First Generation Low Income Veterinary Student Association

Our Mission

The First Generation, Low Income Veterinary Student Association is dedicated to empowering veterinary students navigating unique challenges by cultivating an inclusive community that fosters academic excellence, leadership, and professional growth. Through mentorship, advocacy, and resource access, we strive to dismantle barriers and provide members with the tools, connections, and support needed to succeed in veterinary medicine. By championing equity, financial literacy, and collaboration, FiGLI advances systemic change to create a more diverse and just veterinary profession where all students can thrive and lead.

What is FiGLI VSA?

FiGLI VSAis the first veterinary student organization of its kind dedicated to increasing representation, opportunity, and belonging for students from first generation and/or low income backgrounds in veterinary medicine.

Who can join?

All veterinary students at Cornell University! Our events are targeted towards students that are low-income and/or first-generation college students, but they will benefit all students! Learning about and being empathetic of different people's financial situations is essential to practicing exceptional veterinary medicine along the spectrum of care. We welcome everyone!

What does FiGLI VSA do?

FiGLI hosts a variety of programs throughout the year:

  • Financial and career development workshops.
  • Monthly speaker series featuring veterinarians from first generation, low income, and other non-traditional backgrounds.
  • Networking opportunities.
  • Community-building events.
  • Free professional headshot sessions
  • Annual Scrub Drive

What does FiGLI VSA plan to do?

We are a pretty new club (founded in 2025!), so we have so many ideas and plans for the future. Some of our ideas are:

  • Development of an Access Fund specific for veterinary students at Cornell
  • Hosting Spectrum of Care Workshops
  • Development of a centralized Resource Hub connecting students with financial, housing, food, academic, wellness, and other services.