Leader in the Making

Growing up in Pasadena, second-year veterinary student Kendrick Salgado Flores became fascinated with animals thanks to his father—a house painter—who would sometimes accept exotic animals such as birds or fish in lieu of payment. 

“Early on, I understood the responsibility of caring for animals,” said Salgado Flores. “I learned to appreciate their unique features and needs.”

This early interest guided his path toward veterinary medicine. At 24, frustrated with his job at a local swap meet, Salgado Flores began a veterinary assistant program in Fontana, CA. Six months later, the school went bankrupt. Although brief, he considers the experience a turning point that helped him clarify his goals.

I learned about small animal emergency medicine and animal reproduction and quickly fell in love with it because it is so hands-on.”

 

While still working at the swap meet, Salgado Flores enrolled in community college. A fortuitously placed flyer encouraged him to set his sights on UC Davis, where he was accepted through the Transfer Admission Guarantee program. He chose to major in Animal Science with an emphasis on captive and companion animals.

As he prepared to graduate with his bachelor’s degree in 2022, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his veterinary school plans. Salgado Flores sees the gap year as another blessing in disguise. It allowed him to spend time at home with his newborn son and witness milestones he might otherwise have missed. During that period, he worked full-time at several Banfield Pet Hospitals, which led to opportunities at Insight Veterinary Wellness Center and Kokopelli Veterinary Center.

“Those experiences helped me understand what the job really entails,” he reflected. “I learned about small animal emergency medicine and animal reproduction and quickly fell in love with it because it is so hands-on.”

Working in the field also deepened his understanding of the client’s perspective. Salgado Flores is passionate about building trust with pet owners, whether he’s explaining a surgical procedure or helping families navigate care options when finances are limited.

The journey has not always been easy. He credits supportive mentors for their encouragement and deeply appreciates his wife’s hard work and sacrifice to help him pursue his dreams.

“I’m in my early 30’s, so I’m coming at this differently than some of my classmates,” he said. “My priorities are clear. As a dad, I wake up every day knowing my purpose.”

Now thriving in veterinary school as a member of the Class of 2028, Salgado Flores is an active participant in student organizations such as the Latin Veterinary Medical Association, which allows him to stay connected and represent his community.

As a School Ambassador, he proudly inspires the next generation. Recently, Salgado Flores organized a “Veterinary Academy for Junior Explorers” at his son’s school. The event welcomed children ages 5 to 12, and introduced them to veterinary medicine through fun, hands-on activities. 

“The sooner you start planting the seeds, the better,” he says. “As a first-generation student, I feel it is my duty to share my experiences.”

Outside of school, Salgado Flores prioritizes family time. He recently took up fishing, an activity he enjoys sharing with his son, Noah, who is now five years old. On weekends, he and his wife, Lydia, like to visit their favorite Korean barbecue restaurant. He also spends time with the family dog, a Maltipoo named Charlie.

Ultimately, Salgado Flores wants to pursue a career in small animal emergency medicine. He hopes to open his own clinic in Southern California, closer to extended family. Although the path ahead may include unexpected detours, experience has taught him that those moments often bring opportunities. 

“I think things can change for the better if you stay focused, keep your priorities straight, and remain true to yourself and your goals.”