Kaitlyn Dianne Ybanez

Medical Student Spotlight

Name: Kaitlyn Dianne Ybáñez
Hometown: Edinburg, TX
Year in medical school: MS1
Graduation class year: 2028

What inspired you to become a doctor?

“God will place you wherever you will serve Him best.” That was always what my mom said to me, and I never would have believed it to be more fitting for my experience at UTRGV and my own journey to becoming a physician.

When my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008, it marked the beginning of a battle my mom physically fought and one we emotionally endured. With the hair loss, frequent road trips to MD Anderson, draining side effects of chemotherapy, BRCA1/BRCA2 genetic testing, mastectomy reconstruction surgery, remission in 2009, re-diagnosis in 2017, and my mom valiantly fighting since, I remember how easy it was to be consumed in despondency yet how readily I became to view the world, in all its entropy, through faith. I realized then that the most valuable support I could give my mom was being by her side, uplifting her spirits, providing daily doses of optimism, replenishing the soul with strength, and curing such humanistic needs by becoming a figure of hope. I made it my purpose to be content no matter the circumstance, for I was just blessed to have my mom in my life another day.

These moments, when all that seemed to be in control was our demeanor, have helped me realize the power and strength that resides in having hope, even if life does not heed it at first glance. It has impacted my perspective of the world, for it has encouraged me to seek the positivity that emits from every person and the obstacles that are bound to occur in life. I am confident in my will of wanting to be a doctor because I understand how it feels to be on the receiving end of struggle and how far gentleness and positivity can recharge us to continue fighting. I believe that through emotional maturity, I will continue to grow, and by recognizing the importance of having a reliant presence for others, I will be able to connect deeply with patients in the face of the fear of the unknown.

Why did you choose the UTRGV School of Medicine?

As part of the first cohort of the Vaqueros MD Early Assurance Program, I knew as a senior in high school that UTRGV was my next destination. I have been able to explore my passions more deeply by contributing to a field I craved answers for through cancer research, and I have developed an enhanced sense of purpose in being involved in local opportunities/outreaches. The mission the UTRGV School of Medicine holds is one I also share: providing and improving medical care to our community. I am beyond excited to serve a place I call home.

The UTRGV School of Medicine is a practicing academic medical institution. What aspect of Academic Medicine impacts you the most? (Educational, clinical, research, etc.)

Academic medicine is an ever-learning approach, as it is more responsive to the needs of the community. It provides opportunities to personalize health care for the patient, encourages collaboration with others, and promotes medical advancements.

The educational aspect of academic medicine currently impacts me the most because it is important to continually adapt our learning to keep abreast of discoveries and evolve with the demands of our society. The advantages of academic medicine will allow for more innovative problem-solving regarding procedures and treatment methods that I will carry on during my medical career. This environment will continue encouraging me to act upon underserved areas within the RGV and stimulate new approaches to today’s illnesses.

What specialties of medicine or research interest you the most? Why?

The specialties of medicine that I am currently most interested in are Plastic Surgery and Orthopedic Surgery. I believe these specialties provide a unique element of healing that works directly on restoring function creatively. Not only do I have a strong fascination with the musculoskeletal system, but I also find that the reconstructive opportunities in the field (ranging from cosmetic procedures to trauma recovery) can allow me to help my patients feel their best, which is highly fulfilling.

As physicians, we have one of the greatest responsibilities in providing guidance and healing to improve one’s quality of life. I cherish the chance to interact with people at various points in life, even in their most vulnerable states, and I believe that we can make a lasting impact on a person through this special relationship. In the midst of worry, fear of the unknown, and distress patients may hold on to, physicians and surgeons alike must also treat these emotional comorbidities by instilling faith that surpasses adversity and providing support to ease underlying despair. I admire and look forward to the selfless, compassionate, and comforting connections a career in medicine extends.

What is one interesting fact others might not know about you?

I have many interests, but I really enjoy cooking and country dancing. I recently started an Instagram account (@Kaitlyns.Kitchenn) where I document my recipes and always look for new meals!