A veterinary degree from Cornell University may feel financially out of reach for many students; however, the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is more affordable than most people think. With over four million dollars in scholarships awarded annually and 65-70% of students receiving scholarship aid, the dream of a Cornell veterinary degree can be an achievable reality. This is true for CVM’s newest cohort of RED (Reducing Educational Debt) scholars.

These rising third-year veterinary students will receive tuition-free third- and fourth-years of their D.V.M. education — lightening their financial burdens and allowing these aspiring animal doctors to focus on what really matters — improving the health and wellbeing of species of all kinds. 

Alycia Basquiat: Advocate for accessible and community-centered veterinary care

Alycia says: “It is an honor to be a recipient of the RED Scholarship, and I am immensely grateful to the donors whose support is helping me bring my goals to life. While I knew from an early age that I wanted to work with animals, the path to becoming a veterinarian was unclear due to a lack of representation and mentorship. Navigating my own path has strengthened my commitment to increasing accessibility within the profession and supporting others through mentorship. I plan to pursue a career in low-cost veterinary medicine and high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN), with the goal of improving access to care and advancing One Health education in under-resourced communities, including my family’s home countries in the Caribbean. I hope to be a voice for communities that are too often overlooked. The RED Scholarship provides the support and momentum to continue this work, and I look forward to paying it forward.”  

Alexandria Henderson: Champion for rural veterinary care

Alexandria says: “I am incredibly honored to be a recipient of the RED Scholarship; words cannot fully express my gratitude. As a non-traditional, first-generation veterinary student, this award significantly reduces the financial burden of my education and allows me to focus on my goal of serving one of the most underserved areas of our profession: rural, large-animal veterinary medicine. I aspire to support farmers and strengthen the fabric of the community that raised me by promoting sustainable food production and providing compassionate, herd-level care. This scholarship brings me one step closer to serving rural communities and making a meaningful impact in an industry that I hold close to my heart.”

Rose Molina-Gonzalez: Advocate for equitable veterinary access

Rose says: “Receiving the RED Scholarship is a tremendous honor, and I am deeply grateful, especially as a first-generation Afro-Latinx student navigating veterinary medicine. Growing up in a large urban environment and collaborating with diverse patient populations broadened my understanding of the field, particularly the disparities in animal health literacy and access to care among marginalized communities. These experiences continue to fuel my commitment to serving underserved populations. This scholarship not only provides meaningful financial relief but also strengthens my ability to pursue a career in mixed-animal practice grounded in compassionate, equitable care. I also hope to explore opportunities in public health and policy to address systemic barriers that limit access to veterinary services. Above all, I strive to honor this support by becoming an advocate who transforms personal and community challenges into purpose-driven service for those who remind me of my own journey.”