What inspired you to want to pursue a career in medicine?
The desire to help was there from a young age. When my grandmother was sick, I always wanted to help her. After graduating high school, I realized I wasn’t mature enough academically, professionally, or personally to become a physician. So, I reassessed my trajectory, joined the Houston Fire Department, and also became a registered nurse. These experiences allowed me to grow as an individual, ultimately reigniting my desire to help others as a physician.
Why did you choose McGovern Medical School?
Houston is where I was raised and where I serve the citizens as a registered nurse and Houston firefighter. Staying in Houston was a priority for me, as well as choosing a school that aligned with my goals. With the ultimate goal of becoming a trauma surgeon, McGovern was the perfect choice because it is attached to Memorial Hermann-TMC, which has the busiest trauma center in the nation. Choosing McGovern allows me access to resources, individuals, and experiences that will undoubtedly aid me in my pursuit of becoming a trauma surgeon.
What motivates you?
Serving others to the best of my ability motivates me, whether as a fireman, nurse, or everyday person. I believe we, as humans, have obligations to one another and owe it to each other to serve to the best of our abilities. This sense of duty is what drives me.
Who is your hero?
My grandmother, Lucia, immigrated to the United States a long time ago in pursuit of a better life. She endured hardships, raised three children, and worked three jobs. Because of her tenacity, fortitude, and determination, I was given the opportunity to succeed. I won’t take that for granted. She is my hero, and I do this for her.
What is your ultimate goal for your career in medicine?
I want to be a trauma surgeon. Additionally, I want to use my experiences from firefighting and nursing to develop highly functioning teams that contribute to positive patient outcomes. There is a lot to be learned by looking outward and integrating those experiences and skillsets. I believe my non-traditional trajectory gives me this opportunity.
What kind of emotions do you feel as you’re beginning medical school?
I’m excited to say that I am at a point in my life where I am ready to begin medical school. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing about how I got here. Thirteen years in the Houston Fire Department and seven years as an emergency room registered nurse have brought me to the perfect point in my life to say I am ready for the rigors of formal medical education and training. I love to learn, and I am truly honored by this opportunity. I’m ready to get started.
What are you looking forward to most about medical school?
I love learning and am looking forward to this privileged opportunity to take all of my life experiences and begin becoming the best physician I can be. Serving others in that role is something I eagerly await. Additionally, I want to use my skills and experiences to help my fellow classmates become the best physicians they can be.
If you had to pick a medical specialty right now, what would it be and why?
Surgery appeals to me, partly because of my experience as a fireman with one of the busiest fire departments in the nation. When I respond to a house fire, I know we will work tirelessly until the fire is out. I enjoy having a definitive outcome in which I have a direct impact. I believe surgery parallels this experience. Additionally, I thrive in highly dynamic and fast-paced environments, and I believe a surgical specialty allows me to operate in such arenas.
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