Meet Laura Onuchic, MD, from São Paulo, Brazil. She attended University of São Paulo School of Medicine, and is a PGY-1 in the Traditional Internal Medicine Residency Program’s Physician Scientist Training Program (PSTP).
What led you to pursue a career in medicine?
For as long as I can remember, medicine was more than a profession; it was a way of life. I was born into a Brazilian family in São Paulo, however, the United States was home for seven years during my early childhood, as both my parents were MDs pursuing further specialization abroad. Their devotion to their careers and their family was a powerful and inspiring combination. I was fascinated by their scientific discoveries and by their unmeasured efforts in caring for their patients. At a very young age, the hospital and laboratory environments were no strangers to me and felt like a second home.
What are your goals after you complete internal medicine residency? Where do you see yourself?
After completing my internal medicine residency, I plan on staying at Yale! I am part of the Physician Scientist Training Program (PSTP), which involves “short tracking” into my specialty of interest–nephrology. This 6-year pathway provides robust clinical and research training for those seeking a career in academic medicine and I am excited to pursue this journey in such a supportive and collaborative environment!
Why did you choose Yale Internal Medicine for your internal medicine residency?
Having spent most of my life in São Paulo, the world’s fourth largest city, I found it quite captivating that one of the world’s best and most influential universities could exist in a small “cozy” area by the coast. More importantly, when I initially moved here for research, I quickly learned that the “small-town feel” also translated to interpersonal relationships at Yale: we live in a close-knit community where people rely on each other to grow and become better professionals. The support is incredible!
Describe your experience at Yale Internal Medicine in 3 words.
Community, empathy, dedication.
What is your fondest memory at Yale thus far?
Our Intern Welcome Dinner! It was so humbling and inspiring to learn more about the history of Yale Internal Medicine! It was also a wonderful opportunity to learn more about my co-interns and the unique life story each one carries.
Who has had the greatest influence on you, and why?
I’d say my whole family, as it’s hard to choose a single person. I met my husband during Nephrology training back in Brazil, my sister and father are nephrologists, and my mother and brother are also in internal medicine. I think we all influence each other’s careers.
If you could say anything to your younger self, what would you say?
Don't worry so much about having it all figured out! Continue to take risks and to work hard on what inspires you, and the answers will come naturally.
What's a fun fact about you?
I was a great swimmer (sprinter) back in the day! My 50 meter freestyle and backstroke times qualified for nationals.
What is one piece of advice you'd give someone who is applying for internal medicine residency?
The culture of the program and the people matter more than you can imagine! Choose wisely!
The Department of Internal Medicine at Yale is among the nation's premier departments, bringing together an elite cadre of clinicians, investigators and educators