I’m a first-year midwifery student at the University of Galway and I’m also a mature student originally from Spain. My journey to studying midwifery has been far from traditional, but every step has led me to where I’m meant to be. 

Midwifery first came into my mind years ago when I was still living in Spain. I was always drawn to healthcare and helping people, and midwifery seemed like such a meaningful and rewarding career. But in Spain the path is a bit longer, you have to qualify as a nurse first and then study for two additional years to specialise in midwifery. That system made it feel like more of a distant dream. I also considered becoming a paramedic or even a police officer. I’ve always known that I thrive under pressure, I can think and act fast, and I find real purpose in supporting others during critical moments. 

Andrea Vazquez Domenech receiving her Midwifery Student Ambassador certificate with NMBI Vice President, Áine Lynch (left) and Carolyn Donohoe, Interim Chief Executive (right)

Then, life took me in a completely new direction. I moved to Ireland five years ago. I initially came for a change and a fresh start, and I quickly grew to love the people, and the pace. A couple of years ago, I learned something that truly changed everything: in Ireland, you can apply to study midwifery directly. It felt like a door that had always been closed suddenly opened. 

From that moment, I was determined to try. I applied for a foundation course at the University of Galway to give myself a pathway into higher education and I also sat the aptitude test for mature students. It was nerve-wracking and I was nervous as a mature student starting over. But I knew this was my second chance to follow something I had wanted. 

Getting a place in the midwifery course felt like such a personal victory. Now that I’ve finished my first year, I can honestly say it has been everything I hoped for—and more. Being part of such an intimate and life-changing journey with women and families is something I find incredibly special. Every day on placement I see how much trust is placed in midwives and how powerful it is to be there to offer reassurance, clinical care, and calmness during moments of joy, vulnerability, and transformation. 

One of the most meaningful parts of this first year has been meeting the amazing midwives and preceptors who guide us during placements. Their knowledge, empathy and professionalism are inspiring. I look at them and think, ‘that’s the kind of midwife I want to become’. They remind me that midwifery is not just about medical care, it’s about presence, compassion and connection. 

There have been challenges, of course. As a mature student there have been moments of self-doubt and pressure. Balancing study with full time employment and of course daily life can be tough, but every time I support someone through a meaningful moment, I feel grounded again in why I chose this path. 

I feel so lucky to have found this opportunity in Ireland. I’m grateful to the University of Galway for offering accessible routes for people like me and for supporting us through such a life-shaping journey. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and excited for the midwife I am becoming. 

To anyone reading this who is wondering if it’s too late, or if you’re too different, or if the path seems too hard; please know that it’s not. Your story matters and it’s never too late to start a new chapter. If I can do it, so can you.