Meet the Vet Tech Scholarship Recipients Defying the Odds

Youth who grow up in foster care face staggering challenges. Only 50% graduate from high school, and just 3–4% complete a college degree. Without access to higher education, many struggle to find stable jobs, pay rent, or avoid homelessness.

That’s why Foster Love, in partnership with Charles River Laboratories, created the American Industries Vet Tech Scholarship—a life-changing opportunity for youth in foster care to pursue careers in animal care and veterinary medicine. Last year’s Vet Tech Scholarship recipients are not only breaking the cycle of poverty but rewriting what’s possible.

Together, our programs have produced incredible results:

• 90% graduation rate
• 3.35 average graduating GPA
• 40% of scholars pursue post-baccalaureate degrees
• 38% go on to doctorate programs

READ MORE: Sponsor a Student: Foster Love Scholarships for Former Foster Youth

Meet last year’s inspiring Vet Tech Scholarship recipients whose love for animals fuels their journey to success.

Ariel, Mississippi

Mississippi State University | Animal & Dairy Sciences, Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Growing up in Mississippi, she started volunteering at her local SPCA in high school, where she developed a deep connection with the animals she cared for. As a senior in high school, she began volunteering in her local community SPCA. She recounts seeing a dog in the kennel for the first time: “[The dog was] running circles around the kennels with nothing but fear and confusion in its eyes, my heart ached for it because I knew exactly how he was feeling”.

Despite significant childhood hardship, Ariel graduated from community college with honors and transferred to Mississippi State University. As a junior, Ariel is focused on building relationships with people in her field, and in her free time, she enjoys playing co-ed softball. She’s also preparing to study abroad in Peru to further her veterinary studies.

Madison, Texas

Texas Tech University | Animal Science
Madison’s journey into foster care began when her grandmother took her in at age five. Throughout her youth, Madison’s love for animals blossomed through her involvement with Future Farmers of America (FFA). 

As a freshman at Texas Tech University, Madison is excited to join a sorority and recently started an internship that has provided her with hands-on experience and a sense of physical accomplishment. These new activities help her stay balanced and focused while she works toward her degree in animal science.

Alexandra, New Hampshire

Penn Foster | Veterinary Technology
After signing herself out of foster care at 18, Alexandra found comfort and connection through animals. Her love for animals led her to start pet sitting, and eventually, she discovered her calling in emergency veterinary care. 

Now, Alexandra is pursuing a degree in veterinary technology. She is deeply committed to giving back to the creatures who gave her hope when she needed it most, and her journey is a testament to resilience and determination.

Sollie, California

Penn Foster | Veterinary Technology
Sollie’s journey into the world of animal care began with a strong desire to help animals. She remembers playing with her friend’s Barbie Pet Rescue game and knew that “protecting and healing animals was my ultimate calling.” After being taken in by her grandparents, Sollie found safety and support, enabling her to dream big. 

She graduated with a bachelor’s degree from UCLA and is now pursuing her certification in Veterinary Technology at Penn Foster. Sollie, who grew up dancing, still enjoys living near the beach, and she works at an exotic animal hospital, gaining valuable experience that fuels her passion for animal care.

Brianna, New York

CUNY John Jay College | Pre-Veterinary Medicine
Brianna’s love for animals has been a guiding force throughout her life. The bond with her dog Shadow helped her through tough times, and it inspired her to pursue a career in veterinary care. She is currently attending John Jay University while also taking courses at Penn Foster. 

Brianna is passionate about gaining volunteering experience, and she plans to join more clubs on campus to expand her knowledge and make a positive impact on the lives of animals. Her ultimate goal is to attend veterinary school at the University of Pennsylvania.

The Power of Support

These  Vet Tech Scholarship recipients represent what’s possible when foster youth are given the tools and support to succeed. They’re not just working toward careers—they’re building lives full of purpose, impact, and hope.

Thanks to your support, Foster Love is helping them—and so many others—step confidently into their futures.