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Today, we meet and celebrate:
Dr. Maria Villegas
Name and Last name:
Maria Villegas
Hometown:
Lyford, TX
What school did you graduate from, and what degree did you graduate with?
Baylor University, BS in Biology, minor in Chemistry; UT Health San Antonio School of Medicine, MD degree.
What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
Medicine is a calling, and the need to give back to society drew me to a medical career.
What do you enjoy most about working at the UTRGV School of Medicine and UT Health RGV?
Being part of the education journey of our medical students and residents.
How has the landscape for women in medicine changed since you started your career?
The percentage of women in medicine is rising. Women have greatly influenced medicine and have broken barriers in a male-dominated field. Their path has exemplified personal determination and a changing society that now recognizes the vital role of women in medicine.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in medicine?
Find a female mentor who can help you grow and explore opportunities. Take risks in your career development, believe in yourself, and don't doubt your capabilities.
What unique strengths do you think women bring to the medical profession?
Women are more likely to prioritize well-being, bring compassion to the field, and promote diversity. They also tend to be more resilient.
Can you expand on a challenge you faced in your career as a woman in medicine and how you overcame it?
I fell victim to Imposter syndrome, doubting my intellect and skills compared to male colleagues and feeling underserved. I overcame it by surrounding myself with inspiring women leaders and reading books such as "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg. These books encouraged women to change the conversation from what we can't do to what we can do and to "lean in" and "sit at the table."
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