From Awkward Beginnings to Veterinary Neurology: A Journey of Growth

Growing up in a small New Jersey beach town 43 years ago, I was undeniably unique—a soul molded by unconventional circumstances. My childhood was marked by isolation and challenges that set me apart from my peers. Glasses, braces, and the stigma of coming from a divorced family rendered me invisible in social circles. Invitations to friends' houses were nonexistent, and bullying often filled the void left by companionship. These experiences led me to spend considerable time alone, but solitude became the crucible for discovering two passions: distance running and animals.

Finding Solace in Nature

While other children may have found comfort in pets, my family situation ruled out traditional companionship. My mother, a single parent working tirelessly to support my brother and me, did not have the bandwidth—emotionally, physically, or financially—to take on the responsibility of a dog or cat. Instead, my connection with animals blossomed in the wild. Birds, groundhogs, chipmunks, and squirrels became my confidants, and I embraced what I later affectionately referred to as a “Snow White” persona. Speaking to these creatures, I found a sense of peace that helped quiet the external chaos of the world.

Early Ambitions and a Path to Veterinary Medicine

As an introverted and observant child, I came to realize that success in life often necessitated a degree of conformity to societal norms. Yet, my love for science and animals allowed me to envision a career path that felt authentic and fulfilling: veterinary medicine. By the age of seven, the decision was made—I would become a veterinarian, no matter what it took.

I embarked on this journey with determination, taking a part-time job at a local veterinary hospital. What began as cleaning cages and answering phones soon evolved into opportunities to observe appointments and surgeries. While my peers spent weekends hanging out or enjoying carefree summers, I dedicated my time to studying and working at the clinic. This commitment continued through middle and high school, ultimately leading me to graduate from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and complete my residency in neurology and neurosurgery in 2012.

Choosing a Specialty: Veterinary Neurosurgery

You may wonder how I found my way into the highly specialized field of veterinary neurosurgery. The truth is, my decision was born from a place of insecurity, scarcity, and a relentless drive to prove myself. The moment that solidified my path came during a neuroanatomy class taught by Dr. D. While I was undeniably fascinated by the subject matter, my choice was influenced by overhearing two students mention that veterinary neurologists not only make the most money but also belong to the most challenging specialty to enter. The allure of being “the best” and achieving financial success was irresistible to me at the time.

Veterinary neurology remains a field I find deeply fascinating, yet I now recognize that my decision to pursue this specialty was driven more by a desire to compensate for feelings of inadequacy than by a sense of personal fulfillment. Success, as I measured it back then, revolved around being the top achiever and accumulating accolades.

Lessons Learned: The Unsustainability of Scarcity

My career path, forged from a mindset of “more is more,” has taught me a vital lesson: decisions born from insecurity or a sense of lack are ultimately unsustainable. Pushing oneself incessantly to meet external metrics of success—whether financial or status-oriented—can lead to burnout. True fulfillment, I’ve learned, comes from embracing enoughness and finding joy in the process rather than in the destination.

Though my journey into veterinary neurology was shaped by ambition and external pressures, it has provided me with invaluable experiences and growth. It allowed me to explore the depths of a field that is as challenging as it is rewarding, while also confronting the inner struggles that have shaped who I am today. My story is one of resilience and self-discovery—an evolution from awkward beginnings to a career that, though initially driven by external validation, has become a testament to personal strength and the enduring connection between humans and animals.

Sending you light on your own journey back to you.

xo,

Lauren Rae ✨