During my time at the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine, I have focused on seeking opportunities to grow as a student and future physician through involvement in student organizations, research, and other academic initiatives.
Recently, I was honored to be selected as the Latin America Representative for the National Medical Student Committee of the Association of Women Surgeons (AWS). This role provides me the opportunity to represent Latin American and international medical students interested in surgery while creating new opportunities and connections that can support future physicians in their professional journeys.
Why I Applied
As a student originally from Puerto Rico who is studying medicine in Mexico, I understand that being an international medical student can be both rewarding and challenging. Through this position, I hope to help increase access to mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities for students throughout Latin America.
These goals inspired me to apply for the position. I want to help make the path toward residency more accessible and less overwhelming for students. I also hope to promote the inclusion and representation of Latin American and international medical students in academic and surgical spaces at both national and international levels.
The Application Process
I first learned about AWS by attending its Journal Club sessions. Through these experiences, my interest in surgery continued to grow, along with my desire to become involved in leadership opportunities that could help me contribute to the medical community.
I decided to apply when AWS announced elections for positions within the National Medical Student Committee in April. I applied for both the Social Media Committee
and the Latin America Regional Representative position. A few weeks later, I received an email inviting me to interview for the Regional Representative role.
The interview took place in May, and I was asked about the projects, initiatives, and vision I hoped to bring to the position. During the interview, I had the opportunity to connect with AWS leaders and share my experiences in research, leadership, and student involvement at UAG.
I am grateful that these experiences helped distinguish my application and ultimately led to my selection as the new Latin America Regional Representative.
My Vision for the Role
My vision for this position is to create opportunities for networking, research, mentorship, and leadership development for Latin American and international medical students. I also hope to promote guidance and real-world experiences shared by physicians, residents, and medical leaders who can help students navigate their professional journeys.
In addition, I hope to increase awareness of organizations such as AWS within my home community in Puerto Rico and throughout Latin America, helping more students discover opportunities for growth, mentorship, and professional development.
For UAG, I am also exploring the possibility of establishing an AWS chapter on campus to continue bringing valuable experiences, resources, and opportunities to students interested in surgery.
Looking Ahead
I believe that when students are given access to mentorship, networking, and leadership opportunities, they are empowered not only to achieve their own goals but also to inspire those who follow after them. My work in this role begins now, and I am excited to turn these ideas into meaningful initiatives that will benefit students throughout Latin America.
I am grateful to AWS, my mentors, and the UAG School of Medicine community for their support throughout this journey. I look forward to serving in this role and contributing to a future where more students have access to the resources, connections, and opportunities needed to succeed in medicine and surgery.
