Tristen Ventura: A Spotlight on the Dean's Leaders Program

Originally conceived by Lorin D. Warnick, D.V.M., Ph.D.’94, the DLP seeks to prepare and support students from diverse backgrounds in their veterinary education. Tristen Ventura, D.V.M. '30, hails from Lynbrook, New York.

In discussing her reasons for joining the DLP, Ventura noted, "As a first-generation student, DLP felt like a safe place to bridge my current lived experiences with fellow classmates and faculty to begin to find my place in the college." Ventura found the program beneficial in alleviating her concerns about entering veterinary school and fostering connections.

Regarding her motivation to pursue a D.V.M. degree, Ventura expressed her desire to advocate for the human-animal bond. She stated, "Being a veterinarian means not only caring for animals but also helping people understand and appreciate them." As the first in her family to pursue a doctorate, she takes pride in representing her family in this new educational realm.

Ventura's veterinary career aspirations include a focus on aquatic medicine and the possibility of specialization. Having engaged in aquarium work and rehabilitation for aquatic animals, she aims to expand her expertise into areas like marine mammal care and contribute to underexplored fields such as marine invertebrate medicine. Her ultimate goal involves pursuing a specialty like ophthalmology and applying her skills across aquariums and rehabilitation facilities nationwide.

Reflecting on her DLP experience, Ventura identified her favorite sessions: personal finance and the career development workshop. She appreciated the opportunity to shadow clinicians and researchers at Cornell's veterinary hospital, which helped spark her interest in ophthalmology. Activities like coffee chats with the new dean and dinners with upperclassmen enriched her experience. Most importantly, she valued the connections she formed with fellow participants, creating a supportive network early in her academic journey.

Ventura learned the importance of seeking help when faced with challenges, whether understanding classroom terminology or tailoring her resume for job applications. She appreciated how the DLP empowered her with the tools to ask for assistance.

She was pleasantly surprised by the eagerness of faculty, alumni, and clinicians to engage with students, often dedicating extra time to address questions and enhance presentations. Ventura felt welcomed and encouraged, realizing her aspirations, including working with manatees, were within reach.

As she begins her first year in veterinary medicine, Ventura hopes to maintain her enthusiasm from the DLP. While nervous about starting classes, she looks forward to connecting with aquatic faculty and peers who share similar interests. She is excited about future opportunities at Cornell, such as Aquavet or Expanding Horizons, and remains open to new experiences that lie ahead.