MANUEL VALLEJO, MD, DMD
Designated Institutional Official, Associate Dean, Professor of Medical Education, Anesthesiology, Obstetrics & Gynecology at West Virginia University
"Keep 'knocking at the door and it will open eventually'. You can create your opportunity, it may take some time being 'different', but it can and will occur for you." - Manuel Vallejo
Q: What led you towards this career path?
A: Growing up, I was always interested in science as a subject and my father was a good role model as a physician.
Q: Why did you decide to become a healthcare worker?
A: I wanted a career where I could personally help people get better.
Q: Why did you decide to go into medicine?
A: I wanted to help and cure patients so that they could become well. This was and is fascinating and very fulfilling to me.
Q: What is your most memorable experience from your professional career?
A: As an obstetric anesthesiologist, nothing is more fulfilling to me than helping an expectant mother deliver her baby. It is an honor and a privilege.
Q: How would you describe yourself in three words?
A: Caring, honest, and friendly.
Q: What are some of your hobbies/interests?
A: I am a 6th degree black belt, like playing guitar, and spending time with my family.
Q: What are your professional goals?
A: To be the "best I can be" professionally.
Q: What are your personal goals?
A: To be the "best I can be" personally. We all have individual talents, and it is important to excel in those talents that are unique to you.
Q: What advice would you give students/students of color who aspire to work in the healthcare field?
A: Keep "knocking at the door and it will open eventually." You can create your opportunity, it may take some time being "different," but it can and will occur for you.
Q: What do you think can be done in order to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in health care?
A: DEI needs to be systemic in an institution and needs to occur at all levels (school, department, division, person).
Q: Why is it important to have POC in healthcare of different backgrounds?
A: It is well known that diversity in healthcare leads to better healthcare for everyone.
Q: Who inspired you as a young child?
A: I had many role models growing up and continue to have people who I would like to model. It is important to find a role model who inspires you to grow and succeed.
Q: What motivates you in your current career?
A: Everyday, I strive to make a positive mark in what I do and whom I interact.
Q: What is your favorite thing about West Virginia?
A: The biggest resource of West Virginia is its people. I love the uniqueness of West Virginia.
Q: Where are you from?
A: I am from the surrounding area. I grew up in Wheeling and went to high school in Washington, PA.