Learning differently, succeeding fully: Reanne McDonald

Posted on: 28 August 2025 by Christina Ratcliffe (BVSc 2020), Communications Officer for the University of Liverpool Veterinary Alumni Association in Community

We caught up with recent graduate Reanne McDonald (BVSc 2024) to mark National Inclusion Week (15-21 September 2025). She shares her experiences both from her time as a vet student at Liverpool and as a recent graduate, and has encouraging words for current or prospective students with learning differences.

What support made a difference to you while at vet school?

The support that made the biggest difference to me during vet school came from a combination of people and environment. My friends—both those on the veterinary course and those studying other subjects—played a huge role in keeping me grounded and giving me perspective outside of the academic pressure. It really made all the difference.

Liverpool city itself is full of life! It’s such a vibrant, diverse place with so much going on! Whether it was going for a walk along the docks, visiting the beach, exploring independent cafes, or attending live music or cultural events, I always found something to help me recharge. On reflection, this was a huge source of support in an unexpected way.

The University fostered a welcoming, supportive, and sociable culture that made a lasting impact on my experience. As a veterinary student, I had the privilege of being taught by practicing clinicians who brought real-world insight into our learning. As someone with dyslexia, I also felt genuinely supported; my individual learning needs were understood and accommodated, which ensured I was able to thrive alongside my peers. The lecturers were approachable and genuinely invested in our success, which kept me motivated and confident throughout the course.

What have you been doing since graduating, and what have been some highlights or challenges so far?

Since graduating, I’ve been working as a veterinary surgeon here in the UK, and it’s been a hugely rewarding experience so far. I’m really enjoying the job and learning every day. There’s a constant stream of new situations and challenges that keep me growing, both clinically and personally. It’s been great to see how much of what I learned, from practical skills to communication and problem-solving, has translated directly into my day-to-day work.

One of the biggest transitions has been the shift in responsibility. Moving from being a student to the person responsible for a patient is a big step, and it’s something I still feel every time I take on a new case. The quiet weight of responsibility is hard to put into words, but it’s very real and something I’m still adjusting to.

I do miss university life, especially the social side and the constant closeness with peers.

Do you have any advice for current or prospective students with learning differences who are thinking about a veterinary career?

Veterinary is for everyone!

My biggest piece of advice is “you can do it”! Having a learning difference doesn’t mean you’re any less capable, it just means you might need to approach things a little differently, and that’s completely okay. The key is being in the right environment where you can thrive. Don’t be afraid to speak up about what you need whether that’s extra time, different formats for learning, or just someone to talk to.

You’re not alone. There are so many people in this profession who think and learn in different ways, and veterinary schools are becoming more aware and supportive of different learning styles. The earlier you advocate for yourself, the more supported and confident you’ll feel. Veterinary medicine needs diverse minds and perspectives, so there’s a place for you here.

Are there any memories from your time at Liverpool (people, places, moments) that still stand out to you?

There are so many memories from my time at Liverpool. Freshers’ Week was a big highlight—meeting so many new people and getting to explore a completely new city. Liverpool has such a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere, and it quickly started to feel like home.

One standout moment was the ‘Vet School Halfway Weekender’—it was a real milestone. It gave us the chance to pause, look back at everything we’d achieved, and celebrate how far we’d come. The veterinary course really is a marathon, not a sprint, so moments like that helped remind us of our progress and gave us a boost to keep going.

Graduation, of course, is always bittersweet! It was amazing to celebrate all the hard work with friends and family, but there was also the feeling of saying goodbye to such a formative chapter in our lives. The memories from Liverpool will always stay with me.

Thank you, Reanne, for helping us celebrate National Inclusion Week. What are your experiences of inclusion in the veterinary profession? Is this something you champion through your work or voluntary service? We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch with Communications Officer Christina Ratcliffe.