What inspired you to want to pursue a career in medicine?
My parents suffered from various chronic health conditions that unfortunately led to both of them dying at relatively young ages while I was an undergraduate student. Because of their health issues, I was exposed to the field of medicine starting as a child, spectating during hospital and doctor visits. Throughout these experiences I developed a strong appreciation and admiration for the field of medicine and all that the healthcare professionals do for their patients and caregivers.
Specifically, when I was 9 years old my dad was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and was almost to the point of needing a heart transplant. The team of physicians that treated him at this time took a holistic approach and kept the family, including myself, informed and comforted throughout every step. The simple act of being kind and always taking the time to talk to me while they were saving my dad’s life, even though I was just a kid, truly inspired me to want to be just like them when I grew up.
Why did you choose McGovern Medical School?
When I was scoping out medical schools, I was looking for an institution that emphasized the importance of research, demonstrated a supportive environment amongst students/administration, and possessed a well-rounded curriculum with the resources necessary for success. Additionally, prior to medical school, I completed a PhD in neuroscience in which I studied the effects of pain and hypertension on the recovery of function after spinal cord injury, so a school with access to a trauma center was a must.
McGovern was an obvious first choice for me as it exceeded all of the things I was looking for. From interview day to present day, I have only experienced a very encouraging and welcoming environment at McGovern made possible by all the amazing faculty, staff, and students. The access to Memorial Hermann and TIRR, the busiest trauma center in the country, and a top rehabilitation hospital was a huge selling point as well.
What motivates you?
I am driven by my desire to achieve any goal I set for myself. Whether that goal is to improve the efficiency of a process/event/organization, identify an underlying mechanism through extensive research, or just learning a new topic, I will ensure whatever it is I am working on is achieved to the best of my ability.
Who is your hero?
I have always admired the work of Dr. Audrey Evans, a pediatric oncologist. After failing her first year of medical school due to a learning disability, she adjusted her learning strategies and went on to become a pioneer in her field. Her work and research reduced the mortality rate of children with neuroblastoma by 50%, earning her the name “Mother of Neuroblastoma.”
Families were traveling from all around the world to have their children treated at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where she worked, and she realized many of them had no place to stay. This led her to found the Ronald McDonald house, giving these families a free place to stay while their children receive care. As we all know the Ronald McDonald house has grown internationally with hundreds of houses around the world serving families in need. Her work is inspiring and exemplifies what it means to dedicate your life to selfless service.
What is your ultimate goal for your career in medicine?
My ultimate goal is to utilize the skills obtained throughout my graduate and medical school training to become a well-rounded physician scientist. No matter what specialty I end up in, I will strive to find novel ways to improve access to healthcare for patients living in underserved communities while also working to contribute scientific innovations that advance the field of medicine.
What kind of emotions do you feel as you’re ready to begin medical school?
I am mostly excited to embark on this new endeavor alongside the amazing people in my class. I’m a bit nervous because I know it will be arduous, but it will all be worth it. Additionally, I am thankful and appreciative to have the opportunity to obtain my medical education at an amazing school within the largest medical center in the world where there are endless opportunities to learn.
What are you looking forward to most about medical school?
I am really looking forward to getting involved within the student organizations and have a positive impact on the community as a medical student. I am especially excited to volunteer with the HOMES, Frontera de Salud, and Casa Maria clinics to provide free care to underserved populations within our community.
If you had to pick a medical specialty right now, what would it be and why?
This is a tough question, but I would choose to build upon my background in neurotrauma research to pursue a career in neurosurgery followed by a spine fellowship to best equip myself to treat those with spinal cord injuries. In doing so, I would be sure to implement the most effective techniques and therapeutic strategies to maximize long-term functional outcomes allowing for the best quality of life for each of my patients. However, I must say I am keeping my options open to all specialties right now.
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