to look elsewhere in the health profession. I looked around and found optometry and veterinary to be good alternative options. I would like to go all the way to med school, but I don't think my marks will be high enough.

Now my though question: If you had to choose one, what would it be and why?

My rules:
-I'm not close minded; you don't need to pick one of the three, just as long as it directly affects people and in healthcare.
-Consider the salary, hours and benefits to be the same.

[Mind'sEye]

First, you might want to explore the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.) route. It's a little less rigorous than MD but still has all the medical doctor options available in many hospitals and clinics.

Having said that, you're right about dentists. They are not particularly liked. My relationship with my optometrist is friendly but really he provides me with glasses and that's about it. If you're looking to help people physically and psychologically I think you can play an important role as a veterinarian. Our pets are our loved ones and the person we entrust to their care is very important. :twocents: Anyway best wishes and good on ya for wanting to make a difference.