Student Spotlight: Ylia Chuffe

After a challenging four-year undergraduate journey, I am proud to have honed my skills and gained expertise in the areas of science, humanities, and the arts. My college education has provided me with the opportunity to expand my knowledge in not only biochemistry, but Spanish and music which has resulted in minors in both subjects. With my fluency in Spanish, I have taken a comprehensive approach to making a positive impact in my community serving as a Spanish medical interpreter at Clínica Amistad through the FACES Conversantes program in partnership with the UA medical school, working under the mentorship of Dr. Alejandra Zapien Hidalgo. 

As an interpreter, I have played a crucial role in reducing healthcare disparities in the Tucson community, particularly for the underserved, undocumented and uninsured population.
In addition to my medical interpreting work, I have also made a significant contribution to student success through my involvement in the UA Think Tank program as a Supplemental Instruction Leader for Organic Chemistry (CHEM 241B). With my acquired knowledge, expert guidance, and support, students have been able to overcome the challenges posed by historically difficult courses in order to achieve academic success. 

My commitment to healthcare extends beyond my work as a medical interpreter. I have actively sought out further clinical experience through the Casa Alitas Program, which serves migrant families who have been forced to leave their homelands due to political reasons, escaping poverty and/or violence. 

I have also worked as a clinical medical scribe at Banner University Medicine, gaining experience in various medical specialties such as Pediatrics, Family Medicine, Lung Transplant, Hematology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, and Gastroenterology. 

In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I am also deeply invested in the arts as a talented violinist. I have developed my musical abilities through my minor in music, studying under Professor Roth, and have taken the opportunity to showcase my skills as an active participant in the musical community on campus. I have had the privilege of performing with esteemed organizations such as the Arizona Symphony Orchestra, Mariachi Arizona, and as a member of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra. 

As I approach graduation, I have set my sights on participating in the UA-OEDI Summer Internship, which will provide me with hands-on research experience, an enhanced understanding of public-health disparities in the U.S.-Mexico Border Region, and valuable preparation for graduate school. I graduate in May alongside the class of 2023 with the ultimate goal of applying to medical school and continuing to make a positive impact in the healthcare community within Tucson.