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Pre-Health Alumni Network

Are you ready to reignite your connection with FIU? Your alma mater is calling on you to join us in shaping the future of leaders in healthcare. Whether you graduated last year or years ago, your experiences and expertise are invaluable assets that can inspire and empower the next generation of Pre-Health students.

Here's why you should get involved:

  1. Reconnect with old friends and mentors: Rekindle old friendships and reminisce about your university days. Our alumni network is a vibrant community where you can connect with fellow graduates, share stories, and foster meaningful relationships.
  2. Give back: Pay it forward by giving back to the institution that helped shape who you are today. Whether through donations, mentorship programs, or volunteering opportunities, your contributions can make a real difference in the lives of current students and the university as a whole.
  3. Professional development: Take advantage of networking events and workshops designed specifically for alumni. Expand your professional network, gain new skills, and stay updated on industry trends while supporting your alma mater's mission of lifelong learning.
  4. Impact the future: As an alum, you have a unique perspective and insights that can help shape the future direction of your university. Whether by serving on advisory boards, participating in focus groups, or providing feedback on strategic initiatives, your voice matters in shaping the next chapter of our institution's legacy.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy at your alma mater. Join us today and be a part of something bigger!

JOIN US!

Alumni Spotlights

Our FIU Pre-Health Alumni Spotlights highlight the many accomplishments of our FIU graduates who make a difference every day and serve as leaders in healthcare. 

Discover the inspiring stories of our pre-health alumni, their medical careers, and fuel your drive with their helpful advice!

Note to our FIU Pre-Health Alumni:  We would be honored to share your story to inspire current students, please visit this link if you’re interested in being featured: https://go.fiu.edu/OPHAAlumni 

 

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Dr. Monica Reyes

Medical school attended: 

FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Why did you choose to pursue a career in healthcare and the medical field? 

There are always so many ways to help others. However, as I went through the motions and different disciplines to see where I would fit best, I realized my skills and passions were better geared for the healthcare system. As a Hispanic woman, I knew my love for the science and medicine could be channeled into being a physician while helping our community.

What advice would you give current or prospective pre-medical students? 

Medicine is not a career for everyone, and it is not meant to be. Be mindful of the decisions you make early on and only pursue this career if you do not see yourself doing anything else. There is a lot of sacrifice, hours, and difficult moments throughout a medical career and if it was not because I love what I do, I would probably be in a difficult spot now.

What has been the biggest challenge so far in your journey to becoming a healthcare professional?  

Thinking back, there were a lot of hurdles along the way, but if I had to mention one, I would say was the uncertainty. Despite many hours studying, volunteering, learning, there is never a time where you are 100% sure of where you will end up. From applying to college to then medical school and then applying to residency there is always a component of fate. As someone who likes to plan everything and have as much control as possible, the wait and uncertainty was really hard to deal with.

What has been the most rewarding thing you have learned as a medical student or practicing physician?

 To know my limitations and know it is okay to ask for help. Every step of the way the responsibilities continue to grow and become different. To understand where my expertise begins and where it ends, is truly a skill.

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Dr. Katerina Bello

Medical school attended: 

FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine

Why did you choose to pursue a career in healthcare and the medical field? 

I’ve always loved science and teaching, and medicine felt like the perfect way to combine both passions. As a physician, in addition to diagnosing and treating, you also have to privilege of educating, empowering, and guiding patients through their health journeys which is one of my favorite aspects of the profession.

What advice would you give current or prospective pre-medical students? 

Stay humble and remember that medicine is a lifelong journey of learning. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, admit what you don’t know, and seek out opportunities to grow. Curiosity and an eagerness to learn will take you further than perfection ever will!

What has been the biggest challenge so far in your journey to becoming a healthcare professional? 

 I think my biggest challenge so far has been navigating this journey as a first-generation medical student. The pride that comes with being the first physician in your family is truly unmatched! However, it certainly comes with its challenges. I often compared myself to peers who had guidance from family, loved ones, or connections in the field and at times I felt like I was at a disadvantage because of this. This is why I relied heavily on the FIU Office of Pre-Health Advising as a pre-medical student and was proactive about seeking out mentors while in medical school!

What has been the most rewarding thing you have learned as a medical student or practicing physician? 

The most rewarding thing I’ve learned is the power of simply being present for patients during their most vulnerable moments. Whether it’s delivering a new diagnosis or just listening to their concerns, I’ve seen how much comfort and trust that presence can build. It’s taught me that compassion and human connection are just as important as medical knowledge. That lesson has shaped the kind of physician I hope to be every day!