Why FSU?

I chose FSU College of Medicine mainly because of the excellence of Dr. Jose Pinto’s work in the cardiac muscle field. He is a well-funded and renowned scientist who is associated with the Department of Biomedical Sciences, which contains a highly qualified team of scientists and state-of-the-art technology that made FSU the perfect choice. FSU is an innovative university with excellence in teaching and a commitment to professional education. I believed that FSU would strengthen my academic skills and help me down my professional journey. As it turns out, I was not wrong.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

My passion for science and my dream of becoming an independent researcher were the main reasons why I pursued a graduate degree. I wanted to expand my knowledge even further, learn about the old and new techniques present in the cardiovascular field, as well as develop new ideas that could contribute to the world’s knowledge on that topic and potentially save lives. My hope is that one day I will be able to share all of my experience with future generations in a classroom setting. The academic area attracts me because of the infinite directions and possibilities that my projects can take and all the paths that I can follow.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

My research uses scientific tools and animal models with mutations in their hearts to study in detail how the heart gets sick and how to help it become healthy again. My work will help us learn more about how the heart functions in both healthy and diseased states. It can also lay the groundwork for discovering new ways to treat heart diseases. New treatments could potentially help reduce costs of hospitalization, given the high rate of readmission for those suffering from heart diseases.

Career aspirations

My ultimate career goal is becoming an independent researcher and tenured professor in a top US institution. Though I do want to continue research, I want to ensure that I have time dedicated to teaching in a classroom setting.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Try to set boundaries, know your limits, and respect those limits. It is okay if sometimes you have to work crazy hours, but only if it is for a short period. Make sure to give yourself proper rest after a stressful week. Do not be afraid to say NO sometimes. And most importantly, put your mental health before anything and anyone else.

Accomplishments during graduate career

• Outstanding Senior Graduate Student, FSU
• Outstanding Junior Graduate Student, FSU
• Outstanding Leadership Award, FSU
• 16 publications during graduate school