Dr. Carissimo grew up in Central New York with two younger sisters and a home full of pets, which sparked a lifelong love for animals. Growing up, she did ballet, modern, jazz, and played lacrosse. She studied Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo before earning her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University in 2025. While in veterinary school, she continued to pursue her passion for dance and was the President of Cornell’s Dance Collective. She also traveled to Guatemala to perform spays, neuters, and vaccinations for street and owned dogs and cats. She worked in Cornell’s Emergency room during veterinary school, where she discovered her love for emergency medicine. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her fiancé and their 6-year-old Australian Shepherd mix. She also loves caring for houseplants, growing flowers, boating, reading, skiing, hiking, and spending time with her family.
