ATHENS — The University of Georgia is offering high-school students the opportunity to explore the field of veterinary medicine before they start college classes through VetCAMP 2013, set for July 7-13. Registration is through Feb. 6.

The Veterinary Career Aptitude and Mentoring Program gives current high-school sophomores, juniors and seniors the opportunity to experience veterinary medicine through the clinical and research services offered by the UGA Veterinary Teaching Hospital, the Poultry Diagnostic and Research Center and the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories.

“We started VetCAMP as a way to expose students to the wide range of opportunities available in a career as a veterinary medical doctor,” said Dr. K. Paige Carmichael, the college’s associate dean for academic affairs. “Unlike other similar camps, we help students discover their true aptitude for a career in veterinary medicine and follow them through their undergraduate years with mentoring.”

Attendees will learn about requirements for admission into the UGA College of Veterinary Medicine, research programs, study abroad opportunities, the college’s veterinary curriculum and underserved specialties.

Registration is $900, which includes lodging on the UGA campus, meals, instruction and social activities. Financial assistance is available to students with demonstrated need. Students must complete a registration and teacher/counselor recommendation forms and an essay. To download a registration packet, go to www.vet.uga.edu/GO/camp. For more information, email lpettway@uga.edu or call 706-542-8411.