The dream that drives Rose Molina-Gonzalez, D.V.M. class of 2028
Rose Molina-Gonzalez. Photo: Provided
Initially, Rose Molina-Gonzalez wanted to be an M.D. for humans. Soon, she will become a veterinarian, a career she chose to change people’s lives.
Three internships in particular made Molina-Gonzalez, D.V.M. class of 2028, realize how much human and animal well-being are connected.
The first one was with PAWS NY, an organization that helps New York City residents who are at-risk of losing their pets due to physical and financial obstacles.
“I'm fairly shy, but I bonded with the people over the animals. I was amazed at the social circles I was creating,” said Molina-Gonzalez.
The second was with Gallop NYC, an organization with the vision of a New York City where everyone — regardless of ability — can grow, thrive, and connect through the healing power of horses. “This made me realize how valuable animals are for humans,” she said.
Molina-Gonzalez’s third internship was with VEG ER for Pets in the Upper East Side, where she offered comfort to pet parents in distress. In the ER, a little human warmth goes a long way.
Drawing from these experiences and her own childhood memories — like when her family struggled to afford insulin for her pet — Molina-Gonzalez joined the Cornell D.V.M. program in 2024 with a clear goal in mind: to make veterinary care more accessible to people.
Each year, the D.V.M. program at Cornell supports three exceptional students through the RED (Reducing Educational Debt) program. RED scholars, like Molina-Gonzalez, receive two years tuition-free.
“Cornell really cares about each person as an individual and they are really accommodating, especially through their generous financial aid,” she said.
With $4M in scholarships awarded annually, and 65 to 70 percent of students receiving scholarship aid, the true cost of a veterinary degree from Cornell is more affordable than many expect.
