Resident Profiles

Medical School: Texas Tech University Health Science Center El Paso Foster School of Medicine 

Hometown: Garland, TX 

Career Goals:  I want to do a fellowship, but I do not know what exactly yet. I would just like to work in the hospital. 

One person I would like to meet and why: Gregor Johann Mendel, because genetics is a cool subject!

Something you would never guess about me is: I perform excellent concerts in my car on the way to work. 

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso: I went to school here and really liked the population and the program! Everyone is so friendly and nice and the parents really take great care of their children. 

Medical School: Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV

Hometown: Las Vegas

Career Goals: Pediatric Rheumatology

One person I would like to meet and why: My soon-to-be-born daughter because of course!

Something you would never guess about me is:   I like to play pickle ball.

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso:  I wanted to develop my Medical Spanish while serving an undeserved community. In addition, I like the cold, and my wife likes the heat, so we compromised and went somewhere without any cold and plenty of heat. 

Medical School: University of Nottingham Medical School

Hometown: Houston, Texas

Career Goals: Pediatric Palliative Medicine

One person I would like to meet and why: Itzhak Perlman - the most renowned violinist alive today, he contracted polio at the age of 4 and has used forearm crutches and braces since. Perlman is a great advocate for disability rights.

Something you would never guess about me is: I really enjoy sports including hiking, swimming and Para fencing. 

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso: I was drawn to Texas Tech because of the unique community serve in the Border region. We see a wide range of pathologies and the families of our children could not be more appreciative of the help we give them.

Medical School: American University of Antigua COM

Hometown: Glenn Dale, Maryland

Career Goals: Not entirely sure of my future goals.  But I'm sure I want to serve both nationally and internationally

One person I would like to meet and why: Chris Brown, I've been a fan since childhood 

Something you would never guess about me is:  I'm an Ambivert

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso:   During my interview, the residents and faculty were very kind and transparent.  I was also pleased to hear that they could voice their concerns about the program and implement changes.

Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts

Hometown: Toa Alta, Puerto Rico

Career Goals:  My main goal is to become the best Pediatrician I can be. I want to have a meaningful and positive impact on the little ones I get to care for.

One person I would like to meet and why: Princess Diana because she was unapologetically herself, used her power for good and stood up for what she believed in. 

Something you would never guess about me is: I love sports. I used to swim in high school and love running long distances for fun. I look forward to running a marathon one day.  

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso: I visited El Paso back in 2015 and loved it. I knew I wanted to come back to stay. When I was in medical school, I would look at the Match results and dreamed of becoming the next one from my school to match in this hospital. I married an ARMY soldier who was also interested in establishing in El Paso and from there on, I knew that I wanted nothing more than to be able work at Texas Tech Health El Paso and have a home here. When I got the opportunity, my biggest dream came true.

Medical School:

Universidad Nacional de la Amazonia Peruana.

Fellowship: Pediatric Colorectal Surgery at the University of Colorado.

Fellowship: Pediatric Urology at University of Miami. 

Hometown: Iquitos, Peru

Career Goals:  I would like to become a world exponent in managing patients with spinal bifida. 

One person I would like to meet and why: Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, I really admire him because at the time he was alive, most people thought that disease was a punishment from the gods, but Hippocrates taught that all types of sickness occurred naturally. He created the first intellectual medical school, which earned him the title of the “Father of Medicine”, and it was largely because of him that medicine moved in a much clearer and more scientific direction. He upholds high standards of care, both professional and ethical. In the Hippocrates’ oath, we swear to prescribe only helpful and beneficial treatments, in keeping with our own ability, knowledge and judgement, to abstain from causing harm and to live a commendable professional and personal life. The ideas that are described in his Hippocratic Oath, although written many years ago, are still relevant and appropriate to the 21st century.

Something you would never guess about me is: I am very easy-going, even in under pressure time.

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso: The pediatric residency at TTUHSC is an academic program, with a program director very well motivated to excel our best side from each resident. The EPCH where we perform most of our rotations is a well-implemented hospital located in a safe area in El Paso downtown. The city is quiet, safe, and cozy; being located close to the border, lets us face challenging pediatric cases that need urgent care.  

Medical School: Texas Tech Health El Paso Foster School of Medicine

Hometown: Orange County, CA

Career Goals:  I want to be a general pediatrician for the El Paso community.

One person I would like to meet and why: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson because his work ethic, drive and discipline are out of this world.

Something you would never guess about me is: I love to lift weights, and deadlifting is my favorite exercise.  

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso: The people in El Paso are very friendly, and it is where I met the love of my life.

Medical School: St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine

Hometown: Laredo, Texas

Career Goals:   As a general pediatrician, I would want to focus on nutrition and preventive medicine. I truly believe introducing healthy habits to children early on can be positive in their long-term health.

One person I would like to meet and why: Steve Jobs. His passion and work ethic built an idea that started in a garage into one the most successful companies of all time. Steve’s empathy for the consumer experience rather than a profit is something I would want to incorporate into my practice.  

Something you would never guess about me is: I am a huge Star Wars fan! When I was small I memorized every line for Episode 1 and I don’t regret it

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso:   I am from a border city like El Paso. I wanted to be trained in a place that can teach me how to give the best care to a population that is greatly under served. TTUHSC El Paso has been doing an amazing job taking care of the children of El Paso and I never second-guessed where I wanted to be trained.

Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine Barbados, West Indies 

Hometown: Dallas, Texas

Career Goals:  Although I am just starting my career in pediatrics, I have grown interested in inpatient services, whether it may be critical care or emergency medicine. However, I am starting this journey with an open mind and will see where that takes me!

One person I would like to meet and why: My great paternal grandmother. She was a local midwife back in Guatemala that the whole town admired and respected. She was known to have a strong personality and be fearless. I believe it is important for any young woman to have such a strong matriarchy figure in their life that may guide them to success.

Something you would never guess about me is: I can be Rosario Dawson’s twin.

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso: There were so many factors that took place in my decision. First, I loved the idea of working in a place that has been able to adapt to two different cultural aspects of medicine. Growing up, I became accustomed to home remedies for minor medical problems, and I knew I wanted to incorporate that into the way I wanted to practice medicine. Secondly, I wanted to come to an area that was medically underserved and hopefully make a small difference in that community.  I felt that Texas Tech Health El Paso offered that and so much more. During my interview day, I truly feel welcomed and cherished. I knew that day that I had found the place where I was going to be able to accomplish my career goals.

Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine 

Hometown: Panama City, Florida

Career Goals:  Nephrology, hospitalist medicine.

One person I would like to meet and why: Kool-Aid Man.

Something you would never guess about me is:  Huge Marvel Fan. 

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso:  I used to previously work with refugees prior to becoming a physician and being able to draw on those experiences inspired me to work again with refugees and with people along the border 

Medical School: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock

Hometown: San Angelo, Texas

Career Goals:  Pediatric Allergy/Immunology

One person I would like to meet and why: Dolly Parton! Not only is she a fantastic musician, but she also has a long history of humanitarian work.

Something you would never guess about me is:  I played the trumpet for 12 years. I played jazz, classical, and even some mariachi. 

Why you chose TTUHSC-El Paso:  The people! The familial dynamic between residents and the friendliness of everyone I met made me confident I would be happy spending three years here. The 300-plus sunshine days a year did not hurt either!

Medical School:  University of Jordan

Hometown:  Houston, Texas

Career Goals: My career path is not set in stone. One thing I have learned is to stay flexible with opportunities, so my goal is to be a confident pediatrician with high professional and moral standards.

One person I would like to meet and why: Nelson Mandela. He left the world a better place than how he found it.

Something you would never guess about me is:  I like to cook, and my favorite restaurant is my kitchen. 

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: Here it is an intimate program where there is a lot of camaraderie and unique experiences. These experiences will help me evolve into a confident pediatrician who can make quality decisions for my patients and challenge me to be the best physician I can be.

Medical School:  Tecnológico de Monterrey Escuela de Medicina Ignacio A. Santos

Hometown:  San Salvador, El Salvador

Career Goals:  To become an excellent general pediatrician and potentially pursue a fellowship.
 
One person I would like to meet and why: Jimmy Butler. Even after being abandoned by both of his parents at 13, he never let anything deter him from pursuing his goal of becoming an NBA player. His story continues to inspire me to set the bar high and follow my dreams.
 
Something you would never guess about me is: I love to explore new trails on my mountain bike.
 
Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: The faculty, staff and residents are very passionate about the work they are doing. They have a unique community serving advocacy and border health program. In addition to their strong teaching curriculum and diverse patient population. El Paso is considered one of the safest cities in the U.S., which was important to consider for my family.

Medical School: Kansas City University

Hometown: El Paso, Texas

Career Goals: Wherever my career takes me. I hope to become a physician who my patients can trust and confide in, and build lasting and meaningful patient-doctor and professional relationships. I want to be the kind of professional whose patients are comfortable calling at 3 a.m. with a question or approaching me in public to say hi.

One person I would like to meet and why: If I had my time machine working, I would probably visit Benjamin Franklin. He was probably the closest thing to the “most interesting man in the world” we will ever see. 

Something you would never guess about me is: I have had the extreme fortune and privilege to have traveled all over the world. There are still many places to check off the list!

Why you choose Texas Tech Health El Paso: I do not think anything could have given me a greater sense of purpose than to have the honor to help the people who shape this amazing community we have in El Paso. It does not hurt that the program here is filled with such friendly and caring people. 

Medical School:  Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown:  Emory, Texas

Career Goals:  I am leaning toward general pediatrics, but I am keeping an open mind about fellowship. One fellowship I am considering is child abuse pediatrics. I really enjoy advocating for my patients, and I feel this will be an important aspect of my practice no matter where my pediatric career takes me

One person I would like to meet and why:  If I could meet anyone, I would probably choose Dr. Jennifer Arnold. Watching her in the hit TLC show The Little Couple was one of the first influences that led me to pursue medical school and pediatrics as my specialty. As I am entering into my career, I would love the opportunity to sit down with one of my childhood heroes and listen to the advice and wisdom she has to share.

Something you would never guess about me is:  When I was a teenager, I was obsessed with the idea of living alone on a houseboat. I never fulfilled that dream, but I am planning to settle for a houseboat vacation rental at least once in my lifetime!

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso:  I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso for a few reasons! First, everyone was exceptionally kind and welcoming during my interview day and the residents genuinely seemed happy. Even through my limited interactions, I felt like I could really envision myself as part of the Texas Tech Health El Paso family. Secondly, I am excited to live in a city that is heavily influenced by Mexican culture. I am half Mexican American, half White, so I am excited to learn more about my heritage and improve my Spanish.  Lastly, the new parent elective was a unique added bonus for my husband and me to consider when ranking programs. 

Medical School: Paul L. Foster School of Medicine

Hometown: El Paso, Texas

Career Goals: I fell in love with hospitalist medicine when I rotated, but am also open to general pediatrics. Ultimately, what I am most interested in is helping my community, and becoming a physician in my community that is in need.

One person I’d like to meet and why: J.R.R. Tolkien. He is my favorite author and had such an interesting mind. His philosophies and life experiences are something I would like to hear about first hand. Listening to one of his recorded lectures was a treat. I can only imagine what it would be like to speak with him in person!

Something you’d never guess about me is: I was in musical theater for the better part of my adolescence. I loved performing, especially because it helped me overcome my stage fright and lisp.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: El Paso is my hometown, and the people of the city are my people. I love this city and the community and want to be a part of it in a meaningful way.

Medical School:  Centro de Estudios Universitarios Xochicalco
 
Hometown: Tijuana Baja California
 
Career Goals:  Start working in general pediatrics. However, pediatric intensive care unit and pulmonology has called my attention.
 
One person I would like to meet and why:  Elizabeth Eckford, for her bravery against her peers to defend equality and her beliefs.
 
Something you would never guess about me is:  My favorite music genre is metal rock, and my favorite Disney movie is Mulan. 

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso:  Coming from a city with a high level of migration, we were always limited in the management of many patients during my training. Sometimes patients had the opportunity to be transferred to the U.S. for multidisciplinary management and necessary interventions that my city could not offer. I chose this program since I will have the opportunity to follow up with many patients who arrive in this country to have the best care possible, and I will see the outcome of them.

Medical School:  Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown:  El Paso, Texas

Career Goals:  At this moment, I aspire to sub-specialize as a pediatric nephrologist focusing on transplant and the transition from childhood to adult care. I also hope to improve my Spanish and become fluent in American Sign Language. 

One person I would like to meet and why:  Although it is not possible, my organ donor who in her dying allowed me to live through a kidney transplant. I am incredibly grateful to her and want to thank her for her decision to donate her organs. I also want to find out what kind of person she was to help keep her memory alive. 

Something you would never guess about me is: I love rock and pop-punk music! 
In addition, I have three kidneys (my two original, plus my kidney transplant)!

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: There are so many reasons why I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: 

The program is in the city where I was born and raised and am lucky to call home. It has given me so much, and I am so excited to give back by helping treat the Paso del Norte region.
It is a unique program on the U.S.-Mexico border, which emphasizes border health.
From day one, the faculty, staff, and now my co-interns and fellow residents have all been so kind and welcoming, making me feel right at home. 

Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch

Hometown: Mesquite, Texas 

Career Goals: General pediatrics or hospitalist.  

One person I would like to meet and why:   I would love to meet Zendaya because she is such an incredible actress and also seems to be such a fun person to be around!

Something you would never guess about me is:   I am a big foodie and love to eat and explore different types of restaurants! 

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso:  I thought that everyone during interview day was super positive and welcoming and created a comforting environment from the residents to the attendings. I also was super interested in helping all the types of patients we are privileged to treat in El Paso, especially the underserved. I felt that doing my residency in El Paso would be very fulfilling and rewarding, and after interview day, I had such a positive feeling. And I was right! Everyone here has been super supportive and kind, and I am excited for my next three years! 

Medical School: Texas Tech Health El Paso – Foster School of Medicine
 
Hometown: El Paso, Texas 
 
Career Goals: My career goals are to stay in El Paso as a general pediatrician. I am also considering a focus in sports medicine or neonatology. Also, open to wherever the future takes me.
 
One person I would like to meet and why: George Lucas because he created some of my favorite film series, Star Wars and Indiana Jones.
 
Something you would never guess about me is: One thing you would never guess about me is that I ran cross-country and track in college.
 
Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because this is my hometown and community, and I want to continue serving. The program is wonderful, and all the people involved are friendly and encouraging with the goal of helping you be an excellent pediatrician. 

Medical School: Paul L. Foster School of Medicine

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas

Career Goals: Decide during intern year if I want to do a fellowship or not.  

One person I would like to meet and why:  It would be cool to meet Malala Yousafzai for coffee or tea in London and tell her how much of an inspiration she is to my family and me.

Something you would never guess about me is:  My hobbies are skin care and makeup.  

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso:  My family and I love El Paso!  I really enjoyed my pediatric clerkship experience during my last two years of medical school.  All of the faculty and residents were enthusiastic and effective teachers, so I knew as a resident it would be in the perfect learning and training environment for me. 

Medical School: Kist Medical College

Hometown: Kathmandu, Nepal

Career Goals: To be a well-rounded pediatrician.

One person I would like to meet and why: I would be honored to meet Cristiano Ronaldo, as I greatly admire his work ethic, including his hard work, discipline, and dedication. It would be an invaluable experience to learn from him personally and gain insight into how he embodies these qualities.

Something you would never guess about me is:I have a deep appreciation for exploring snow-covered mountains. There's something truly invigorating about the serene beauty and the challenge of navigating such landscapes.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso because I want to become a well-rounded, efficient, and multi-skilled pediatrician. The diversity of the patient population and the range of pathologies that Texas Tech Health El Paso offers make it an ideal place for me to achieve these goals.

Medical School: University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical School

Hometown: Houston, Texas

Career Goals: At this moment, I’m interested in pursuing allergy and immunology but am definitely open to all possibilities. Just simply trying to survive the next three years is the goal for now. 

One person I would like to meet and why: I would personally want to meet Princess Diana to find out all the chisme over afternoon tea. 

Something you would never guess about me is: Something you would never guess about me is I have an almost 300-day streak on DuoLingo trying to learn Spanish. 

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: Honestly, I chose this program for the good vibes it brought during the interviews. Everyone was so nice and accommodating, and it really felt like a good fit for me. 

Hometown: Kashmore, Pakistan

Career Goals: I aim to become a skilled pediatrician who can provide excellent care to children and their families. I am particularly interested in pursuing a fellowship in pediatric cardiology.

One person I would like to meet and why: I would love to meet my late grandmother. Her dream was to see me succeed in the U.S. as a pediatrician, and I would cherish the opportunity to share my achievements with her.

Something you would never guess about me is:   I am an avid cricket player and have had the honor of team player for the El Paso Cricket Club in several local tournaments.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because of its strong emphasis on community health and the unique opportunities to work with a diverse patient population. The supportive environment and the camaraderie among residents and faculty make it an ideal place for my medical training.

Medical School: Morehouse School of Medicine

Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya

Career Goals:

Currently general pediatrics, but I am keeping my options open.

One person I would like to meet and why: One person I would like to meet would be St. Francis of Assisi. Learning about his life and the compassion he showed toward animals and underprivileged people embodies the essence of humanity, something we should all strive to emulate. 

Something you would never guess about me is: Something you might not know about me is I really enjoy DIY projects, like putting furniture together and fixing appliances. 

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because during my interview, I felt a strong sense of camaraderie from both the residents and faculty. There was a clear dedication to supporting residents' individual professional and personal goals, which assured me that I would be in capable hands here. Additionally, the unique border health curriculum drew me to the program. Coming from a medically underserved country and solidifying my interest in working with underserved populations at Morehouse, I knew that Texas Tech Health El Paso was the next best trajectory for my career goals.

Medical School: Government Medical College, Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Hometown: Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Career Goals: My goal is simple: to take care of all the people who come to me when they are in utmost need of a doctor.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: The residents were clearly proud of this program, and they were genuinely happy.

Medical School: Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University India

Hometown: Passaic, New Jersey

Career Goals: To become a successful pediatric cardiologist and to set up a free primary care clinic in a rural area in India.

One person I would like to meet and why: I would like to meet MS Dhoni. He is one of the greatest cricketers in the world, but fame has not changed his character. He is a very humble and down-to-earth person.

Something you would never guess about me is: I represented my college tennis team during medical school.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because I love the city of El Paso. The program is great and the people are very friendly. I also have family here in El Paso. 

Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts

Hometown: Florida, Puerto Rico

Career Goals: Acquire a solid foundation in general pediatrics while exploring various pediatric sub-specialties. Ultimately, my goal as a pediatric resident is to emerge as a well-rounded physician prepared to provide exceptional care to children and adolescents, whether in primary care or specialized settings, and to contribute meaningfully to advancing pediatric medicine through clinical practice, research, and education.

One person I would like to meet and why: I would like to meet Keanu Reeves. Aside of being a fan of his movies, I found his personal story very inspiring.

Something you would never guess about me is: I have a deep passion for horse riding and have dedicated time to training in riding techniques and horse care.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: I felt a sense of belonging and comfort during the interview process with the program. Also, Texas Tech Health El Paso provides a solid foundation for training, and offers diverse clinical experiences, including exposure to a wide range of patient demographics and medical conditions.

Medical School: Universidad Latina de Costa RicaHometown
Havana, Cuba

Career Goals: During my time as a medical student, I developed a strong interest in gastroenterology, and I am looking forward to pursuing it in the future.

One person I would like to meet and why: I would love to meet Jordan Peterson. I admire his work and as a clinical psychologist; he provides valuable understanding of human behavior and mental health. His discussions on existential philosophy, personal responsibility, and self-improvement are inspiring and thought-provoking.

Something you would never guess about me is: I love mountains! They really do offer a special kind of connection to nature.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: They really do offer a special kind of connection to nature. My interview day was absolutely amazing! I was greeted with so much enthusiasm and kindness from everyone I met. I honestly felt like I was already part of the team. I remember them saying how incredibly nice people are here, and I can definitely vouch for that. El Paso is truly made special by its wonderful people -- they make all the difference.

Medical School: Universidad del Salvador- Buenos Aires, Argentina

Hometown: Valencia, Venezuela

Career Goals: I want to be an amazing pediatrician who can help and support my patients.

One person I would like to meet and why: I would love to meet Sarah J. Mass; she is one of my favorite authors. Her books always made me feel many beautiful feelings, so I would love to have coffee with her.

Something you would never guess about me is: I love to dance! I love Latin music and dancing to Latin music is one of the most fun things!

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso:I selected Texas Tech Health El Paso because of my origins as a Hispanic and an immigrant. I really loved the mix of culture and the proximity to immigrants that this program has to offer. For me, it is a full circle to be an immigrant and now being able to provide care to immigrants.  

Medical School: International American University College of Medicine, Saint Lucia

Hometown: Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Career Goals: With choices like child psychiatry and cardiology, the decision is a tough one. However, at the moment, my primary focus is on training and refining my skills as a competent physician.

One person I would like to meet and why: Alan Watts, a great philosopher, an inspiration and the one who paved my journey to Zen, Buddhist and Tao philosophy. He ignited my passion about philosophy of mind. One of his famous quotes from his book, Wisdom of Insecurity, is: “You do not play a sonata in order to reach the final chord, and if the meanings of things were simply in ends, composers would write nothing but finales.”

Something you would never guess about me is: I used to play rugby as inside and outside center. What a thrilling sport!

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso: Calgary is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and El Paso, marking the southern edge of the Rockies in Texas, feels like an extension of home to me. With the warm, hospitable people and the incredibly accommodating program, El Paso was an easy choice.

Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine

Hometown: Cap-Haïtien, Haïti

Career Goals: I find the brain to be both complex and fascinating, so a fellowship in neurology is a possibility.

Something you would never guess about me is: I love to write poetry, and I am a huge Marvel fan.

Why you chose Texas Tech Health El Paso:I had a wonderful interview experience; the familiarity among the residents was both refreshing and reassuring. The opportunity to serve communities across the border appealed to my passion for global medicine.