“Travel won out,” Rachel laughs. “I packed my bags and ended up visiting 35 countries. I am so grateful that I got to explore the world and go on so many wild adventures, but I knew that my true calling was to become a nutritionist.”

From nap time to dream time

Fast forward a few years, and that feeling became impossible to ignore – especially after becoming a mum.

“When my son was one, I listened to a podcast about following your dreams at any age. I trusted my intuition,” she says.

Rachel enrolled in a Bachelor of Health Science (Clinical Nutrition) at Endeavour College, just three days before the semester started.

“It truly has been one of the best decisions I have made in my career so far.”

Juggling study, work and family life isn’t easy, but Rachel’s found her rhythm.

“I study during nap time, at night or whenever I can fit it in,” she explains. “I’ve got a four-year-old and a one-year-old, so it’s all about balance. The key to juggling everything is to try and not fall behind in the units, like watching lectures the week they’re released and starting assignments and exam preparation well in advance.”

Building her brand

Rachel’s not just studying and being a mum; she’s also launched her own business, rachelhorn.com.au. It focuses on what matters most to her: creating easy and healthy recipes that parents can use in their busy lives.

“I am so excited to be able to help parents create nutritious and yummy food for their little ones. Starting my website and Instagram page has been a real highlight,” she notes.

She says the first step was figuring out who her target audience was.

“From there you can see what support they need, and how you can help them.”

For Rachel, trusting herself in business has been the key to success – just as it has been in life.

“You just start creating and be yourself. The sooner you share your work, the sooner your community will find you.”

This is just the beginning for Rachel. She’s set her sights on working in private practice, specialising in paediatrics and women’s health.

Want to become a nutritionist too? Here’s Rachel’s study advice:

1. Get organised early: “I always review the first week’s content before the semester starts and stagger units where possible.”
2. Use breaks wisely: “I like to use half of the semester break for downtime and spend at least one day getting ahead with assignments or exam preparation.”
3. Colour-code everything: “I colour-coded my calendar to include all personal, work and study commitments. When the Endeavour calendar gets released, I block out exam periods, study breaks and assignment/quiz due dates.”
4. Be scientific: “Spend time learning how to reference. You’ll need this throughout your whole degree and beyond.”
5. Put your hand up: “Don’t be afraid to ask the lecturers lots of questions, particularly for exams and assignments.”

Rachel’s top 5 wellness tips for a balanced life:

1. Move daily: “Even if it’s just a stretch or a quick walk outside, moving your body does wonders.”
2. Meal prep: “It saves time and sanity. I cook once and eat twice, dedicating a day each week to prepare meals like veggie bread, overnight oats, muesli bars, soups and dinner options.”
3. Set boundaries: “Learning to say no has been a game-changer, especially around exam time.”
4. Plan breaks: “Holidays during semester breaks keep me motivated. It’s essential to have something to look forward to.”
5. Get support: “If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone. A therapist can help you learn new strategies when you’re feeling overwhelmed.”

What’s next for Rachel?

Rachel’s got big plans for her future in wellness. Once she graduates, she’ll be focusing on providing tailored nutritional support to help families and their little ones flourish.

“My focus is on helping families to feel supported, providing a sustainable approach to health and providing easy and delicious recipes that the whole family can enjoy.”

Ready to start your natural health career?

Empower yourself with Endeavour. Take a look at our range of Natural Health courses and take a step towards a happier, healthier you.