Thoroughbred Charities of America 2025 Grantees

Thanks to generous support from Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA), several University of Louisville students are gaining hands-on clinical experience, mentorship, and the opportunity to serve the hardworking backside workers of the horse racing industry at the Kentucky Racing Health Services Center.

These TCA-funded internships are helping students:

• Develop clinical and patient-care skills
• Gain real-world experience with patients
• Strengthen bilingual communication
• Explore and confirm their healthcare career goals
• Build confidence, communication skills, and professional clarity

We are proud to spotlight Stephanie Richards, Enrique Calderon, and Jimena Armenteros—each of whom shared how this internship is shaping their journey toward becoming compassionate, skilled healthcare professionals.

Stephanie Richards

Major: Neuroscience & Psychology
Year: Junior
Career Goal: Anesthesiologist

“The TCA-funded internship was critical for my professional and educational development… it confirmed my career path and strengthened my English and Spanish, skills essential for my future in healthcare.”

Richards’s work includes patient intake, vital signs, rapid diagnostic testing, and translation support for both physical and mental health services. Her experience has deepened her understanding of the cultural and linguistic barriers patients face and strengthened her commitment to empathetic, safe, and patient-centered care.

Enrique Calderon

Major: Computer Science, Biology Minor
Career Goal: Physician

“This internship has helped me tremendously… I’ve learned several clinical skills and gained valuable experience working with the patients at the backside.”

TCA’s funding gave Calderon the opportunity to grow clinically, receive mentorship, and build confidence working with diverse patient populations. His time at KRHSC has prepared him to provide quality, culturally informed care to many as he moves toward medical school.

Jimena Armenteros

Major: Neuroscience (Pre-Med Track)
Year: Second-Year Undergraduate
Career Goal: Physician

“This experience has connected me with underserved and immigrant populations, helping me understand their needs and how to make them feel heard, understood, and safe.”

Armenteros credits the internship with giving her the hands-on clinical exposure, professional mentorship, and patient interaction skills that reinforce her passion for medicine.