What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
When I was a kid, I wanted to be one of three things: a doctor, the president, or an astronaut. As I grew up, my dreams “came back down to earth”– I could not see myself as being able to handle any of those careers. After all, I was just one kid from East Texas that couldn’t possibly compete with everyone from Dallas and Houston.
Once I graduated college, I got the opportunity to work alongside a physician in a psychiatric hospital and see what being a doctor was all about. I watched a professional utilize their wide knowledge base to solve problems, work with others, and change lives. It was everything I wanted out of a career. At that point, I set my own reservations and nerves aside. This was something I NEEDED to do. Anything else would have left me with a lifelong question of “what if?”
Why did you choose McGovern Medical School?
It is no secret that Texas is spoiled when it comes to medical education. During the application process, I was torn when it came to deciding where to attend, but McGovern’s interview day stood out. It was authentic and focused on things that mattered to me: a strong collaborative culture, a wide variety of avenues in which to take my education, and a small city of staff and faculty to have my back as I begin my journey into medicine. Every time I asked about this school during the application cycle, I only heard great things — both students and physicians could not recommend McGovern enough!
What motivates you?
The support from my family keeps me motivated as I walk this road that is difficult yet rewarding. My whole life, my loved ones have supported my educational endeavors, even when it meant that I had to miss big events or holidays to keep up with my own obligations.
Through some of my darkest hours, I have always had people like my little brothers to help me keep my head up and my eye on the prize. While I will never be able to truly thank them enough for their unwavering support, I can at least take advantage of this amazing opportunity and make the most out of it.
Who is your hero?
My heroes are my parents.
My father taught me the value of hard work and showed me why it is important to have high standards for myself. He was always ready to provide for his family, even when things seemed grim. As I have gotten older I have come to better understand that in daily life, the way you carry yourself and the effort you put into your tasks has an impact on those around you. I have my dad to thank for the temperament I have in my work and for the courage to pursue this profession.
My mother is a law enforcement officer in the Tyler area. She began her career just eight years ago and desired to work the most difficult shifts possible. Currently she serves as a Major Crimes detective where, at times, she has seen the worst in others. When asked about why she keeps doing it, she says “I love people.” I strive to be just as tenacious — someone who keeps going because of their will to serve others.
What is your ultimate goal for your career in medicine?
I have always been drawn to mentoring others. In my practice, I want to serve as an educator for future medical students and continuously look for ways to improve the way we learn. The path to medical school was a difficult one that I could not have traversed without the guidance of those who did it before me, especially my mentors at UT Austin. For me, the best way to show my gratitude for their kindness is to pay it forward and nurture future generations of physicians.
I would also like to bring the expertise I acquire at McGovern and in residency to my home of East Texas, where I feel my skillset will be most needed. The physician shortage is felt most in the rural areas of Texas, and I want to do my part in helping to address the unmet needs of the people that made me who I am today. With Tyler’s new medical center, my goal is to join in the existing efforts and make East Texas healthcare more accessible than ever.
What kind of emotions do you feel as you’re beginning medical school?
At the start of summer, I felt a bit apprehensive. I was moving away from family into a new city that is bigger than anywhere else I have lived. Naturally, I felt a bit out of my element, but after I moved in, met my roommates, and got more exposure to the Houston area, those feelings have subsided and been replaced with wondrous excitement. Excitement for the great people I am about to work with for the next four years, for the tremendous privilege and opportunity I have been afforded, and for what the future holds!
What are you looking forward to most about medical school?
I am looking forward to getting to know all of my classmates. Given McGovern’s reputation for a great culture, I have no doubt that they have carefully selected a group of people that will help me achieve my goals and hopefully become lifelong friends.
If you had to pick a medical specialty right now, what would it be and why?
Right now, I would pick general surgery. When I shadowed a surgeon, I instantly loved being in the OR and the dynamic between the physicians, surgical techs, nurses, and everyone else involved. While it appears to have its share of good and bad days, I currently think that this field would be the most fulfilling!
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