Basics
Hometown
San Antonio, Texas
College/University
Duke University
Medical School
Dell Medical School - The University of Texas at Austin
Advanced Degrees
Master of Business Administration (MBA), McCombs School of Business - The University of Texas at Austin
What are your career goals?
Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Oncology
Reflections on the Duke Program
What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a program that would provide a diverse patient population, challenge and support me to grow as a care provider, and foster a strong and supportive community among residents.
What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
The biggest strength of the Duke Program is how it balances being a world-class medical center that provides excellent patient care and training to its residents while also truly prioritizing a world-class institutional culture that permeates at all levels. At Duke, you not only get some of the best medical training in the world, you also gain a network of incredible interprofessional colleagues, peers, and mentors.
What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
Faculty and house staff have an excellent relationship at Duke. Faculty are passionate about facilitating your development as a learner and care provider, but are equally supportive of your physical and mental well-being. Additionally, faculty truly care about getting to know you as a person outside of the hospital and are always eager to connect you with potential mentors.
Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
My co-residents have been so fantastic to work with and get to know thus far! Duke does an exceptional job of bringing together a diverse and compassionate group of residents that truly become your family. My favorite part of connecting with my residents has been to learn their individual talents and passions outside of the hospital.
What has surprised you most about Duke?
As a Duke undergraduate, I was surprised by how much Durham and the medical community at Duke have grown in the last 5 years. I think it is a testament to how special of a city Durham is and Duke's culture that it continues to bring people together from across the globe.
About Life in Durham
What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
There are so many fantastic things about living in Durham! The food scene is spectacular, you get all of the pros of a large city without the hassles of traffic and parking, and you are a member of a diverse and vibrant community in the Research Triangle area.
How does the Triangle appeal to people of diverse backgrounds?
The Research Triangle is truly a melting pot of some of the brightest minds in the medical field. It brings together people from all over the world with incredibly diverse backgrounds and lived experiences, all under the shared passion of helping individuals get and stay healthy.
Where did you choose to live and why?
I chose to live in a townhome in South Durham. The area is next to Southpoint Mall and there are many amazing restaurants/breweries within just a few minute drive.
What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
As a massive Duke basketball fan and previous member of the Cameron Crazies (Duke basketball's student section), my best piece of advice for someone looking to move to Durham would be to stock up on Duke athletic gear! You should also reach out to one of the residents to get an extensive list of coffee shops, restaurants, and breweries that are essentials to try.
What are your interests outside of medicine?
Outside of medicine, I am a huge sports fan! I love going to Duke basketball and Durham Bulls (the local minor league baseball team) games in my free time, and on weekends there is always a game on my TV. Additionally, I love going on hikes and spending time exploring local spots with my co-residents.