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Hometown: LaFeria, TX (raised), now living in Edinburg.
Tell us about your journey into medicine or science and what inspired you to pursue your career.
I knew I wanted to be a pediatrician as a freshman in high school. As a naturally social person, I have always valued the relationships and meaningful interactions that come with caring for patients and their families.
During medical school, I explored several specialties in depth, but I ultimately returned to Pediatrics. I am passionate about advocating for children, who often cannot advocate for themselves, and I remain inspired by the remarkable resilience, strength, and optimism children demonstrate even in the face of significant illness.
What do you enjoy most about your work at UTRGV School of Medicine and UT Health RGV, and what keeps you inspired?
What I enjoy most about working at the UTRGV School of Medicine is the opportunity to work closely with medical students and witness their growth and development from their first year through graduation through my involvement with clinical skills, direct mentorship, and pediatric clerkship.
It is especially rewarding to mentor and support them as they pursue and ultimately match into the residency programs of their choice. I also greatly value the daily collaboration with our academic coordinators, Women's & Children's clinic personnel, and dedicated pediatric community faculty, whose commitment and teamwork are essential to providing exceptional educational experiences for our learners.
How has the landscape for women in medicine and science changed throughout your career?
The landscape for women in medicine and science has evolved significantly over my 15+ year career. Today, there is greater recognition of the importance of supporting the family unit during training, with more resources and flexibility available to help individuals balance their professional and personal responsibilities.
Additionally, qualified women are increasingly being recognized for leadership opportunities, often attaining these roles earlier in their careers than in previous generations. These changes have created a more inclusive environment that encourages the advancement and success of women in academic medicine and scientific fields.
Who has inspired you most in your career, and what is one piece of advice you would give to the next generation of women in medicine and science?
The advice I would give to the next generation of women in medicine is to thoughtfully consider the importance of work-life balance, particularly for those who hope to build a family. Recognize that there is no single path to a successful medical career.
Today, a wide variety of academic, leadership, research, and clinical opportunities can accommodate different schedules and life priorities. Women should feel empowered to pursue careers that align with their professional aspirations and personal goals, knowing they can achieve success in many ways.
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