Sofia Fernandez heads to medical school
Sofia Fernandez, who grew up in Richfield, Wisconsin, is graduating this spring with a master’s of science in bacteriology. In this Q&A, she talks about why she chose to pursue a graduate degree in bacteriology, her role in research and as a teaching assistant, and the impact of her study abroad experience. She plans to attend medical school in the fall and pursue an MD/MPH.
Why did you choose your major? What was the most interesting or the coolest thing you learned?
In undergraduate, I was preparing to apply for medical school, which drove me to a scientific catered degree. I chose microbiology because I loved the nuances behind disease, and I wanted to learn how bacteria take advantage of the body’s microenvironment. This also led me to a graduate degree in bacteriology in which I could dive deeper into clinical infectious disease and public health. I also wanted to get a more holistic look at health and wellbeing across cultures and environments, which propelled me to an undergraduate major in global health. Combining these two, I did research with Dr. Valerie Stull and Lori Brown to better understand how traditionally fermented foods in rural areas, such as Zambia, can be leveraged to promote female entrepreneurship and improved gut health. It’s incredibly interesting to see how we can combine culture, women empowerment, and microbial environments to bolster human health and wellbeing.
What student organizations, groups, and other activities were you involved in?
As an undergraduate, I was involved in the Filipinx American Student Organization (FASO), the Resource Navigator program (helping patients of the Madison area find social resources to help with employment, housing, etc.), CALS Ambassadors, research in the Ahmad Dermatology Lab, and worked at the Discovery Building as an Outreach Intern (helping coordinate community events that bring science to Madison communities). As a graduate student, I am a Teaching Assistant for Introductory Microbiology Lab, did some literature research on traditional fermented foods in rural settings, and also worked as a Radiation Oncology Clinic Assistant at UW Health.
What are your future academic and/or career plans, short-term and long-term?
In exciting news, I’ll be starting Medical School this fall! While I am still deciding on which institution to attend, I will likely be attending Tulane School of Medicine and completing an MD/MPH.
What were the most valuable and/or meaningful experiences you had in CALS?
While all my experiences in CALS were formative, I was extremely impacted by my study abroad in Ecuador. We got hands-on experience with traditional medicine, speaking with members of the Quechua community and learning how they use medicinal plants to treat common medical conditions. It was amazing seeing the concepts I learned in my Global Health classes, such as the triple burden of disease in a Middle-Income Country, in action.
When you think about your time here as a student, what are you proud of?
Every time I tell people I am (or soon to be, was) a CALS student, I am proud to tell them about the academic rigor/prestige and numerous research opportunities that are available through CALS. In addition to the scholarly achievement, I am so proud of CALS for emphasizing the humanity behind science, specifically through the global health major. By highlighting how different cultures and societies around the world are affected by climate change and policy, we were constantly reminded that all our health profiles are inherently connected to each other. Rather than shying away from the complexity of health, CALS takes pride in leaning into the tough concepts in order to better prepare its students for the real world.
Do you have any advice you’d like to share with CALS students?
CALS has so many world-class resources, like research, study abroad opportunities, internships, and scholarships. Use as many as you can, because post-grad life may not have the support that CALS affords.
What do you like most about being a CALS student?
I believe that the people make the experience, which is why I loved CALS so much. All my faculty, fellow students, and advisors were invested in my success, and made me a better student and a better person.
If you had to eat one Babcock ice cream flavor for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
I was partial to BecKEY Lime pie when it was available. But I also love Mocha Macchiato! It combines my need for coffee with my love for caramel, and brings a smile to my face every time I think about it.
What’s your favorite thing about the city of Madison?
I absolutely love Madison’s city-like atmosphere set within a nature centered setting. As someone who is infinitely happier when I can see the blooming flowers while going on a sunset run but loves the entertainment opportunities of a big city, Madison is the perfect combination of both. I wouldn’t trade my time in Madison for anything.