Juliana Roman

Why continuing an education is so important to her:

"Education is a privilege one should not take for granted. I was privileged to be the first in my family to attend a university and to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Sciences, with a minor in Chicana/o and Latina/o Studies. However, while receiving a degree is a significant achievement, it does not signal the end of learning, but rather the beginning of continued growth. I was raised by immigrant grandparents and a single mother, all of whom made countless sacrifices and worked long hours to provide me with the opportunities that have allowed me to be where I am today. My family members did not have the opportunity to pursue higher education; they have always emphasized the luxury of attending school to ultimately gain job security and become financially independent. 

As a postgraduate student, I still look for ways to challenge myself and hold myself accountable for learning something new as a way to continue promoting self-growth. To do so, I will continue my education by pursuing a master's program in Healthcare Systems and Engineering to improve healthcare systems in ways that center equity and access. As an aspiring healthcare professional, I understand that many marginalized communities continue to face barriers to adequate care due to language differences, financial limitations, and systemic inequities. I want to create a culturally responsive, patient-centered system while advocating for clearer health education and stronger community outreach. I not only want to treat patients but also empower them with knowledge and support that strengthens their long-term wellbeing. 

During my internship at Center for Maternal Fetal Medicine, I worked directly with patients and witnessed firsthand the challenges that can arise from miscommunication between healthcare providers and patients. One experience that stood out occurred when I assisted a physician by translating for a Spanish-speaking patient. Although the patient appeared hesitant to speak openly about her health concerns, I was able to build trust and create a space where she felt comfortable expressing herself. Through this interaction, I advocated for her needs and helped ensure she received the support and care she required. Many of the health issues affecting Hispanic communities today, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, lack of insurance, and language barriers, can often be prevented or managed with the right education and resources. I want to be someone who helps patients better understand their health, nutrition, and available healthcare options so they can make informed decisions and improve their overall well-being. 

I have always believed that knowledge is one of the most valuable things a person can have because it can never be taken away so it is important to spread the right information to others to be well informed. I am drawn to medicine because it will allow me to continuously expand my knowledge while making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. Seeing minorities struggle to access healthy food, quality education, and healthcare resources motivates me to pursue a career in healthcare. I not only want to treat patients but also to focus on prevention and education so that individuals and families can break unhealthy cycles and build healthier futures for themselves and future generations."

Juliana proudly supports:

Tenshin-Kai Tai Chi & Karate

El Espejo Mentoring Program

Juliana, describe something that is plaguing young women today and explain what can be done to turn it around? What can you do to help?  

“One issue that is currently plaguing young women today is the lack of representation of women of color in healthcare. Although women make up a large portion of the healthcare workforce, women of color, particularly Latinas, remain significantly underrepresented in higher-level and visible medical roles. For example, only a small percentage of U.S. physicians and physician assistants identify as Latina, and representation in many other healthcare professions remains limited. This lack of representation can reduce the number of role models for young women aspiring to enter the field, which may ultimately affect confidence, sense of belonging, and long-term career persistence. The consequences of this disparity extend beyond professional development. Representation in healthcare is essential for building trust between patients and providers. When patients share cultural, linguistic, or lived experiences with their healthcare providers, communication and understanding often improve, leading to better health outcomes. Without sufficient representation, there is a risk of miscommunication, reduced trust, and barriers to care that disproportionately affect underserved communities. 

To help address this issue of representation, it is important to expand mentorship opportunities, increase access to professional development resources for underrepresented students, and create supportive communities that encourage young women of color to pursue careers in healthcare. Representation begins with visibility, but it is sustained through mentorship, education, and access to opportunity. In response to this need, I started a campus organization called Leones for Community Medicine (LCM). The club was created to support pre-health Latinx students and to encourage active engagement in community service and clinical exposure, particularly in underprivileged areas. Our mission is to provide a platform where students can share resources, opportunities, and knowledge while building confidence as future healthcare professionals in a field where they are often underrepresented. Through LCM, I hope to help create a supportive environment where young women of color feel seen, valued, and capable of succeeding in healthcare. By fostering community, mentorship, and education, I aim to help increase representation and empower the next generation of diverse healthcare leaders..”