From Texas to London: How Gizelle Martinez is Revolutionizing Veterinary Medicine and Inspiring the Next Generation
At just 24 years old, Gizelle Martinez is already making waves in the veterinary world, proving that passion, dedication, and a drive to break down barriers can lead to a transformative career. A second-year veterinary student at the Royal Veterinary College in London, Gizelle is not only on her way to becoming a skilled veterinarian but is also committed to advocating for diversity, mentoring the next generation, and carving out a unique path that blends her love for animals, education, and cultural inclusivity.
A Journey Fueled by Family and Determination
As the first-generation daughter of Mexican immigrants, Gizelle’s story is one of grit, determination, and immense pride. Growing up in Houston, Texas, she watched as her parents—who both emigrated from Mexico with little formal education—built a successful business through their hard work. "My parents are my biggest inspiration. They’ve sacrificed so much to provide me with opportunities they never had, and that has driven me every day to pursue my goals and break through the glass ceilings that may have existed in our family," Gizelle shares. Today, she’s proud to be the first in her family to pursue a career as a doctor, and her journey to veterinary school is a tribute to her parents' unwavering support and sacrifice.
A Life-Changing Adventure: Volunteering in Costa Rica
During her undergraduate years at Texas A&M University, Gizelle’s path took an unexpected turn that would shape the direction of her veterinary career. A two-week volunteer trip to Costa Rica at the Rescue Center Costa Rica, a wild animal rescue center, became the catalyst for her passion for working with wildlife. "Before this trip, I mostly saw myself working in a standard clinic with dogs and cats. But those two weeks changed everything. It reignited my childhood love for monkeys, and now I dream of one day working with primates in a veterinary setting," Gizelle recalls. This experience not only solidified her interest in wildlife medicine but also sparked a deeper desire to connect with animals in a meaningful way—whether in a rescue center, a zoo, or in the wild.
Humor, Empathy, and Curiosity: The Qualities That Shape Her
For Gizelle, the key qualities that have shaped her career and personal growth are humor, empathy, and curiosity. "Humor breaks the ice and creates trust. It’s so important, especially when working with people who are anxious or nervous," she explains. In addition to humor, Gizelle values empathy—a critical quality in veterinary medicine. "We’re always working with people, and understanding their emotions while helping their pets is vital. Empathy isn’t just about the animals; it’s about connecting with people on a deeper level."
The third quality, curiosity, drives Gizelle’s insatiable hunger for knowledge. Whether it’s through her academic studies, her volunteer work with kids, or her love for visiting museums and zoos, Gizelle is always seeking new ways to learn and grow. "I admire people who are constantly curious about the world, who question the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of things. I want to be that person, and I want to encourage that same curiosity in others," she shares.
Breaking Barriers: Diversity in Veterinary Medicine
One of the biggest challenges Gizelle sees in veterinary medicine today is the lack of diversity within the field. Growing up, she never saw a veterinarian who looked like her, and she’s determined to change that narrative for future generations. "Diversity in veterinary medicine is so important. It helps break stereotypes, build trust with diverse communities, and makes the field more accessible to people from all walks of life," Gizelle explains. As an ambassador for Animal Aspirations, an organization dedicated to engaging students from diverse backgrounds in veterinary medicine, Gizelle is working to encourage young, underrepresented individuals to pursue careers in the field. "If a veterinarian shares the same background, culture, and language as their client, that creates a sense of comfort and trust, and that’s what we want for all pet owners," she says.
A Bright Future Ahead: Veterinary Medicine and Beyond
Looking ahead, Gizelle’s future is full of possibilities. While she’s passionate about neurology, pathology, and wildlife medicine, she also sees herself working in academia and inspiring future generations of veterinarians. "If I weren’t a vet, I’d probably be a pediatrician or a teacher," she reflects. "I’ve always loved working with kids, and I love to teach. That’s why I’m considering academia later on in my career—to help educate and mentor the next generation of veterinary professionals."
Whether she’s spending time with kids through her work with Animal Aspirations or volunteering at animal rescue centers, Gizelle’s mission is clear: to make veterinary care more inclusive, more accessible, and more inspiring for everyone. "I want to help make veterinary care more accessible to all animals, through outreach programs, financial aid, and better awareness of pet insurance," she says, underscoring her commitment to making a difference both inside and outside the clinic.
A Rising Star in Veterinary Medicine
As one of Vet Candy’s Rising Stars for 2025, Gizelle is already making an impact. She is passionate about her work, her advocacy, and her mission to break down barriers in veterinary medicine. Her journey is just beginning, but it’s clear that her dedication, compassion, and drive will continue to shape the future of veterinary care for years to come. With a heart full of determination and a mind hungry for knowledge, Gizelle Martinez is a true inspiration for the next generation of veterinarians.
Follow Gizelle’s Journey
Keep an eye on this rising star as she continues to break barriers, inspire future generations, and make her mark on the world of veterinary medicine. Whether it’s through her work with wildlife, her dedication to diversity, or her passion for educating the next generation, Gizelle’s impact is only just beginning.
