Cornell Vet Student Overcomes Homelessness to Redefine Veterinary Medicine

Sydney Paris is building a more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate future for the veterinary profession.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:05pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in warm, muted tones depicting a veterinary student studying intently, surrounded by blurred medical equipment and supplies, conveying a sense of focus, determination, and the challenges faced by nontraditional students in the field.A Cornell veterinary student's journey to rewrite the rules on who belongs in the profession.Ithaca Today

Sydney Paris, a first-generation, low-income student at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, is challenging the traditional mold of a veterinary student. Despite facing homelessness and financial instability, Paris has logged over 2,000 volunteer hours and is now using her experiences to advocate for greater equity, access, and support in the veterinary field.

Why it matters

Paris's story highlights the barriers that many talented and passionate students from nontraditional backgrounds face in accessing and succeeding in veterinary medicine. By sharing her journey, she is pushing the profession to confront systemic issues like educational debt, inequitable opportunities, and unsustainable care models that contribute to burnout.

The details

Early in her journey, Paris received advice that shifted her mindset: stop waiting for permission to take up space. This empowered her to pursue advocacy work, seek out mentorship opportunities, and become a leader who ensures other students with nontraditional backgrounds can see themselves reflected in the profession. Paris's resilience, empathy, and determination have been key to navigating the challenges of veterinary school, including periods where survival took priority over academic success.

  • Paris began logging over 2,000 volunteer hours before starting veterinary school.
  • Paris is currently a first-year student at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

The players

Sydney Paris

A first-generation, low-income student at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine who is challenging the traditional mold of a veterinary student and advocating for greater equity and access in the profession.

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

The veterinary school where Paris is currently a student, known for its rigorous academic program and commitment to training the next generation of veterinary professionals.

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What they’re saying

“Stop waiting for permission to take up space.”

— Unspecified

“Success doesn't have a standard timeline. You're not behind, you're building something different.”

— Sydney Paris, Veterinary Student

What’s next

Paris plans to continue her advocacy work, mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds, and expanding programs for first-generation and low-income veterinary students. She envisions herself practicing access-to-care and community-based veterinary medicine in the future.

The takeaway

Sydney Paris's story is a powerful reminder that the veterinary profession must confront its systemic barriers and inequities to truly serve both animals and the diverse communities that love them. By amplifying voices like hers, the field can build a more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate future.