Through the many difficulties our world has experienced over the past few years, I have found that a supportive community is a vital part of every environment, including Duke. This summer I participated in the Huang Fellows program where I was able to enjoy scientific research while also learning about the impacts that science and innovation have on communities. I have always had a love for science but my connection with individuals is what drove me to want to pursue a career in medicine. As the daughter of Mexican immigrants, I connected with my community by translating for Spanish-speaking families. I recognized the language barriers prominently present in the medical field. Beyond that, there is a barrier with understanding the difference in cultures. I want to be a part of the small percentage of female Hispanic physicians and provide care to those that may have encountered such barriers. Being a physician for me expands beyond physical care, it entails feeling empathetic with patients and their families, communicating transparently beyond the scientific jargon that many people find difficulties in understanding, and forming trust with each person. As a sophomore, I have begun my exploration of science through studying Neuroscience with minors in Global Health and Chemistry. Beyond my studies, I’m involved in Duke LIFE as an executive member to further support first-generation, low-income students, I’m working as a research assistant in the department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology in the Silver lab, and I’m a volunteer at El Futuro, a nonprofit bilingual outpatient clinic that provides mental health services for Latino families. In my free time, you’ll find me getting boba with friends, enjoying a Duke basketball game, or bingeing a show on Netflix. I’m very excited to continue my following years as a Cardea Fellow by exploring all the opportunities Duke has to offer!
“By being a Cardea we are not only offered resources and mentorship, we become a part of a community of supportive and encouraging peers. We all share a passion for healthcare and seek to make a change!”
