Prior to beginning at VMRCVM, I lived in another state that allowed me to gain several years of hands on experience, developing skills similar to those of a licensed vet tech.  I feel that my experience was invaluable to my education. We begin learning practical skills in our first year of vet school,  however  we are limited to a couple of hours in one afternoon lab  to practice each skill taught.  The ability to continue to hone these skills following instruction in school would allow future doctors to not only be proficient, but excel.  Having the opportunity to integrate our knowledge and skills, such as performing a physical exam, interpreting X-rays and blood work, reviewing our ideas with a veterinarian, and administering treatments under their supervision, allows the best possible environment for learning. This amendment is not requesting license for vet students to practice unsupervised medicine, but for the opportunity to learn as much as we can from each veterinarian and animal we work with. I support it whole-heartedly and urge you to consider making the change.