Hi! My name is Eva Reyes, and I’m a sophomore at Duke University on the pre-health track, with dreams of becoming a physician assistant. I’m passionate about health equity and building spaces where people, especially in Latino and underserved communities, feel seen, supported, and cared for.
At Duke, I serve as the Wellness Chair for Mi Gente, our Latino student organization, where I plan events around mental health, physical activity, and community connection. I’m also a proud Cardea Fellow, which has given me the mentorship, resources, and the occasional reminder to actually get enough sleep (still a work in progress).
Growing up in a rural area gave me a firsthand look at the challenges of accessing quality care, and it sparked my interest in public health and community-based solutions. Outside of class, I volunteer at Duke Hospital in the surgical waiting room, supporting patients’ families during procedures. I’m also involved in the Durham community, including volunteering with Parkinson’s patients to help improve mobility and quality of life. These experiences fuel my commitment to bridging healthcare gaps and serving patients both inside and outside the clinic.
When I’m off duty, you’ll probably find me at the gym chasing a new PR, curled up with a good book, or in full blue-and-white face paint as a Cameron Crazie, cheering my voice away in Cameron Indoor. I’m also a lifelong martial artist, holding a black belt in taekwondo and blue belts in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and judo. I love making creative gifts for my friends, exploring the best food spots in Durham, and hunting for unique thrift store finds. My goal is to blend medicine, culture, and community into a career that’s compassionate, impactful, and maybe even a little fun.
“Being a Cardea Fellow has rapidly become one of my favorite things about being a student at Duke. The support I receive from my other fellows and directors reminds me of why I am here and pushes me to keep going. Cardea inspires me to go above and beyond, empowering me to make a difference here at Duke and wherever I may go.”