She Became a Vet Student at 27 With a Toddler—Now She’s Proving Everyone Wrong
When Rachel Woodhouse stepped into her first day of vet school at University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) at 27, she wasn’t your average first-year. With a toddler on her hip and years of life experience behind her, she carried something even more powerful than straight A’s—a story of resilience, determination, and purpose.
“I’ve taken a slightly less traditional path into veterinary medicine,” Rachel shares. “But every step—every challenge—has made me more determined to get here.”
Now a first-year veterinary student and proud mum, Rachel is one of Vet Candy’s 2025 Rising Stars. Her journey is inspiring a new generation of future veterinarians who don’t fit the typical mold—and she’s showing them that it’s not only possible to reach their goals, but thrive while doing it.
“The Time Will Pass Anyway”—The Advice That Changed Everything
After already completing three years of college and four years of university, Rachel had her doubts about committing to five more years of education. “I read a quote that said, ‘The time will pass anyway,’ and it just stuck,” she says. “I thought—five years will go by no matter what. So why not spend them doing something I love?”
That shift in mindset gave her the clarity to follow her dreams, even if the timing wasn’t what she’d once imagined. “I stopped worrying about timelines and started focusing on what I actually wanted for my future.”
From Veterinary Nurse to Vet Student—Fueled by Grit and Passion
Rachel first became a veterinary nurse—and did it while juggling motherhood. “I had my daughter in my first year of university while studying vet nursing. Balancing that with full-time studies wasn’t easy, but I still graduated with First Class Honours.”
That achievement could’ve been the end of her academic journey, but she knew her calling went further. “I constantly challenge myself. I knew I wanted to be a vet, so I kept going. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s worth it.”
Her superpowers? Determination, resilience, and an unwavering belief in what she’s capable of.
Breaking the Mold—Why Vet Med Needs More Non-Traditional Voices
Rachel’s story is a powerful reminder that there’s no one “right” path into vet med. “I wasn’t your typical straight-A student. I studied drama, PE, and art—and I even failed maths,” she laughs. “But I still made it. We need more vets with real-world experience and different perspectives. My uni sees the value in that, and I hope more follow.”
She’s passionate about opening doors for others who may not have followed the conventional route. “Diversity in backgrounds strengthens our profession.”
Real Talk: The Public Doesn’t Understand the True Cost of Vet Care
One of Rachel’s biggest concerns? The disconnect between the public and veterinary professionals when it comes to the cost of care. “There’s this idea that vets are the ones setting prices, when really, it’s the cost of running a clinic—equipment, medications, overhead. We’re lucky to have the NHS, but that skews public perception.”
The result? Unrealistic expectations—and sometimes harsh criticism—toward the very professionals trying to help. “It’s hurtful when clients accuse us of only caring about money. That kind of judgment wears on you. It impacts mental health. And sadly, it’s pushing some amazing people out of the field.”
A Mission That’s Bigger Than Herself
Rachel’s why is clear: “I want to be a voice for those who don’t have one. I’m here to advocate for animals—physically, mentally, emotionally—and also to educate the public.”
But her biggest reason? Her daughter. “I want her to know you can chase your dreams, even when the path is messy or delayed. I want her to grow up knowing she can speak up, stand tall, and go after what’s right.”
Why Rachel’s Story Matters
Rachel isn’t just studying veterinary medicine—she’s helping redefine who gets to wear the white coat. She’s living proof that with grit, purpose, and heart, the “non-traditional” path can be the most powerful of all.
“If my story helps even one person feel like they belong in this profession, then it’s been worth it.”
And that’s exactly why Rachel is a Vet Candy 2025 Rising Star.
