Why FSU?

It was a no-brainer after I completed my BS at Florida State University. I knew the mission of the College of Medicine aligned with my goals to serve underserved and minority patients, and I felt that the faculty and culture at Florida State would support my growth. FSU was already home, and this factor was very important to me when deciding where to spend the next four years of training.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

I decided as an undergraduate that I wanted to combine my love for science and anatomy with my passion for serving others. Becoming a doctor was a dream initially, but it later became a calling when I realized the need for diversity in the field. I knew getting my MD will give me the knowledge and training to provide patient-centered and high-quality healthcare, especially to underserved individuals or minorities. As a Latina, I knew that my journey itself would pave the way for others, but providing mentorship and guidance from my own experience would be even more impactful.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

Aside from being a medical student who is dedicated to learning medical knowledge and practicing in the clinical setting, I focus a lot of my time on providing mentorship for others. My experience as a Latina in medicine played a huge role in my journey, and being able to share the resources and skills that worked for me has been meaningful. I enjoy documenting and sharing my journey to make the process easier for others. I truly believe investing in the next generation will be what propels healthcare in the right direction. Diversifying the medical field will allow us to deliver more patient-centered and culturally competent care patients deserve.

Career aspirations

The craft, commitment, and privilege of becoming a general surgeon is one I admire most and a calling I eagerly accept. I will prioritize being a lifelong learner who finds hope in the most challenging cases. As Dr. Natalia Correa, I am committed to utilizing every case as an opportunity to learn, explore the specialty, and serve those in my community.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Consider whether additional education, knowledge, training, or degree will get you closer to your end goal. Understand that graduate school is challenging and sometimes daunting but temporary. Sometimes you feel like everyone else is living their life while yours is delayed, but in the end, it is an investment worth making.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am proud to have been invited to my high school eight years later to share my journey and empower others to pursue careers in medicine/surgery.

I also received a number of fellowships and grants:

• American Medical Women’s Association Medical Education Scholarship 2022
• Bert Fish Foundation Scholarship Fund for Daytona Beach Regional Medical Campus 2022
• Allan Michael Jorge, M.D. Endowment Fund Scholarship 2022
• Wake Forest SOM General Surgery Dr. Harvey Allen Diversity Award 2022
• National Multicultural Greek Council Professional Development Scholarship 2022
• Latino Medical Student Association Southeast Hispanic Heritage Month Scholarship 2022
• FSUCOM Chapman Humanities and Arts Medicine Program Fund 2022
• American Association of University Women Selected Professions Fellowship 2022
• International Women in Surgery Career Symposium Student Sponsorship Award 2022
• Association of Women’s Surgeons Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Conference Award 2021
• Nona J. Rawls and H. Taylor Jones Scholarship Endowment Fund 2021
• Collier County Medical Society Foundation Healthcare Scholarship 2021
• FSU College of Medicine Alumni Relations Fund Scholarship 2021
• American Academy for Family Physicians Foundation Leads Scholarship 2021
• JF Medical Test Fund Scholarship 2021
• National Latino Medical Student Association Scholarship 2021
• Regional Latino Medical Student Association Scholarship 2021
• Jackson Properties Premiere Student Housing Community Scholarship 2020
• E.C. & Tillie Allen College of Medicine Scholarship Endowment 2020