Senior Rachel Fancher is steering herself just where she’d choose!
By Megan Z. Shearin | March 22, 2010
Senior Rachel Fancher from Baltimore, Md., didn’t grow up with animals.
At the age of 14, she finally got to bring home a set of cats – but sadly had to give her furry friends away.
“Both my parents are severely allergic to animals,” said Fancher. “My dad thought that if we got the animals at a young age, he would acclimate… but that didn’t exactly work.”
Fancher, a Batten Scholar who is double majoring in biology and chemistry, leaves Virginia Wesleyan College in May to attend The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Her career goal is to own a veterinary practice and conduct orthopedic surgery on animals. “My professors care a lot about me and have been active in the decisions for my future. I’ve made long lasting relations with my professors and received a great education.”
Animals of all shapes and sizes for this student who admits that she’s always had a thing for big cats.
“Lions, and tigers, and panthers are my favorite” she said. “I’ve wanted to be a vet since I was four years old. I’ve always felt a strong connection to animals, even at a young age.”
Despite not having animals in her home, Fancher’s love for all creatures great and small only grew over the years. When she was a high school student at the Institute of Notre Dame, Fancher started volunteering at a local veterinary clinic.
“I just wouldn’t go away,” she said, “so they made me a veterinary tech when I was 15.”
This avid basketball player who loves hiking, fishing, hunting and being outdoors, says there’s no feeling in the world that describes helping animals.
“Being able to see an animal come in to the vet clinic near death and then get better with my help is an amazing feeling,” said Fancher. That feeling continues to motivate her as she journeys from undergraduate to graduate school, though she admits to just a twinge of nervousness.Clubs/Organizations:
Beta Beta Beta Biology Honor Society
Co-founder, Gamma Sigma Epsilon Chemistry Honor Society
Science Club
Black Student Union
“I was thrilled when I received my acceptance letter last month,” said Fancher. “Veterinary school will be different, but I’m not looking to out-do anybody. I’m going to be the best I can.”