Change is good

ACE STUDENT Lori Klausner became a winner at poker.

Lori Klausner, 31
Upper East Side
The Class PokerPrimaDivas
92nd Street Y

Poker is so popular nowadays, and I wanted to learn how to play so I could be part of it. What appealed to me most was the competitive aspect of the game. I’m someone who loves to win. The class was amazing. I looked forward to going every Monday night after work (I’m a pharmaceutical sales representative). You really had to use your brain and pay attention. After the class I felt confident that I knew what I was doing. In February 2008, I enrolled to play in a charity poker tournament at Cipriani’s. I had no expectations except to have fun. The next thing I knew, a group of about 40 people turned into the final ten—and there I was at the table with a crowd of people watching me. It was surreal. Then I was in the final three—me and two young guys—and one guy got eliminated and then I won! The prize was a voucher for two round-trip airline tickets. It was an incredible night. Afterwards, I thought, If I put my mind to it, I can do anything.
1395 Lexington Ave (212-415-5500, 92y.org)