Class of 2027
Delaney Aguilar, DO
Medical School
Western University of Health Sciences
Hometown
Pollock Pines, CA
Hobbies/Family
Music performance (piano and guitar), kayaking, hiking, rock climbing
Nathania Baptiste, MD
Medical School
St George University
Hometown
St Petersburg, FL
Why Kaweah Health?
I felt very welcomed by the EM program at Kaweah and was very impressed with the clinical experience they had to offer.
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
I love the fast paced constantly changing environment of the ER . The amazing things you get to see and having the opportunity to help patients feel better in their worst moments.
Hobbies/Family
I really enjoy singing , Latin dancing and playing soccer.
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Never give up , keep working and striving to improve . Enjoy the process of learning .
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
My parents were a big inspiration and support throughout my journey in Medicine. My mom was a nurse so I had an example growing up of serving others through healthcare. When I decided I wanted to be a physician they were there every step of the way cheering.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
Ask all of the questions you have. Advocate for yourself.
Justine Barrett, DO
Medical School
Western University of Health Sciences
Hometown
Pinon Hills, CA
Why Kaweah Health?
I was really impressed by the friendly and supportive atmosphere of the program, as well as the diverse patient population, volume, and the sense of family among the staff. It just felt like the perfect fit for me! I knew that by choosing this program, I would get the support and experience I need to become a top-notch emergency medicine physician.
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
While on rotations, I loved the pace and unpredictability of the emergency department. I wanted a hands-on specialty with variety and found it in the ED, where I felt at home and part of a tight-knit team.
Hobbies/Family
Hiking with my pup Mack, Skiing & Snowboarding, Line Dancing, Off-roading, Hanging at the river with friends and family
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Give it your all and go for it! Do not be afraid to ask for resources along the way and know that not everyone's path towards becoming a doctor looks the same.
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
My primary care physician was someone whose kindness and knowledge I admired growing up. They served as an incredible mentor to me and had a significant influence on my journey toward becoming a physician. Witnessing the health struggles of those in my community, including poor health literacy and lack of access to care, only reinforced my decision to pursue this path.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
You are a valuable part of your care team. Do not be afraid to ask for help or clarification. We care about your health and want to see you thrive!
Toni Davis, DO
Medical School
Western University of Health Sciences - COMP
Hometown
Fontana, CA
Why Kaweah Health?
While considering residencies, I had three things at the top of my list: a strong sense of community, engagement with underserved areas (both inside and outside of the hospital), and robust DEI implemented into the program – I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Kaweah superseded my expectations in all aspects! Plus, the incredible residents, faculty, and staff all being genuinely kind and committed to my growth and learning was an added bonus!
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
It’s the first specialty that truly felt like home. It’s the continual and active application of medical knowledge, the spectrum of procedures and diagnoses seen, all while simultaneously giving me a chance to care for a variety of people and forms of disease.
Hobbies/Family
Live music/concerts, writing and poetry, crafts and drawing, does brunch count as a hobby?
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Don't be afraid of taking your time. In the grand scheme of things, a gap year here, some time off there, or pushing something back won't hurt you — you’ll still reach your goals! (and if someone hasn't told you today, "You got this!")
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
When times were tough my beloved family, my dear friends, and of course my community were major sources of support
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
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Questions, clarification, and things along those lines are always appropriate! Don’t hesitate to ask. Also, any step taken towards health maintenance is a step in the right direction, take pride in that first step and let’s continue the journey. |
Andrea Farias Gonzalez, DO
Medical School
Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences
Hometown
San Marcos, CA and Monterrey, Mexico
Why Kaweah Health?
I chose Kaweah Health because I wanted to train at a high-volume, relatively unopposed, community hospital close to home and Kaweah Health checked those boxes for me. Kaweah Health stood out to me during the interview season because I saw genuine passion for teaching and commitment to the community from faculty and residents. Additionally, the program exudes good vibes and I truly felt that this is a place where I would excel and get excellent training.
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
I enjoyed many different aspects of each of my medical school rotations but when it came time to pick, I struggled because I didn't connect with one particular field. It wasn't until my first shift in the ER that I fell in love because emergency medicine truly incorporated all of the elements I loved from my previous rotations, making it the perfect fit for me. I love working with an awesome team of providers, seeing everyone including kids and pregnant patients, doing lots of procedures, and practicing a wide breadth of medicine.
Hobbies/Family
I enjoy cooking, hiking, cycling, and spending time with friends, family, and my dog, Kya.
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Find a niche within medicine that you are genuinely passionate about and continue to evolve it, it makes you a more genuine student and physician plus it makes the journey even more rewarding.
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
I became a physician because I recognized a need for Latino physicians to compassionately serve our community and apply that same compassion and understanding to other diverse populations.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
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Never underestimate the importance of a follow-up appointment, especially after a visit to the emergency room. |
Brendan Finnell, MD
Medical School
Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
Laura Gutierrez-Rivera, DO
Medical School
California Health Sciences University College of Medicine (CHSU-COM)
Hometown
Tulare, CA
Why Kaweah Health?
I was born at Kaweah and I was fortunate enough to scribe at Kaweah during my undergrad years before medical school. I love this population; it's my home. Kaweah is a diamond in the rough for training, and it was an easy decision to choose Kaweah when I decided to pursue Emergency Medicine.
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
I chose Emergency Medicine because it is the only specialty where you get the honor and privilege to treat people from all backgrounds irrespective of their insurance, gender identity, nationality, immigration status, or political view. I also love working with my hands and there are plenty of opportunities to perform procedures in the ER.
Hobbies/Family
I'm obsessed with flowers and will literally stop whatever I am doing to take a picture
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
You can do anything you put your mind to, and that includes becoming a doctor. Being a doctor is extremely rewarding, and it's worth all the struggles. Keep a solid support system and enjoy the ride!
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
As a child, I often found myself serving as an interpreter for doctors appointments, and I slowly realized there were very few, if any, Hispanic/Latino physicians. Once I discovered my passion for anatomy and physiology, it made sense to pursue medicine to not only serve my population, but to also increase representation in the field.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
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You only get one body and one life. Make a conscious effort to be physically active, eat a balanced diet, and take time each day to do whatever makes you happy. Health is wealth, but so is self-care. |
Dominique Harris, MD
Medical School
Meharry Medical College
Hometown
Los Angeles, CA
Why Kaweah Health?
I felt immediately welcomed during my interview. My journey thus far has taught me that going where you are valued and supported is the most important factor above all.
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
I have a keen appreciation for acute stabilization and a fast-paced environment. Emergency Medicine provides a balance of medical management and procedures, while also giving me the opportunity to care for individuals in their critical time of need.
Hobbies/Family
I enjoy car modification and cycling. My goal is to begin restoring a classic muscle car in the very near future.
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Identify your drive for wanting to become a doctor. If this drive is genuine, then prepare yourself for hard work and difficult decisions in and out of the hospital. Proceed toward your dreams as if there is no other option.
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
I find the human body to be absolutely fascinating. The thought of studying its intricacies and learning to combat illness was a dream that I have held since I was a very young child.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
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Please do not be afraid to ask questions. If you do not understand the answer, or need further clarification, we are here to help advise your medical treatment. |
Maryam Khan, DO
Medical School
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown
Pleasanton, California
Why Kaweah Health?
I felt a sense of community and support during the interview process with the faculty and residents. I knew residency is going to be tough wherever I end up, so I wanted to be in a program that values building strong networks while in residency and beyond.
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
Emergency Medicine is everything I imagined I would be doing as a physician. The acute pathology, the procedures, the shift work and even a fair bit of psych. I can't see myself doing anything else!
Hobbies/Family
I have many hobbies and I especially enjoy taking on long term projects with each one: training for an ultramarathon, perfecting my cat drawing skills to illustrate and print my own stickers and short story writing, traveling to surf different waves or snowboard different mountains, currently hiking and lifting to climb Mt. Whitney.
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Make sure you want to do this and take your time to decide. Every step of the way is difficult and your internal drive is a key factor to success.
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
The wide variety of injustice and inequalities in the world that I witnessed and experienced drove me to quit my 9-5 cubicle job and pursue a skillset where I can provide a direct service that has an immediate impact.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
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Be an active participant in your health and take preventative health seriously. |
Jacqualine Ng, DO
Medical School
New York Institute of Technology COM
Hometown
Brooklyn, New York
Why Kaweah Health?
The residents and faculty are so passionate about this program and this population!
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
I love the unpredictability of working in the Emergency Department, and that it represents a safe space for anyone who comes through our doors.
Hobbies/Family
Reading, visiting museums
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Stay humble, friendly, and remember why you are doing this.
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
My grandmother encouraged to keep on learning, and a lot of my personality has been shaped by her influence.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
Never feel scared to advocate for yourself! You are the expert of your own body and lifestyle.
Karrin Rutledge, MD
Medical School
University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Hometown
San Antonio, TX
Why Kaweah Health?
The patient population and supportive, friendly faculty members
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
I enjoy high-acuity healthcare settings, not knowing what each day will bring, and being able to help people during difficult situations.
Hobbies/Family
I'm a self-taught painter and multi-media artist. I love lying out in the sun on my hammock with a good book and watching true crime documentaries. I'm also an animal lover and pittie enthusiast.
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Take it one day at a time. It's easy to get overwhelmed, but focus on laying one brick down at a time. There are plenty of other people willing to count you out, so just make sure you aren't one of them!
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
I wanted to be a physician since I was a kid, and my dad was always my biggest supporter. I just love the art of medicine.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
Don't ignore your symptoms. If not for yourself, then for your loved ones. Let us take care of you! We really want to help.
Andrea Torres Perez, DO
Medical School
California Health Sciences University
Hometown
Oakland, CA
Why Kaweah Health?
After finishing medical school in the Central Valley, I wanted to continue to serve the patient population of the Valley, and Kaweah, with its solid EM residency program, sealed the deal for me.
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
Emergency Medicine is the only place in medicine where you can see anyone, regardless of social status, immigration status, or medical insurance. Coming from an underrepresented minority in medicine, I wanted to serve my community as an ER doctor and be the jack of all trades. Not only that, EM fits with my personality.
Hobbies/Family
I like to stay active and be outdoors! I love going on runs, hikes, and long walks on nearby trails. I also love to dance to cumbia, salsa, and merengue! And I adore my family time.
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Keep an eye on the prize. Anyone can become a doctor with consistency and hard work!
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
My family and friends have been my support system all along!
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
Eat healthy and stay active!
Jacqueline Yeager, DO
Medical School
University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown
Mountain Top, PA
Why Kaweah Health?
A great group of welcoming people. With the high acuity and plentiful procedures at Kaweah, I felt like this program produces competent attending physicians who can work anywhere. Also super excited to move to California and explore all its natural beauty!
Why did you choose Emergency Medicine?
The variety, the acuity, getting to be on the front lines of medicine. Emergency medicine is the only specialty in which I've felt that sense of "Oh, this why I went to medical school." Also, it might come in handy on an airplane someday.
Hobbies/Family
Backpacking, hiking, travel, restaurants, live music, and I have a worrying number of rescue cats.
What advice do you have for a student who would like to become a physician one day?
Find an activity or place that gives you perspective on what's actually important in life, and go there now and then. With the constant pressure of applications, tests, and just the everyday grind, it's easy to stress over stuff that doesn't matter that much in the grand scheme of things.
Who influenced/supported you to become a physician and why; or why did you choose to become a physician?
I've had many wonderful mentors over the years who encouraged me on my very nontraditional journey to emergency medicine. Years ago, while working as a massage therapist, I became interested in learning more about the body and health. I went back to school part time to complete the basic science courses, and the rest is history.
What is the most important advice you have for patients?
Don't trust medical advice from social media.
