Lorena Moreno, U'19

Why did you choose to attend the University of Saint Mary, and what made it stand out from other colleges you considered?

When deciding on what college to attend, I did not know where to begin. I never really thought that I would even attend college as a student-athlete. When coaches from different colleges began to contact me, my high school coaches were there to pave the way for me in what I wanted in a school along with their running program. I clearly remember the moment when Coach B and Coach Cecilia made time out of their day to come and watch me run at a track meet. They saw the potential in me even though I felt that I did not do my best in my race. Them believing in me was something I truly appreciated, even still to this day. Upon visiting the University of Saint Mary, the cross country and track & field program was still starting out, but the ambition that I saw in Coach B for his student-athletes and the program’s future was evident. The passion to grow the running program at USM was something that I knew I wanted to be a part of.

 What have you been up to since graduating from Saint Mary?

Since graduating from Saint Mary, I have moved to multiple states. From Kansas to Colorado, to Alabama and then back to Colorado. Sometimes I look back and think of myself as a little nomad. Throughout the years I gained much experience within the veterinary field which has truly been a blessing. I took multiple job opportunities within the animal world and even at a physical therapy clinic for sports medicine. The experience that I gained throughout the years has only molded me into a well-rounded individual.

What is your current job or role, and what do you enjoy most about it?

I am proud to say that I am an ER Veterinary Nurse for VEG ER for Pets here in Dallas, Texas. What I enjoy most about this role is being there for pets and their owners in whatever emergency case that may be. I admire the passion and drive that my work team and I have and how we carry ourselves to high standards in order to provide good medicine for our sickly animal companions.

 How did your time at Saint Mary prepare you for your career?

My role has definitely been an on-the-job learning experience. I was blessed to find many veterinarians and other veterinary technicians who have taught me the knowledge I know and use today within the veterinary field. Saint Mary gave me the opportunity to be with a team where my confidence grew. My teammates were there not only on the track but on a personal level, too. When you spend so much time and dedicate yourself with others that love a sport, they truly become a part of your family.

 What is a memorable experience you had during your time at Saint Mary?

One of the most memorable experiences for me during my time will be how our running program grew within the years that I attended USM. Getting the chance to see how the hard work and dedication that my coaches and teammates gave throughout the years is something that will always be cherished. Seeing how successful the USM Cross Country and Track team continues to develop is truly a dream into reality.

Have you stayed in touch with any of your professors or classmates?

There are many teammates who I have kept in contact with. At times I would give a call to some and we would catch up in life and just see how things are going for one another. It’s not all the time, but when we do, it feels like not much time has gone by.

What advice would you give to current students or recent graduates?

Be yourself, regardless of what others might say. Stay true to who you are as a person. As cliche as it might sound, there might be a prolonged period of uncertainty and hardship but there will come a time where you will achieve leaps of success in multiple areas of your life. The only requirement is that you do not give up on yourself.

What hobbies or interests are you currently pursuing?

After graduating USM, it was a little challenging to balance work, life and running. Since moving back to Dallas, I have been able to find my love for running again. I’ve also been thankful to find my passion for the things I had always enjoyed which include painting and reading and being able to take myself out and explore my city. Pouring good energy into myself is becoming a goal of mine and I have been continuing to do just that.

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