VetCat Graduation Stories: Lauren Padilla
Celebrating our VetCat Journeys: Where They Are Going
As graduation nears, the anticipation of beginning a professional journey is palpable. This moment carries even greater significance for Lauren Padilla, a first-generation college graduate. With a clear vision for the future, Lauren is ready to embrace the challenges of emergency medicine, bringing a deep sense of purpose and knowledge gained from years of dedication.
A New Chapter for a First-Generation Veterinarian
After the demands of veterinary school, Lauren accepted a position at an urgent care clinic in Mesa, AZ, and is ready to work with small animals in a fast-paced environment. "I’ve accepted a job at an urgent care center in Mesa, AZ, where I’ll be working with small animals," she reveals. The role aligns perfectly with her passion for emergency medicine, a field she has long aspired to enter. With a position secured, Lauren plans to take a moment to recharge before starting her professional career. "I plan to take some time off to recharge and begin work in late September," she shared. This well-deserved break will offer a necessary transition from the intensity of academic life to the responsibilities of a practicing veterinarian.
Pursuing Her Passion
Lauren's journey into veterinary medicine has been shaped by a long-standing interest in emergency care. "I’ve always wanted to practice emergency medicine; it’s one of the types of medicine I enjoyed most as a technician. I think my education reminded me of the importance of life outside of work, in which prioritizing self-care results in a higher level of patient care. Working at an urgent care, I get the best of both worlds!" she explains. This balance between professional passion and personal well-being will be central to her approach as a veterinarian.
One of the most thrilling aspects of her new role is the opportunity to practice medicine and perform surgeries. "I’m most excited to practice medicine and perform surgeries. These are two things I’ve always dreamed of doing, and I’m anxious to get started caring for my patients!" Lauren expresses. The chance to directly impact the health and well-being of animals is a lifelong dream that is finally within reach.
First-Generation Graduate: A Family’s Dream Realized
Graduating as the first in her family to attend college and becoming a doctor is a milestone that words can hardly capture. "Graduating at such a high level and being not only the first in my family to attend college but the first in my greater family to become a doctor is a feeling words can’t begin to describe. This dream has required perseverance and dedication, and it would not have been possible without the support and love of my family," Lauren reflects. This accomplishment is not just her own; it is a testament to previous generations' sacrifices and hard work. "My grandparents came to the U.S. from Mexico to give their children a better life, and their kids worked hard to give us a better life. I feel that my accomplishments reflect that their hard work and sacrifice were not in vain, and I feel that my dreams are their dreams."
For those who follow in her footsteps, Lauren offers sage advice: "My advice, don’t ever give up. If you want something bad enough, keep trying until you get it, no matter the obstacles. Like my mom always said, ‘You can achieve anything you set your mind to.’" This mindset of perseverance and determination has been the cornerstone of her success. To those just beginning their journey in veterinary school, Lauren emphasizes the shift in mindset that comes with advanced study: "At this point in your career, the learning is no longer for the grades. Your learning is to care for your patients. This advice is not meant to place added pressure; it is meant to reframe your mindset as you go through school.
Looking Ahead
As Lauren prepares to step into her new role in Mesa, AZ, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of her family, a deep passion for veterinary medicine, and the determination to make a difference. Her journey is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and self-care in achieving one’s dreams.