Name:Natasha N. Quailes Hometown:San Juan, TX Year in Medical School:MS2 Graduation Class Year:2026
What inspired you to become a doctor?
My desire to help people and my love for science inspired me to become a doctor. I started medical school later in life after having had a career as a food scientist and lecturer. But the common thread in any of my career choices has been the service to people. As a food product developer, I created food products that were not only affordable but healthy and nutritious for the consumer. As a teacher and professor, I served my students' academic needs and aspirations both in and beyond the classroom. Currently, as a medical student, I am a part of the AHEC program and volunteer for our Student Run Clinic, allowing medical students to volunteer medical support to our underserved community.
Why did you choose the UTRGV School of Medicine?
The Valley is my home. I was born and raised in San Juan, Tx, and graduated from PSJA in 2005. My family is here, and their support throughout this journey is invaluable to me and my son, Emeka. Also, as a Valley native, the greatest joy I receive is helping my community through our events because the Valley gave me so much growing up and has supported me to become the person I am today. Thankfully, UTRGV also offered me a scholarship to pay for half my medical school tuition, an outstanding offer that placed this university as my first choice.
The UTRGV School of Medicine is a practicing academic medical institution. What aspect of Academic Medicine impacts you the most? (Educational, clinical, research, etc.)
This year, the educational aspect of academic medicine impacted me the most because of my role in Student Government. I am currently the class president and serve as the student body's voice and support the initiatives of over 20 student organizations. As a former lecturer for a university, I am well prepared to lead our student organizations and honored to be able to represent my classmates, who are passionate and hardworking individuals.
What specialties of medicine or research interest you the most? Why?
I'm interested in pursuing a specialty in dermatology. I am currently a part of Dr. Kim's research lab that focuses on the T-Cell Protein – Tyrosine Phosphatase's role in skin cancer. During her clinic hours, I also shadow Dr. Villegas, the UTRGV School of Medicine and UT Health RGV dermatology advisor. I've had my share of skin issues growing up and throughout my life, so I empathize with patients seeking treatment for their skin conditions, especially people of color. Many medical textbooks lack representation of darker skin for all skin diseases. We need more research and physicians who understand how to assess, diagnose, and relate to patients with melanin, as skin conditions present differently across various ethnicities.
What is one interesting fact others might not know about you?
You have more than likely purchased or consumed a food product I created. I have developed food products for companies like Walmart, HEB, Whataburger, Carl's Jr, Boston Market, PF Chang's, etc. Some of my food products are still sold in stores to this day! I am a person of many interests, and food, agriculture, and nutrition are forever a part of my interests.
