Diversity in Action

We are proud to house a stellar student body that is deeply committed to advancing equity and diversity within their careers and beyond. The following students have been recognized by state and national organizations for their excellent work

AMA Leadership Appointments

Photo collage of UTRGV Medical students

TMA Leadership Appointments

Photo collage of UTRGV medical students

Student Interest Group List

Download Student Interest Group List

2021 SGA Officers

Myung-Jin Cha: SGA President; Myungjin.Cha01@utrgv.edu

Myung-Jin Cha

Myung-Jin Cha
SGA President
Email: Myungjin.Cha01@utrgv.edu

Complete Name (First and Last):
Myung-Jin Cha (How to say my name: nmdrp.me/myungjincha)

Hometown:
Seoul, Korea

High School and Graduation Date:
Rockwall High School, May 2016

College and Graduation Date:
The University of Texas at Austin, May 2020

Undergraduate Major:
Biochemistry

Graduate School and Graduation Date:
N/A

Graduate Major:
N/A

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
I was drawn to medicine by the fact that physicians get to meet people with all kinds of stories and backgrounds. I enjoy meeting new people and expanding my horizon through such encounters, so that was my initial fascination with medicine. I also spent a lot of time in undergraduate volunteering at a weekend clinic that served those experiencing homelessness in downtown Austin. That experience really showed me how big of a role health care plays in social determinants; I found my passion in helping those who need fundamental care to get back into work, maintain housing, and establish a human connection through medicine. Patients that came back to the clinic to tell me about the good news that came with good health inspired me to continue this work.

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
UTRGV was my first interview during the application cycle. The Student Ambassadors on the school tour were definitely the biggest factor in helping me make the decision to come to UTRGV School of Medicine. They are incredibly candid and down-to-earth students who are excellent examples of how tight-knit and supportive our student body is. The great time at the interview made the decision very easy for me. The food here is also unbeatable.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
During my undergraduate education, I did research on genome engineering using CRISPR technology. I loved wet lab work but as I progressed through the first year of medical school, I found clinical research to be incredibly rewarding and applicable to what I am learning. I will be conducting Orthopedics research over my MS1 to MS2 transition summer, which I am very excited about! The research efforts at our school, spearheaded by Dr. Baker and Dr. Loy, are very robust and any student who wishes to conduct research here will be able to find many resources at hand.

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
Being an immigrant myself, I found that creating an environment that welcomes questions and dialogue for change has been vital for my acceptance in any community. Innately, it’s difficult to recognize diversity and inclusion issues unless you are experiencing them first-hand or have become aware of them through others. This is why communication is key and giving a platform for the minority students is vital in enhancing our school. As a student body leader, I will continuously strive to create a safe space where dialogue to continue evolving and improving is welcomed.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I didn’t speak any English just 7 years ago!

Alexandria Gonzalez: SGA Vice-President; Alexandria.Gonzalez02@utrgv.edu

Alexandria Gonzalez

Alexandria Gonzalez
SGA Vice-President
Email: Alexandria.Gonzalez02@utrgv.edu

Complete Name (First and Last):
Alexandria Gonzalez

Hometown:
Mission, Texas

High School and Graduation Date:
Veterans Memorial High School Class of 2014

College and Graduation Date:
The University of Texas at Austin Class of 2018

Undergraduate Major:
Human Development and Family Sciences

Graduate School and Graduation Date:
UTRGV Master of Science in Health Sciences, 2019

Graduate Major:
Healthcare Administration

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
My interest in medicine stems not merely from the sciences, but also from my interest in people. A career in medicine allows for interdisciplinary exploration, human interaction, and the chance to enact lasting positive change. My personal experiences with disease, volunteering in hospitals, serving my community, shadowing, and conducting research all pointed me toward a career in medicine, where I would be a lifelong learner and continually challenged to be the best provider I can be. I ultimately hope to practice while providing mentorship to underrepresented groups in medicine.

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
Upon interviewing at UTRGV, I knew that this school provided opportunities to get involved early on. One example is my involvement in the COVID-19 vaccination effort, which has allowed me to practice clinical skills while serving my community. I also grew up in the RGV, so being close to family is definitely a plus!

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
During my undergraduate studies at UT Austin, I conducted research on healthcare access and utilization across the lifespan which really fostered my interest in public health. While I am still passionate about public health and health disparities, my first year of medical school has also sparked an interest in a variety of subjects ranging from hematology/oncology to women’s health and wellness. I look forward to exploring my interests and am glad that UTRGV puts an emphasis on scholarly activity.

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
I have witnessed firsthand how inaccessibility and incomplete understanding can widen disparities. One of the most important aspects of diversity and inclusion is continuous learning and accountability. By listening to and learning from the experiences of our peers and incorporating feedback for progress, we can promote a welcoming learning environment. Whether through improving accessibility on campus, hosting interactive workshops, or leading by example, SGA representatives make the promotion of diversity and inclusion a priority.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I am the first person in my family to pursue a doctoral degree!

Prakhar Jain: SGA Treasurer; Prakhar.Jain@utrgv.edu

Prakhar Jain

Prakhar Jain
SGA Treasurer
Email: Prakhar.Jain@utrgv.edu

Complete Name (First and Last):
Prakhar Jain

Hometown:
McAllen, TX

High School and Graduation Date:
The Science Academy of South Texas, 2009

College and Graduation Date:
University Of Texas-Pan American, 2013

Undergraduate Major:
Psychology

Graduate School and Graduation Date:
n/a

Graduate Major:
n/a

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
I was inspired to pursue medicine by my father. I explored other careers before choosing medicine but found that nothing else felt as rewarding as witnessing my father and other doctors work in the hospital.

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
I chose the UTRGV School of Medicine because being a native of the region it is important for me to be able to represent the region in the medical profession. Earning an MD from UTRGV SOM will serve as a badge of honor that I can carry with me for the rest of my life.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I am most interested in researching hospital medicine. Topics I am interested in include: How can we make hospitals a safer place? What can we do to minimize hospital errors? What are the experiences of patients as they navigate our community hospitals? What can be done to improve on these experiences?

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
I believe I can promote diversity and inclusion amongst my student colleagues by empowering every student to follow their interests, become leaders, and expand our school's collection of student interest groups. I hope to encourage those at our school who may feel that there is no place for them in the current interest groups to start their own and become leaders.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I love to watch recipe videos on YouTube. I haven't tried making many myself yet but someday...

Harideep Yeruva: SGA Class of 2021 Co-Chair; Harideep.Yeruva@utrgv.edu

Harideep Yeruva

Harideep Yeruva
SGA Class of 2021 Co-Chair
Email: Harideep.Yeruva@utrgv.edu

Complete Name (First and Last):
Harideep Yeruva

Hometown:
Plano, TX

High School and Graduation Date:
Plano Senior High School, Class of 2014

College and Graduation Date:
UT Austin, Class of 2019

Undergraduate Major:
Neuroscience; Plan II

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
I worked as a Resident Assistant in undergrad, and I frequently took care of residents that were injured or fell ill. During this time, I also hosted social programs aimed to improve my residents overall mental health and well-being. However, I often felt that there was more I could do for them. I decided to apply to medical school because I felt limited by my training as an undergraduate student and felt that a medical degree would allow me to not only improve my patients’ quality of care, but also my community’s quality of life.

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
I was drawn to UTRGV for a multitude of reasons. It’s the most affordable medical school in Texas; since finances were a source of stress for me in undergrad, this was a major advantage to me. I also felt that the curriculum was set up to be as conducive to our learning and education as possible. In addition, it was a newer medical school with a smaller class size, with an administration that was extra receptive to the concerns of its students, which gave the school a community feel that made me feel welcome and listened to.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I’m very interested in improving medical education, to make it more accessible for students of all socioeconomic backgrounds; I’m also interested in improving surgical outcomes, as I’m interested in a career in surgery.

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
One of my current areas of interest is in improving medical education, to ensure that people of all socioeconomic backgrounds are able to access the tools they need to succeed. The less stressful studying is for students, the more knowledge and time they will have to give back to their communities.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I recently underwent emergency abdominal surgery! It taught me more about our healthcare system, gave me a closer look at my physicians’ decision-making skills and bedside manner, and most importantly, put me in the shoes of my future patients and the physical and emotional stress they may experience. It was an eye-opening experience that will guide my medical decision-making in the future.

Stephanie Onyechi: SGA Class of 2022 Co-Chair; Stephanie.Onyechi@utrgv.edu

Stephanie Onyechi

Stephanie Onyechi
SGA Class of 2022 Co-Chair
Email: Stephanie.Onyechi@utrgv.edu

Complete Name (First and Last):
Stephanie Onyechi

Hometown:
Sugar Land, Texas

High School and Graduation Date:
Kempner High School 2011

College and Graduation Date:
Baylor University 2015

Undergraduate Major:
Health Sciences

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
I've seen firsthand how the restoration of a body has an effect not just on a singular patient but on entire communities and spheres of influence. I think one of the most powerful ways to serve my fellow man is to help them reach their fullest potential, and I think medicine is the best way to do that.

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
First and foremost, UTRGV offered me an institution dedicated to serving marginalized groups. This is what I hope to dedicate my career to, and I felt that attending a school with a similar mission statement to my own was important. Additionally, as new school there are so many ways to be involved in my education and shaping a culture of student doctors. This excited me.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I am interested in social determinants of health and ways to minimize barriers to healthcare in order reach a more equitable society. Advances in medicine are useless if they don't reach the people who need them the most.

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
By creating a safe space for my colleagues to voice concerns and suggestions, I hope to promote diversity of thought among my classmates.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I'm vegan!

Sahar Panjwani: SGA Class of 2022 Cameron County Co-Chair; Sahar.Panjwani01@utrgv.edu

Sahar Panjwani

Sahar Panjwani
SGA Class of 2022 Cameron County Co-Chair
Email: Sahar.Panjwani01@utrgv.edu

Complete Name (First and Last):
Sahar Panjwani

Hometown:
Scottsdale, AZ and Sugar Land, TX

High School and Graduation Date:
BASIS Scottsdale - May 2014

College and Graduation Date:
Emory University - May 2018

Undergraduate Major:
Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology with a minor in Economics

Graduate School and Graduation Date:
N/A

Graduate Major:
N/A

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
I was inspired to pursue a career in medicine by my parents, who are both healthcare professionals. After seeing their passion and dedication for the field, I further explored medicine through shadowing and volunteering opportunities and found myself wanting to learn more about the way the body worked. I loved hearing the physicians talk about patient cases and found myself enjoying every patient interaction I had. Medicine combines all of my favorite things: helping people, collaboration, algorithms, problem-solving, and making people smile!

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
UTRGV School of Medicine had everything I was looking for in a school! I wanted a school with a strong sense of community, ample leadership opportunities, caring faculty, and the opportunity to serve underserved communities. I have found all of that and more during my time here. Not only have I been able to work on unique research projects that benefit our unique patient population and learn about rare disease pathologies but I also have been fortunate to be surrounded by some of the most motivated students who inspire me daily.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I have a vested interest in public health and medical education research, both of which I have been able to pursue further in medical school. Within the realm of public health, I think it is important to explore the impact of social determinants of health and look for solutions to the problems that our patient populations face. In terms of medical education, I think research to further improve patient safety curriculum is important as well as ways to reduce burnout amongst medical students. Both of these topics are ones that I am very passionate about and have been able to create research projects to further explore them.

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
A diverse student body is one of the strengths of the school and I strongly believe that we need to make sure that everyone's voice is heard. By addressing concerns that are brought up by all students and advocating for inclusive language and learning from those around us, I believe we can ensure that everyone feels comfortable being themselves while at school.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I like to do long division when I'm stressed.

Kevin Orellana: SGA Class of 2023 Hidalgo County Co-Chair; Kevin.Orellana01@utrgv.edu

Kevin Orellana

Kevin Orellana
SGA Class of 2023 Hidalgo County Co-Chair
Email: Kevin.Orellana01@utrgv.edu

Complete Name (First and Last):
Kevin Orellana

SGA Position:
Class of 2023 Co-chair (Hidalgo County)

Hometown:
Pflugerville, TX

High School and Graduation Date:
Hendrickson High School, 2013

College and Graduation Date:
St. Edward’s University, 2017

Undergraduate Major:
Biology

Graduate School and Graduation Date:
University of Texas at Dallas

Graduate Major:
Biomedical Sciences

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
I grew up going to the doctor with my brother who has cerebral palsy and various orthopedic abnormalities as a consequence. Many times I served as a translator between the physicians and my mom who did not know much English at the time. This early exposure to medicine sparked my interest in medicine and gave me the motivation to one day help people like my brother.

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
Coming from a small undergraduate community, I knew that I would be more successful in a place with increased interaction with all students and faculty. The fact that UTRGV was so new also attracted me in that I knew I had a unique opportunity to help shape the school’s culture and legacy for future classes. Additionally, I have a strong passion for serving underserved communities and when I interviewed here, the thing that stood out the most was the school’s commitment to providing healthcare for a community that has gone so long without it. I could see no better place to learn medicine than somewhere that values the same things I do.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
Musculoskeletal deformity and healthcare disparities. I am originally from Guatemala and one of the main reasons my family came to the US was to have a better opportunity to provide the right care for my brother. These are topics near and dear to me and I hope that through research, we can prevent families having to leave their homes in search of proper healthcare.

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
By being transparent and open to communication with our student body. This will create a safe space where all students, regardless of background, can express their questions and concerns in a judgement free and constructive place.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I raced go-karts semi-professionally right until starting medical school

Miguel Garza: SGA Class of 2024 Co-Chair

Miguel Garza

Miguel Garza
SGA Class of 2024 Co-Chair

Complete Name (First and Last):
Miguel Garza

Hometown:
I was raised in Reynosa, Mexico, but I lived in McAllen, TX for my high school years.

High School and Graduation Date:
Sharyland High School, Class of 2016

College and Graduation Date:
University of Texas at Austin, Class of 2020

Undergraduate Major:
Biology BSA

Graduate School and Graduation Date:
N/A

Graduate Major:
N/A

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
My first interest in medicine occurred after my grandfather had colon cancer. I got to be at the hospital and really liked the impact that you could make in the lives of each patient.

Why did you choose to attend UTRGV School of Medicine?
I really liked the community health focus of the school. I truly want to help the RGV gradually become a better place, and I want to help the RGV be a healthier place. Also, I really liked the fact that the school is new and with a very small faculty-student ratio. Professors and administrators truly listen to what everyone has to say, which has been very valuable.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
On the medical side, I’m broadly interested in cardiology research. I also really like public health topics of research such as the high prevalence of chronic diseases in the valley and the social determinants of health.

As a UTRGV SOM Student Government Officer and representative, how can you help to promote diversity and inclusion amongst your student colleagues and in the classroom?
This could be done by helping promote all the minority advancement in medicine organizations and celebrating them, by trying to reflect the class’ needs equally, by encouraging different perspectives and opinions from everyone, and creating a sense of openness and inclusion within the board.

What is one interesting fact that others might not know about you and that you are willing to share?
I love playing and watching soccer.

Meet Our Medical Students

D’Andrea Ceasar: Medical Student (Class of 2021); Dandrea.Ceasar01@utrgv.edu

D’Andrea Ceasar

D’Andrea Ceasar
Medical Student (Class of 2021)
Email: Dandrea.Ceasar01@utrgv.edu

Name: D’Andrea Ceasar
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Year in Medical School: MS2
Undergraduate School: Baylor University

D’Andrea Ceasar is a second-year medical student from Houston, Texas. Ceasar currently serves as vice president of the Women’s Health Interest Group and the Emergency Medicine Interest Group, as well as the SNMA liaison for Minority Advancement in Medicine, head girl for the Academic Houses of Success and is a peer tutor. She completed her undergraduate studies at Baylor University and her main research interests are maternal mortality rates and pre-mature birth rates among African American women.

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
Vice President of Women’s Health Interest group, Vice President Emergency Medicine Interest Group, SNMA Liaison for Minority Advancement in Medicine, Head Girl for the Academic Houses of Success, Peer Tutor

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I have known I wanted to be a doctor since I was a little girl. My love of science and medicine pushed me to find a career that would allow to pursue that while also helping others. After my grandfather was diagnosed with lung cancer, and I was able to see how important it is to love what you do and keep the patient first, I knew that becoming a physician was the career path for me.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
I wanted to attend a school that would help mold me into the type of physician that I wanted to be. Underserved communities and health in minority populations are also important to me, so attending a school where that was a priority was extremely important to me. UTRGV School of Medicine fit the core values I was looking for in my medical school education, and I am truly blessed to be able to complete my medical education here.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
Anesthesia and Emergency Medicine probably interest me the most at this moment, but I am still leaving myself open to other specialties especially going into third year. Anesthesia because I really enjoy the physiology and pharmacology that is involved. Emergency Medicine because I enjoy the environment, and this is where I can appeal to the side of me that loves medicine and procedures.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
The areas of research that interest me the most are those that focus on African American maternal mortality and pre-mature birth rates, and how, regardless of education or socioeconomic status, we are still the highest at risk. Being an African American woman myself this is something I am truly passionate about because it hits so close to home.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
UTRGV SOM gives me the avenue to not only pursue positions of leadership, but also the ability to provide patient care in underserved areas. My interest in medicine started because I wanted to help people through medicine, which is my passion, and UTRGV SOM gives me that opportunity.

Tell me about the summer about your first and second year of medical school. Did you engage in any interesting research?
The summer between first and second year I participated in two preceptorships. One in family medicine and one in pediatrics. I truly enjoyed those preceptorships because I got a lot of hands-on experience in taking patient histories, performing physical exams, and learning how to present a patient to my attending.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
I can’t whistle.

Victoria Cuello: Medical Student (Class of 2025)

Victoria Cuello

Victoria Cuello
Medical Student (Class of 2025)

Name: Victoria Cuello
Hometown: Mission, TX
Year in Medical School: Incoming first year student
Undergraduate School: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
As an undergraduate, I enjoyed being a part of MEDLIFE, a volunteer-run public-health club that stands for “Medicine, Education and Development for Low Income Families Everywhere.” Its mission is that access to quality healthcare and education are fundamental rights. We volunteered in our community and helped send groups to service learning trips in Latin American countries.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I knew I wanted to become a doctor during high school. My decision was based on various experiences that spurred in me the desire to help others through medicine and influence my community in a concrete way. Volunteering in a colonia, seeing my own parents struggle in understanding the United States’ healthcare system, beginning to understand the Valley’s health care disparities and the need for more primary prevention, and the fact that so many diseases disproportionately affect minority populations, are all issues that inspire me to learn more.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine (SOM)?
I suppose it started when I first heard on the radio that a school of medicine would be built in the Valley. I loved the idea of staying close to family. I later realized just how committed this school was to understanding the social health determinants involved in a population where over a third have no health insurance and where diabetes, hypertension and poverty are intrinsically related. When you form a school based on the population that it will serve, that’s something special.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
Right now, I am gravitating more toward internal or family medicine, even though I want to keep an open mind toward other specialties as well. I have always admired how primary care allows a physician to forge relationships with families and with patients. I would also love to practice in Hispanic communities.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
It is amazing how quickly this school of medicine has developed to include team-based learning, new and exciting research, and a focus on the patient and the Hispanic community. Finally, the current pandemic has made it even more clear just how important having a school of medicine is to this area. All of this has definitely spurred my interest in medicine.

What are your plans for engaging in research this summer?
With the pandemic and with school beginning soon, I don’t see myself committing to research just yet. I would like to begin research again after learning to adjust to the workload as a new student. I’m interested in different things, including community-based research, so we’ll see where that takes me.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
Both of my parents immigrated from South America, and so I have lived in different countries and in different states in the past.

Jonathan Guajardo: Medical Student (Class of 2021); Jonathan.Guajardo01@utrgv.edu

Jonathan Guajardo

Jonathan Guajardo
Medical Student (Class of 2021)
Email: Jonathan.Guajardo01@utrgv.edu

Name: Jonathan Guajardo
Hometown: Baytown
Year in Medical School: Third Year
Undergraduate School: Baylor University

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?

I’m president of the Latino Medical Student Association which takes up most of my time for extracurricular activities.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?

My initial reason to be a doctor was not noble at all compared to my current drive. I grew up in a lower socioeconomic rung and my parents always told me to pursue education so as to escape the hardships we experienced. I chose to be a doctor because that’s what my elementary self thought would provide a safe and wealthy lifestyle. Soon my motives started to change, I remember when I was 13 years old, I saw True Life: I’m Deaf on MTV, it was a segment on teenagers whom were receiving cochlear implants. When I saw how their faces lit up once they could hear I made the decision right there that I wanted to be able to care for people in the same manner. Over the years, my personal experiences and encounters with various communities have solidified that wealth and self-gain is in the least of my interests, and that what I truly want is to give back to the community and have a practice that I can be proud of.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?

I chose the UTRGV SOM for multiple reasons. Despite being from Houston I have close ties with the Valley, many of my extended family lives here and my grandparents live in Nuevo Leon. After spending four years of undergrad away from them I wanted my family to be more accessible. Additionally, UTRGV SOM offered me the opportunity to contribute towards the establishment of a new School of Medicine.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?

My interest lies heavily with Rural Medicine. When I laid all my options out I couldn’t decide which specialty to choose so I chose all of them. Rural medicine typically goes through the route of Family Medicine but with extra emphasis on OB/GYN, Emergency medicine and Orthopedics. I want to have a practice in which I get to know my patients intimately and care for them for as long as possible. With a rural medicine training, I will be able to cater to a smaller patient population and provide medical care at a higher standard that I can be proud of.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?

My research background isn’t as developed as I would like, but one can only do so much while you’re in medical school. My experience with research has been very varied from lab work such as growing leukemia cell lines or promoting copper enzyme expression and out in the field, going door to door, filling out needs assessments. I greatly prefer working out in the streets. I had an amazing experience doing needs assessments for the communities of Watts and Wilmington, California. Once we explained to the heads of households why we were doing these surveys from door to door, we were welcomed with open arms and more generosity than I could have imagined. With those needs assessments we were able to bring forth and address the quality of air and water that were contributing towards pediatric and adult asthma exacerbations and unsafe levels of heavy metals in the community’s tap water. Being able to help the community first hand is a great joy of mine and this area of research is something I see myself doing for a good part of my career.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?

As a third year going through clinical rotations, I’ve seen the care our programs provide for the community and gotten to listen to what the community says firsthand about the SOM. Honestly, it’s the peoples words of encouragement that further my drive to see this career through.

What are your plans for engaging in research this summer?

Unfortunately, this summer will be spent mostly finishing up my Surgery rotation and studying for STEP 2 to get ready for residency applications. Research will have to wait until fourth year.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?

I’m relatively well versed in handyman trades and cooking. My father had me working by his side as soon as I was big enough to help with anything and everything. He had me help him with carpentry, plumbing, demolition, wiring, welding, ranching, etc. By the time I was around 14 he would have me work on projects by myself and he’d have my brother assist him. Similarly, my mother taught me how to cook and clean. My brothers and I were helping clean the bathrooms and wash clothes as soon as we could walk. I hated it for most of my life, but when I moved out at 18 and started fixing common household problems at college without difficulty and actually eating well, I came to thoroughly appreciate those lessons they forced upon me. I love you mom and dad!

Baine Herrera: Medical Student (Class of 2021); Baine.Herrera01@utrgv.edu

Baine Herrera

Baine Herrera
Medical Student (Class of 2021)
Email: Baine.Herrera01@utrgv.edu

Baine Herrera, a second-year medical student at the UTRGV School of Medicine, graduated from The University of Texas at Austin in 2012 with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology. At UT Austin, he helped investigate new techniques in cancer cell detection. Before applying for medical school, Herrera worked for Houston Methodist Hospital and Legacy Community Health—one of Texas’s largest Federally Qualified Health Centers. At Methodist, Herrera researched and published the organization’s 2013 Community Health Needs Assessments—one for each of the five Houston Methodist hospitals. At Legacy, Herrera served as the government grants writer, where he helped secure 35 awards totaling $23 million dollars in federal, state, county, and city grant awards that supported community health initiatives. His medical interests include Urology, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Anesthesia, Surgery, and Internal Medicine. Currently he serves as president of the School of Medicine’s Student Government Association.

What inspired you to become a doctor?
I have the good fortune of having multiple avenues of inspiration. I have two wonderful parents who emphasized and demonstrated the joy of serving others and working on behalf of your community. I went to a Jesuit high school and firmly believe in the ethos of “Men for Others”. I have been extremely blessed to have known, been mentored by, or worked with fantastic physicians. I saw the impact they had. I saw an opportunity to grow as a person. I saw an opportunity to influence my community in a positive manner. I can’t imagine a more interesting, fortunate, or better opportunity to go to work every day.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
I always tell potential medical students during their interview day with UTRGV School of Medicine that people make the place and the place makes the experience. We have fantastic people here. From our faculty, staff, students, and everyone in between, I have zero doubt that this is one of the state’s finest institutions. It’s all about people. Welcoming, friendly, familial, and community-oriented, I am so proud of our school and what it stands for. When I came for my interview I left feeling the vibrant life blood of the school’s community and wanted to be a part of it. I drove straight home to Houston and remember telling my girlfriend and friends that if I was lucky enough to see myself matched to UTRGV School of Medicine I wouldn’t think twice about going.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
While at the University of Texas at Austin, I worked under Dr. Sara Goodwin as part of the Ellington Lab’s work on aptamers (short snippets of DNA). I worked with Dr. Goodwin from September 2010 to December 2012. I participated in research that explored using aptamer binding patterns in cancer cell typing and detection. I specifically utilized molecular biology lab techniques such as PCR, qPCR, and RT-PCR, and gel electrophoresis. That was a long time ago.

As far as medical research goes, I’d like to explore patient safety, male reproductive health, inflammation, infectious disease, technology and rehabilitation, and the economics of future reimbursement models.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
One of the best parts of the pre-clerkship curriculum that we have is just how much exposure our students get to long-practiced physicians from various fields. For example, Problem Based Learning is a major part of our week. We spend time exploring and discussing real cases during the week before having a specialist come give a grand rounds type lecture. Our students are able to meet and get a sense of various specialties through these interactions.

Additionally, UTRGV School of Medicine’s curriculum has 12 weeks separating the first and second year. This helped me foster my own interests in medicine. I believe a student can take advantage of this time to complete one or more clerkships, precept with a physician, start and finish a research project, travel, see family and friends, and generally grow personally and professionally. These experiences can be deeply influential for our students and their futures.

Tell me about the summer about your first and second year of medical school. Did you engage in any interesting research?
I spent eight weeks with the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation residency program at Johns Hopkins Hospital. I learned an incredible amount from that experience. I was able to improve my clinical skillset, learn about a specialty most people have never heard of, interact with patients, grow under mentorship from residents and faculty alike, and experience life in a new city.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
I used 4 of the 12 summer weeks to travel and hike over 160 miles of the Colorado Trail.

Shea-Lynn Hopson: Medical Student (Class of 2021); Shealynn.Hopson01@utrgv.edu

Shea-Lynn Hopson

Shea-Lynn Hopson
Medical Student (Class of 2021)
Email: Shealynn.Hopson01@utrgv.edu

Name: Shea-Lynn Hopson
Hometown: Evansville, Indiana
Year in Medical School: M2
Undergraduate School: Northwestern University, Texas State University

Shea-Lynn Hopson is a second-year student at The University of Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine. She is a career changer and started her journey into medicine by becoming an EMT-basic in Austin, Texas. Though she was born in Detroit, Michigan, she considers Evansville, Indiana her hometown. Shea-Lynn attended Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois and has an interest in emergency medicine and urology.

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
I am the secretary for the UTRGV American Medical Association/Texas Medical Association (AMA/TMA) chapter, the academic chair for the Emergency Medicine Interest Group, and I serve on the student board of the UTRGV Student-Run Clinic.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I have wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember. However, I grew up in a very challenging home environment that made pursuit of a career in medicine very difficult. I graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering and then went to work as a tire designer for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. I worked for a year before returning to school at Washington University in St. Louis. There I earned an MBA with a concentration in finance. I was recruited by Dell technologies and this move brought me to Texas. After spending nine years at Dell, I still yearned to become a physician. I left Dell in 2014 and completed most of my pre-requisites at Texas State University in San Marcos.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
As a non-traditional student, I wanted to be able to serve patients as soon as possible. The appeal of the UTRGV SOM was in the focus on community health and community care. Having a chance to impact patient care right away was a big draw for me.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
My time spent training as an EMT inspired an interest in emergency medicine. I like the versatility of the role and the variety of patient profiles and treatment strategies. As an African-American, I also feel a need to advocate for underrepresented communities that visit the ER. It is well documented that minorities often receive less pain medication and less attentive treatment than their majority peers.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
One area of research that strongly interests me is the impact of societal stressors on the health of underrepresented minorities. For example, in a presentation on HIV, we learned that white males that test positive may remain asymptomatic for up to 10 years. This figure was two years for African-American and Hispanic males. Understanding these differences can have a significant impact on treatment modalities and patient prognoses.

Areeb Masood: Medical Student (Class of 2022); Areeb.Masood01@utrgv.edu

Areeb Masood

Areeb Masood
Medical Student (Class of 2022)
Email: Areeb.Masood01@utrgv.edu

Name: Areeb Masood
Hometown: Austin, TX
Year in Medical School: MS1
Undergraduate School: The University of Texas at Austin

Areeb Masood, a first-year medical student from Austin, Texas, is the academic chair for the Class of 2022 and was recently elected as student body president for the UTRGV School of Medicine. Masood’s research interests include food insecurity and the social determinants of health that contribute to food insecurity. He, along with other first-year medical students, are involved in a student-led research project focusing on food insecurity among pediatric patients in the Rio Grande Valley.

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
I am currently the Academic Chair for the Class of 2022. I was recently elected to be the incoming Student Body President for the School of Medicine.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
My interest in becoming a doctor was always shaped by my dad’s journey through medicine. I watched him pivot from his career in general surgery in the United Kingdom to internal medicine in the United States. As a young kid, I have memories of him grinding through residency at Brackenridge Hospital. There were days my siblings and I would wake up and go to sleep without seeing him. But I also have extremely fond memories of him being truly satisfied and humbled from the impact he made on patients. He seamlessly carried the lessons of care and respect from the hospital to the community around him. He taught me to help others and value every individual’s unique struggles and contributions to society. Witnessing this honest, unpackaged view of medicine ignited my passion for being a doctor at an early age. As I progressed through my academic career, I really enjoyed scientific problem solving and teaching, and I came to realize that medicine offered me an outlet for this passion. Community service experiences like Camp Kesem (a summer camp for children whose parents were diagnosed with cancer) and my mom’s cancer diagnosis gave me a newfound perspective on the hope that medical care provides for patients and their families. These reasons inspired me to become a doctor.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
Growing up in a close-knit Pakistani immigrant family, the idea of community has always meant a lot to me. There’s an indescribable feeling about having people in your corner, whether that’s friends, family, or mentors, who are willing to support and advocate for you during life’s toughest times. During my interview at UTRGV SOM, I felt that sense of community, and it was a big reason why I ultimately chose to pursue my medical education here. Additionally, I was really interested by the school’s proximity to US-Mexico border. Throughout the application process, I learned more about the colonias of South Texas. These communities are microcosms of America’s transitional ethnic climate, and their growing populations face a unique host of medical problems due to lack of sanitation and access to affordable health care. By choosing UTRGV SOM, I knew I had a unique opportunity to not only learn more about health issues affecting these communities, but also to directly impact them through constructive medical research and community service.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
I am currently interested in specialties like radiology, hematology/oncology, surgical oncology, and general internal medicine. From the limited exposure that I’ve had to specialties. I’m drawn to fields that incorporate spatial reasoning, critical thinking, and procedures.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
One area of research that is particularly interesting to me right now is food insecurity and the social determinants of health that contribute to food insecurity. I am currently working on a student-led research project with fellow MS1s that specifically focuses on food insecurity among pediatric patients in the Rio Grande Valley. This project really interests me because the pediatric population of the Rio Grande Valley is disproportionately affected by the consequences of food insecurity - due to a multitude of reasons such as higher rates of uninsured families and lack of accessible healthcare infrastructure. My team hopes to study various aspects of food insecurity, and ultimately create sustainable solutions in provider care and resource accessibility to combat the growing issue.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
I’ve always been interested in medical academia and, more specifically, teaching medical students/residents in the future. I love the idea of being able to take a complicated concept and synthesizing it. Our curriculum really focuses on collaborative learning through Problem Based Learning, where we work through a patient case with our designated groups. The back-and-forth process of talking through medical pathophysiology really helps me figure out ways that I can improve both as a learner and teacher.

What are your plans for engaging in research this summer?
This coming summer, I plan on performing research at McGovern Medical School in the Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging. More specifically, I will focus on musculoskeletal radiology in relation to sports trauma and pathology. I am also currently working under the mentorship of a breast and body imaging physician at MD Anderson. This research project centers around multimodality imaging of stromal fibrosis of the breast. I will continue this project into the early part of the summer. In addition to these projects, I will continue my student-led research project about food insecurity.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
GoPro featured one of my photographs on their website and social media.

Ronkino McCoy: Medical Student (Class of 2022); Ronkino.Mccoy01@utrgv.edu

Ronkino McCoy

Ronkino McCoy
Medical Student (Class of 2022)
Email: Ronkino.Mccoy01@utrgv.edu

Name: Ronkino McCoy
Hometown: Malden, Missouri
Year in Medical School: Class of 2022
Undergraduate School: St. Edward’s University Austin, Texas

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?

Military Medicine Interest Group- Treasurer
American Medical Student Association- Treasurer

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?

I’ve always known I wanted to be a doctor, but I didn’t full commit to the idea of becoming a doctor until a was 23. What finally inspired me to commit to becoming a doctor was when I realized that becoming a doctor would also put me in a position to advocate for people whose voices would otherwise go unheard or intentionally ignored. Furthermore, becoming a physician will help me fully understand the barriers that people in my situation must overcome to accomplish whatever aspirations they might have. By accomplishing my dreams, I’ll have a better understanding of how to inspire others to do the same.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?

I choose UTRGV because of its active commitment to producing physicians that are willing to provide health care and resources to populations that are underserved. I don’t have to be blind to color, gender, ethnicity, or social status here. I can embrace the idea of social equity to ensure that every population has what it needs to thrive.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?

As of now, I’m most interested in disaster medicine/emergency medicine and critical care surgery. I have always loved disaster response medicine and critical care surgery. It’s hard to replicate the feeling of providing hope to people when things seem hopeless.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?

The areas of research that interest me most are in improving disaster response in medicine, improving outcome of trauma patients, and social justice and police/government behavior. My research interests are guided by what I’m passionate about.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered you interests in pursuing a career in medicine?

Whether it’s a student mentor, PBL facilitator, professor, or staff member, every conversation I’ve had about my interest has turned into an active pursuit to ensure that I can learn more about it. It has given me exposure to careers in medicine I didn’t know existed.

What are your plans this summer for engaging in research?

For summer research, I will be conducting research on improving the care of trauma patients at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Oregon.

Sarah Miller: Medical Student (Class of 2021); Sarah.Miller02@utrgv.edu

Sarah Miller

Sarah Miller
Medical Student (Class of 2021)
Email: Sarah.Miller02@utrgv.edu

Name: Sarah Miller
Hometown: Grapevine, TX
Year in Medical School: MS2
Undergraduate School: University of Rhode Island
Graduate School: University of Michigan

Sarah Miller, a second-year medical student at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine, graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology. Before coming to medical school, Sarah worked as an EMT in Fort Worth, Texas, and received her Master of Public Health in Global Health Epidemiology at the University of Michigan. Though she has lived all over the country, Sarah considers Grapevine, Texas, her hometown. She currently serves as the Student Government Association Treasurer, a Student Ambassador, and the Immediate Past President of the Texas Medical Association/American Medical Association chapter. Sarah’s research interests include global health and the ways in which barriers to healthcare can be addressed in underserved communities both in the U.S. and abroad.

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
I currently serve as the Student Government Association Treasurer, a Student Ambassador, and the Immediate Past President of the Texas Medical Association/American Medical Association (TMA/AMA) chapter. I am a part of the SafeMD, Big Sib/Little Sib, and Research Symposium Committees and am involved in several student-led research projects. I also recently served on the inaugural Gala Committee.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I didn’t know that I wanted to be a doctor until I was almost done with my undergraduate degree. For most of my life I was adamant that I was going to be a marine biologist, but after a research project on cancer in sea urchins I became interested in the ways that marine organisms could be used as model systems for human disease. This newfound interest inspired me to take a public health class while circumnavigating the globe on the Semester at Sea program where I was able to visit the Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town, South Africa. Standing in the operating theater where the first heart transplant was successfully completed made me realize that I wanted to not only be a part of improving health and decreasing disparities at a population level, but also to help people on an individual basis.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
I am passionate about global health and the concept that all public health is global health. This passion drew me to UTRGV as I learned more about the school’s mission and the communities that it serves. I want to be able to give back to the communities that I am a part of throughout my medical career and coming to a school where there is a strong emphasis on community involvement was the right choice for me.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
I’m currently interested in pursuing either ophthalmology or obstetrics and gynecology. I like that there can be a balance between surgery and medicine with continuity of care in both of these specialties. I also hope to continue doing research and global health work throughout my carrier and either of these specialties would provide a fantastic opportunity to do so.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I am currently most interested in global health related research. I am passionate about addressing health disparities and enjoy studying both the underlying mechanisms as well as exploring possible solutions. I have worked on projects ranging from telemedicine to genetics and look forward to continuing this pursuit throughout my medical career.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
The UTRGV School of Medicine has given me the opportunity to hold numerous leadership positions and has supported me as I pursue a range of research projects. Through the School of Medicine, I have worked with a variety of physicians and gained valuable connections across the medical community. I have also been able to give back and advocate for health at the local, state and national levels through working directly with patients, resolution writing, and lobbying.

Tell me about the summer between your first and second year of medical school. Did you engage in any interesting research?
Between first and second year of medical school I completed a research project analyzing the prevalence and underlying genetic components of glaucoma in a Nepalese population through the South Texas Diabetes and Obesity Institute. This project allowed me to learn new data analysis methods and create connections within the research community here in the Rio Grande Valley. I was also able to give an oral presentation at the second annual School of Medicine Research Symposium.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
I have been to over 35 countries on four continents.

Sonya Rivera Montez: Medical Student (Class of 2021)

Sonya Rivera Montez

Sonya Rivera Montez
Medical Student (Class of 2021)

Name: Sonya Rivera Montes
Hometown: Brownsville, TX
Year in Medical School: 4th Year Medical Student, M.D. Candidate Class of 2021
Undergraduate School: The University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA)

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
I currently serve as a mentor for the National Hispanic Medical Association College Health Scholars program. I am also the former vice-president of the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA).

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
My life experiences and my desire to expand my medical knowledge has been my motivation to attend medical school. After seeing many undergo chemo/radiation treatments and with the loss of a loved one to cancer, I focused on expanding my medical knowledge. The medical field called to me for many distinct reasons: I could help patients in their overall well-being, establish physician-patient relationships, and be compassionate. After personal reflection, I decided to further my studies by attending medical school.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
I grew up in Brownsville, Texas, where most of the population speaks or understands the Spanish language. Living in a border town has given me exposure to traditional Hispanic culture, customs, and beliefs. As a native Spanish speaker, I can relate well to the patients of our community. I obtained my bachelor’s and master’s degree at UTPA before it merged to become UTRGV. I was very fortunate to be able to continue my medical education at UTRGV School of Medicine. Obtaining my education in the RGV has allowed me to continue my education while staying close to my family and community. After residency, I plan to continue to serve my medically underserved community, the Rio Grande Valley.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
I am interested in working in internal medicine. I enjoy building relationships with patients, especially in their time of need. I strongly believe that patient education and communication is a top priority. Also, it enables me to offer preventative care and focus on treating adult patients.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
By attending the UTRGV School of Medicine, I was able to continue my medical education in my community. The school of medicine has allowed me to see more of the patient population that I plan on serving as a physician. I had the opportunity to network with other community physicians, learned more about the available resources in the community, and had first-hand interactions with the community itself. I participated in several interest groups to see which one is my calling. I spoke with different physicians in different specialties that helped me foster my career choice.

What are your plans for engaging in research this summer?
I am currently completing a scholarly activity elective. I am working as the co-investigator of this research project.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
I enjoy running in my spare time.

Vania Nwokolo: Medical Student (Class 2021); Vania.Nwokolo01@utrgv.edu

Vania Nwokolo

Vania Nwokolo
Medical Student (Class 2021)
Email: Vania.Nwokolo01@utrgv.edu

Patrick Ojeaga: Medical Student (Class of 2021); Patrick.Ojeaga01@utrgv.edu

Patrick Ojeaga

Patrick Ojeaga
Medical Student (Class of 2021)
Email: Patrick.Ojeaga01@utrgv.edu

Name: Patrick Ojeaga
Hometown: McAllen, Texas
Year in Medical School: MS2
Undergraduate School: The University of Texas at Austin

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
I currently serve as the American Medical Association/Texas Medical Association (AMA/TMA) chapter president, Student Ambassador, and as a Peer Tutor.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I always knew I wanted to pursue medicine because of its unique combination of science and service. I enjoy studying the complexities of the human body and want to be able to positively impact the lives of those I encounter.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
Growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, I witnessed countless people who were unable to receive vital healthcare services due to the lack of access or financial disparity. UTRGV School of Medicine’s mission caters to the needs of the community and commits to improving the standard of healthcare in the area. The opportunity to attend a medical school whose mission is purely centered around providing high-quality, compassionate care to the community that raised me was undeniable.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
I have taken a great interest in the specialties of orthopaedic surgery, otolaryngology and neurosurgery. Surgery will allow me to interact with individuals of all ages and backgrounds in both the clinic and operating room. I also want to solve difficult problems by using my cognitive and physical abilities.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I am most interested in pediatric clinical research that focuses on treatment protocols and process improvement strategies. During medical school and throughout my career, I want to make contributions that can help improve the standard of care for patients.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
UTRGV School of Medicine provides students the opportunity to explore various specialties by connecting us with local physicians for preceptorship and mentorship. They also provide me with the avenues and support to participate in the extracurricular activities that I am most passionate about.

Tell me about the summer between your first and second year of medical school. Did you engage in any interesting research?
During the summer between first and second year, I spent ten weeks conducting clinical research in the area of pediatric orthopaedics. This experience was unforgettable. I had the opportunity to conduct my own research project, while shadowing physicians in clinic and observing a wide variety of procedures in the operating room.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
I enjoy cooking and binge-watching TV shows on Netflix.

Chelsea Peterson: Medical Student (Class of 2021); Chelsea.Peterson01@utrgv.edu

Chelsea Peterson

Chelsea Peterson
Medical Student (Class of 2021)
Email: Chelsea.Peterson01@utrgv.edu

Name: Chelsea Peterson
Hometown: Littleton, Colorado
Year in Medical School: Class of 2021
Undergraduate School: Baylor University

Meet Chelsea Peterson, a second-year medical student from Littleton, Colorado. Peterson attended Baylor University and has an interest in researching public health and how it is used to reduce health disparities. Peterson recently was elected to serve as president of the Student Government Association.

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
Yes, I have been involved in the Student Government Association since my first year and am currently the student body president. I also co-founded the Public Health Interest Group and was the former treasurer for the Women’s Health Interest Group.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I’ve always found medicine fascinating, but was really able to put a reason behind my passion after visiting an obstetric fistula hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, when I was 13 years old. The women at this hospital had not had access to medical assistance during their pregnancy or delivery, and complications left them injured in such a way that they could not live a normal life, and were often ostracized from their communities. The physicians at this hospital had dedicated their lives to taking these women in and surgically repairing their bodies so they could re-enter their communities and live a normal life again. Medicine gave these people a second chance and it was at that point that I realized I, too, wanted to use medicine to give people a chance at life.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
When I was applying to medical schools across the country, I quickly realized they all seemed pretty similar, but UTRGV was one that stuck out to me because of its unique mission and location. Even the application was geared toward its mission and I felt it was truly looking for students with a desire to serve others. The school has a strong emphasis on cultural competency, collaboration and community involvement, and these values closely align with mine and how I want to practice medicine.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
I’m currently interested in obstetrics and gynecology. I’m drawn to the specialty, as it is an incredibly broad field, and is a specialty that would allow me to have a long-term relationship with patients but also work in a surgical setting. I’m also hoping to be involved in global health, so I’m interested in specialties with a broad focus, such as OB/GYN or, possibly, primary care.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I’m especially interested in public health research and using it to help reduce disparities in medicine. I recently did a research project on the effects of a nutritional rehabilitation center on the development of children with malnutrition in Lima, Peru. I hope to use research like this to improve health and healthcare distribution in populations with limited access to care.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
One way, in particular, the school has fostered my interest in medicine is through its emphasis on service and giving back to the community. The physicians at UTRGV School of Medicine have shown me what it truly means to treat patients holistically and advocate for their health and this inspires me every day. Despite the pressures and demands of the healthcare system, the physicians here place their patients first and are instilling in me values I will carry with me forever.

Tell me about the summer or your first or second year of medical school. Did you engage in any interesting research?
Between the summer of my first and second year I went to Lima, Peru, through UTMBs global health program. I worked with a pediatric infectious disease specialist and was able to participate in clinical, evaluation, educational and research-related experiences, as well as practice my Spanish! I was able to co-create a public health research project to study malnutrition and enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with people around the world on a similar project.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
In my former life, before medical school, I volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate and had the chance to advocate in court for children in the foster care system.

Adriana Saavedra-Simmons: Medical Student (Class of 2022); Adriana.Saavedra01@utrgv.edu

Adriana Saavedra-Simmons

Adriana Saavedra-Simmons
Medical Student (Class of 2022)
Email: Adriana.Saavedra01@utrgv.edu

Name: Adriana Saavedra-Simmons
Hometown: Edinburg, TX
Year in Medical School: MS2
Undergraduate School: Brown University

Adriana Saavedra-Simmons is a second-year medical student from Edinburg, Texas. She serves on the executive board of the UTRGV School of Medicine Student-Run Clinic, is a Student Ambassador, a student representative on the Association of American Medical Colleges’ Organization of Student Representatives for the Class of 2022, community service chair of the Latino Medical Student Association and a member of the Minority Advancement in Medicine. She is interested in hematology and will spend this summer conducting pediatric leukemia research at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital.

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?

- Student-Run Clinic Executive Board
- Student Ambassador
- Student Representative—OSR AAMC for the Class of 2022
- Latino Medical Student Association Community Service Chair
- Minority Advancement in Medicine Member

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?

I’ve been interested in healthcare professions since high school, but it was not until college that I realized the powerful impact a physician can have on patients. I admired physicians for their use of knowledge, in a compassionate manner, and I love that medicine gives me the opportunity to learn and work with others to improve a patient’s life. I cannot imagine myself pursuing another profession. Medicine is challenging at times yet rewarding and invigorating.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?

I chose UTRGV SOM for its commitment to service, supportive faculty, and its collaborative environment. Since Welcome Back Weekend, I felt welcomed as a valued member of the school. The curriculum caters to multiple styles of learning, and I have enjoyed getting to cooperate and learn from my professors and peers.

I also appreciate the many opportunities to be involved. Serving on the Student-Run Clinic Executive Board has been a wonderful experience that is teaching me how to best serve underserved communities. I have also enjoyed serving as a Student Ambassador in which I get to share how our school is unique and exemplary.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?

I am considering pursuing hematology, a subspecialty in internal medicine. I am intrigued by how ordered processes in our bodies can go awry and become self-destructive. When I first learned about hematology, it fascinated me that a nonspecific symptom such as fatigue may signal a malignancy. I recall sharing my newfound knowledge about chronic myelogenous leukemia with a group of university employees. One of the employees shared how her mom was misdiagnosed with iron-deficiency anemia and it was not until she was worked up for surgery, that a CML diagnosis was made. By that time, it was too late, and she passed away several months later. Her experience motivates me to learn more about how blood disorders are diagnosed and the steps necessary to avoid misdiagnosis. I desire to be the physician that bridges the gap for low-income patients with blood disorders.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?

UTRGV School of Medicine has refined my desire to serve underserved communities. Before I started medical school, I considered pursuing primary care to provide care to low-income communities. Now, I understand that I can serve the Rio Grande Valley through multiple outlets. Through various lectures and extracurricular experiences, I realize that I can serve underserved communities through advocacy while serving on committees that make decisions that impact health, in addition to providing medical care.

What are your plans for research this summer?

As part of the American Society of Hematology Minority Students Awards Program, I will be conducting pediatric leukemia research at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital. We will be comparing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines between high end-of-induction lymphocyte count and low end-of-induction lymphocyte count plasma samples in effort to better understand chemotherapy toxicity in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Given the increased survival rates of pediatric leukemia patients, researching the impact of chemotherapy-related toxicities is the next step in improving cancer care.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?

I wrote a poem titled “Pure in His Eyes” in high school and it was published in a collection of student poetry.

Vanessa Sanchez: Medical Student (Class of 2022)

Vanessa Sanchez

Vanessa Sanchez
Medical Student (Class of 2022)

Name: Vanessa Sanchez
Hometown: McAllen, TX
Year in Medical School: MS1
Undergraduate School: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Vanessa Sanchez, a first-year medical student from McAllen, Texas, is the academic chair for the Class of 2022 and a member of the UTRGV School of Medicine’s Student Government Association. She completed her undergraduate degree from UTRGV. Sanchez’s clinical interest is in obstetrics and gynecology and is interested in community-based research for health issues that affect the Rio Grande Valley.

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
I am a member of the Women’s Health Interest Group, the Texas Medical Association, and am currently the Academic Chair for the Class of 2022 as part of the Student Government Association.

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I was inspired by my parents’ health careers. I was intrigued ever since I was a little girl, so I decided to pursue that interest by volunteering at a local hospital. I decided I wanted to become a doctor, specifically, in tenth grade after first starting to volunteer.

Why did you choose UTRGV School of Medicine?
I chose UTRGV because it was close to home and it was important to me to still be close to my family. Also, the personal opportunities here are much more abundant than in other bigger schools. In addition, I love being able to serve and learn in the community I have called home for all my life. My goal is to stay and practice here.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
I am interested OB/GYN which has been influenced by my own health experiences as a patient. The best care I have ever received are from the OB/GYNs I have seen. I would like to be able to make my patients feel as comfortable as possible while providing the same great care I have received for similar issues. Additionally, I think it is a great way to empower women by helping them feel great about themselves and embracing the health of their womanhood.

What areas of research interest you the most? Why?
I am interested in community-based research for issues that are particularly concerning for the Valley. I hope to be able to contribute to bringing change by improving health outcomes for the people of our community.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
UTRGV, being a smaller and more tight-knit community than other schools, has made networking very easy. For example, through the Women’s Health Interest Group, I was able to talk to doctors of different fields and this is what caused me to really consider OB/GYN. Opportunities like this are so valuable and it’s great that we have many faculty and other doctors in the community willing to help and talk to us.

What are your plans for research and training this summer?
My plan for the summer is to stay in the area and get ahead on the second year’s material and schedule shadowing with a local OB/GYN to learn more about this field of medicine.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
One interesting fact some people may not know about me is that I recently got engaged!

Sonia Wadekar: Medical Student (Class of 2024)

Sonia Wadekar

Sonia Wadekar
Medical Student (Class of 2024)

Name: Sonia Wadekar
Hometown: Plano, TX
Year in Medical School: MS2
Undergraduate School: UTRGV

Do you serve on any student interest groups/organizations/activities? If so, which one(s)?
As an MS1 I was elected by my class to be Academic chair, which gave me a position in the Student Government Association (SGA). I was also elected as a Texas Medical Association (TMA) delegate. Now, as an MS2, I am the SGA Student Body President!

What inspired you to become a doctor? When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?
I had always been a huge science nerd as a child. It wasn’t until I got to high school did I truly start enjoying humanities and history. In college, I took a ‘Philosophy and Medical Ethics’ course and it truly opened my eyes to a new perspective of science and humanities combined. I shadowed a few physicians and saw the bearings of this course come to play. I loved how doctors thought about medical science to treat their patients, but also learned about their patient’s stories and advocated for them. Through a culmination of these small experiences, I came to realize becoming a doctor is truly what I wanted to do.

What specialties of medicine interest you the most? Why?
Even as an MS2, I’m still in limbo about what specialty I want to go into. But I do have some fields I’m interested in! I’m interested in orthopedics/sports medicine. I was an athlete my whole life and my orthopedic surgeon was always so inspiring. He helped me, many of my friends, and other athletes get fixed up so they could achieve their dreams. Another field of interest is OB GYN/women’s health. I’m a huge advocate for the idea of “women supporting women”, and what better way to do that than to be a gynecologist! It’s also a specialty with a good mix of surgery and clinic. I am also interested in family medicine. During my time in medical school, I have learned how preventive medicine can really change this country’s healthcare system for the better. One way to do so is to have more primary care physicians. PCPs are so crucial in helping patients navigate through good health and identify risk factors early on.

How has the UTRGV School of Medicine fostered your interests in pursuing a career in medicine?
UTRGV School of Medicine is a very community-driven school, which I admire a lot. I have seen firsthand what the school has done for the people in the valley, from Area Health Education Centers, to encouraging students to start a student-run clinic. One of my goals as a future physician, no matter what specialty I go into, is I want to be an advocate for my patients and the community I serve.

What are your plans for engaging in research this summer?
This summer I researched with and shadowed an orthopedic surgeon at UTSW. Due to COVID-19, there were a lot of initial restrictions and challenges, but luckily I was able to start a project that could be done entirely online. I also had the opportunity to participate in resident didactics and book clubs, learn how to suture on a kit and a cadaver, and scrub into the OR a few times a week to see hip and knee surgeries. It was an awesome experience and it definitely furthered my interest in orthopedics!

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you that you are willing to share?
I was a figure skater for nearly 13 years!

Diversity and Inclusion (UTRGV School of Medicine)

Diversity Team
Reports and Data
Diversity Categories
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Diversity In Action
Faculty Development Diversity Leadership Series

Contact

Sofia Hernandez
Chief Diversity Officer
Email: Sofia.Hernandez@utrgv.edu
Phone: (956) 296-1951

Resources

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Helpful Links

Diversity Strategic Plan
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Student Mistreatment
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