Empowering Women: Celebrating International Women's Month | Nanette Varela

March 1, 2023

By: Angela White

Nanette Varela 

Doctorate of Medicine Candidate 2025

Student Government Association Representative



Q. How did you get into your healthcare field/What made you interested in it?

A. As I grew up, I saw my mom enjoying her career as a Registered nurse. Being a single mom, at the time she would take me to work at times and I grew up being surrounded by the healthcare field. When I was in high school, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine, and decided as a first-generation college graduate in my family I wanted to do more, and be a part of something more magnificent, hence I chose to go into the Doctor of Medicine route. 

Q. What has been your biggest challenge to overcome?

I think for me the biggest challenge to overcome was taking the step to move to another country to go to medical school. I was born & raised in Miami, FL, and had been doing my undergraduate degree at Florida International university. I never left home and doing so to follow my dream was hard. Especially leaving my family and moving alone was a big obstacle to overcome. 

Q. Do you have any women mentors or women who have been an inspiration in your life? 

A. For me my greatest inspirations in my life are my grandmother and my mom. They have struggled so hard to give our family a better chance at life. They sacrificed their home in Cuba to become U.S. immigrants and give their future family better opportunities. As I grew up, I saw what a great women should be and how to become an independent woman by following their dreams and what they believe is right. They taught me how to be a great leader and stand up for what I believe and respect /appreciate others. 

Q. How has being a woman impacted your career OR what does being a women in healthcare mean to you?

A. I think as a medical student, we are in an era where women are being more appreciated and not disvalued as before. For me, being a woman thus far has not diminished my opportunities to success than my peers. It shows women have a level of perseverance that we uphold ourselves. 

Q. What advice would you give to other women who want to go into your field?

A. For any woman that wants to follow a career in healthcare, especially being a doctor, I would advise them to follow what you think is right for you. Do not let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. Be a great leader, be a great learner, and be receptive to constructive criticism as this can help you grow as an individual and a professional. Follow your dreams because if you work hard for what you want, You can make it happen