The Bel Rea Institute of Animal Technology

Date: Feb 20 2004
Major: PreVet and Veterinary (This Major's Salary over time)
Bel-Rea is academically challenging for most people. The classes do not allow for much work or free time. And you will need to work to pay for rent because financial aid will not be able to cover the exorbitant costs of the program, much less living expenses. At Bel-Rea one of the most important things you can be is popular and part of the group. Grades come second BUT be forewarned, both popularity with the staff and grades will be important when you try to apply for an internship. If you are the best tech in your class, one that has worked in clinics for 10 years, or the only person in the school to have never touched an animal doesn't matter, grades and getting in good with the right people is what you will have to strive for. The leading lady at Bel-Rea is a totally condescending and rude person. I actually caught she and the registrar gossiping very hatefully about one of my classmates and what they were saying was the total opposite of what they had told my classmate. They all put on the smiley face when there are problems but nothing is ever done to help or solve any issues for a student. And definitely check into the costs vs. salary issue. You will never make enough as a regular clinic tech to pay your student loans back. Transfer of credits??? FORGET IT. If you have to move and must transfer out of Bel-Rea you won't be taking any credits with you. Most other colleges and vet tech programs say that Bel-Rea is not regionally accredited so none of those credits transfer. If you transfer to a school that has an "articulation agreement" with this school be careful…I did this and only 30 of my credits transferred and they were all counted as electives, so I ended up starting over to obtain a bachelors. If you are just looking for a tech certification you can get it much much cheaper elsewhere. Just look on the AVMA site at accredited schools in your area. All of the listed schools teach the same program and many cost just a fraction of what Bel-Rea charges. I wish I had researched this more before I was romanced by this school. Don't be blind-sided by Bel-Rea. Research. There are places where your money and time will be more well-spent. Thanks!