The practice of veterinary medicine is not only an intellectual endeavour, but a technical and physical one as well. The ability to effectively diagnose and treat patients is dependent on our ability to perform technical procedures as simple as listening to the heart all the way to performing surgery. Regardless of the action, the only way to become proficient is practice. Unfortunately, it is a fact that we do not receive enough practical experience within the veterinary curriculum and must therefore supplement it with other external opportunities. The removal of the 4th year restriction will allow students to begin reinforcing practical skills earlier in their academic career and ultimately result in more competent and confident graduates.