My proposition...opinions please (kinda long)...

But, lately I've been thinking about getting a bachelors degree in animal sciences, going to my grandparent's farm, and then starting up a dairy and crop operation. Those of you who who saw my pictures from a couple weeks ago know that I've got most of the equipment avalable and covered for the crop production, but the dairy not so much.

I have also thought about combining the two of these ideas, like completing vet school, practicing for a few years and then start into farming, except on a smaller scale, likly not having as many dairy cattle. This is what I'm leaning toward now, but want to get your opinions as well as my parents now so I have plenty of time to think about it. Also so you know, I'm a sophomore in high school, so I've still got a year to decide.

I want to here what you guys have to say, because honestly, there are many people on here that I respect their opinions nearly as much as my parents and other close family.Thanks a bunch, and if anyone has questions, please ask. Again, thanks and sorry about the long post
JohnDeereGreen

You state that you still have some time to decide, that's not necessarily the case. Even in high school you should be taking every biology, chemistry, physics and math (at least through calculus 1) class you can, and the key part, do well in them. In addition, they will tell you whether or not you have the brains for Vet School. Those classes are easier than they will be in college, and you'll need pretty much all A's in those college classes to even be considered for Vet School. I'm certainly not trying to dissuade you, just be aware of what is entailed.

I'm assuming you mean Oklahoma State, so here's a link, there's also some information on the pre vet option on the Dept. of Animal Science Website:

• Admissions Information

My niece started working for a vet when she was starting high school and quickly went from a shy little girl to a very confident student who knew what she wanted to do with her life. She is completing her second year of veterinary school at Michigan State right now and loves every minute of the training. It is great to see a young person identify their passion and get the proper training to make it their life’s occupation.

At 22 years old, I have a full time job, and i want to do a little farming on the side in the future.

Just remember to be paitient and eventually you will get to where you want to be.

When you are young and so full of enthusiasm (a great thing) you rarely stop to consider the down side of anything and perhaps being prepared to take a chance is a valuable asset...but before you decide realize this:

You have got to make a living, regardless of what you 'like' or 'enjoy', the bottom line is making it pay.

How many vets have you seen go broke? How many farmers have you known to go broke? The answers to these questions should help you decide which vocation to pursue full time and the other part time:)!

Start up costs in any venture are extensive, but I'll bet a dollar to a donut, that if you prepare your business plan..... (oh yes, you'll have to have one)....to your banker and it outlines a veternarian practice as opposed to dairy operation.....you'll be much more likely to get your money and well wishes. You see, a banker is there to make money too and he is only willing to finance projects destined to succeed.

You have a while....begin making observations around your community...talk to your local vets and ask them what they think, and talk to all your farmer neighbors....and LISTEN to what they tell you, even if it isn't what you want to hear. Good Luck.

Even bad boys are just as good as they can be

Either you'll survive being really efficient by being small and up close to what you do...using capital very, very wisely.

Or you'll survive by controlling enough capital to make investments in equipment and systems that make up for not using it the most wisely.

The mid-level guys who try to compete capital intensive without the deep pockets of the corporations are the ones in trouble.

Back to the original question, I'd aim to be a vet; and if I could make a living as a vet in that area, see if I could have the farm run by hired help...maybe doing organic beef instead of the more labor intensive dairy.