Hometowns: Moa, Cuba; Brandon, MB
Program: Island Medical Program
Residency: Internal Medicine in Victoria
What attracted you to your field?
I have always been drawn to complexity, unanswered questions and the thrill of putting pieces together. Internal medicine offers all of that, but what truly captivates me is the heart of the work — the privilege of building meaningful connections, supporting patients during their most vulnerable moments and relentlessly pursuing the answers they need. I am continually inspired by the depth and diversity of this field and by the opportunity to listen, investigate and advocate all at once. In internal medicine, I found not just an intellectual challenge but a place where I can bring my whole self to the art of care.
What is your favourite moment from your time at UBC?
The past four years have been nothing short of amazing. From post-exam sushi at Willows Beach and class trips to Tofino, to late nights at the Royal Jubilee Hospital student lounge, delirious 4 a.m. call laughs and our Island Medical Program (IMP) graduation — I’ll always look back on these memories with a full heart. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have built a supportive community of brilliant colleagues, inspiring mentors and lifelong friends. And of course, none of it would have been possible without the dedicated professors, preceptors and staff who guided us along the way. The IMP truly felt like home.
What is one piece of advice you have for students entering your program?
Stay grounded in who you are. The quirks, interests and passions that brought you here are your strengths. Do the things that keep your spark alive. Be gentle with yourself. Growth sometimes means just showing up. Lean on your classmates, ask for help and never underestimate the power of snacks and naps. Celebrate the small wins. Medicine is hard, but it’s also full of heart. Protect your curiosity, nurture your joy and keep your heart in your work. You’re not just becoming a doctor, you’re becoming someone people turn to and trust in their hardest moments. You belong here, just as you are.
What’s next for you?
After graduation, my best friend and I are heading off on a long-awaited European friend-cation. I plan to crochet to my heart’s content, chase beach days along B.C.’s beautiful coast, and soak in the slower moments of joy before starting my internal medicine residency in Victoria. I feel incredibly lucky to continue serving the community that welcomed me four years ago, and to keep learning alongside the mentors and peers who helped shape my path. It feels like a full-circle moment, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.
What are you looking forward to most about the program you’ve matched to and the community you’ll be joining as a future resident?
I am over the moon to be staying in Victoria for my internal medicine residency, surrounded by the incredible mentors, residents, staff and classmates who supported me every step of the way. I look forward to continuing to grow alongside this community, deepening my connection to the patients I am privileged to serve and continuing to explore the beautiful island I now call home. There is something truly special about staying in the place that taught you to become a doctor. I’m excited to give back to the people and places that helped shape me into who I am today.