Tiger Heritage Spotlight: Teresa Ayela-Uwangue BS '02
Dr. Teresa Ayela-Uwangue BS '02, M.D., FAAP, FACP ("Dr. T") is a graduate of RIT College of Science Biological Sciences Program. After graduating from RIT, she obtained her medical degree from the SUNY at Buffalo and trained in a competitive double residency program at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Once training was complete, Dr. T moved to Arizona where she has worked in various medical environments, treating a wide range of conditions in children and adults. Teaching is a passion for Dr. T and she is involved in teaching locally with first year medical students., Dr. T opened her own solo private practice clinic, which provides the traditional neighborhood, family doctor experience in a modern way. Dr. T is married to another RIT graduate and has three daughters. Dr. T wears many hats and when not doctoring, she is active in her home and church and enjoys her Peloton, reading, and crochet. Dr. T appreciates her experience at RIT and continues to help others, as often as possible, as someone helped her.
What brought you to RIT?
I came to RIT because it offered me great opportunities. I had limited choices for undergraduate studies, and RIT was the most affordable option for me. I'm thankful that I earned enough in scholarships to cover a significant portion of my college expenses, allowing me to attend an outstanding university.
Who had the greatest influence on you while you were at RIT: your friends? Faculty? or the staff?
Dr. Robert Clark, the former Dean of the College of Science. Despite doing well academically, I was struggling in non-academic areas after my first quarter, and began to feel adrift. I began to mistrust myself and did not know who to confide in about how I felt.
One evening, after a science lab session, I was lost in contemplation about my college journey and debating whether to continue or not. I was approached by Dr. Clark, and he and I engaged in a lengthy conversation about my classes and future aspirations, and I felt had the opportunity to reevaluate my commitment to college and what lay ahead. Only a week later did I discover that Dr. Clark was the Dean at the College of Science.
Dean Clark continued checking on me after our first meeting, showing genuine care. His generosity left an indelible impression on me, and I truly feel that our chance meeting saved me from dropping out of my studies. This experience continues to motivate me to make time for others; recognizing that showing a genuine interest in someone outside of ourselves can make a real difference. As a healthcare provider, taking that extra time with my patients can frequently be the difference between life and death.
What factors or experiences guided you toward your current profession?
Since the age of eight, my aspiration to become a doctor has served as a source of motivation during challenging times in my life, providing me with hope and purpose. I have come to realize that it is not just a talent but also a genuine calling.
What significance does Black History hold for you?
To me, the importance of Black History lies in the remarkable achievements it encompasses and the enduring sacrifices and resilience demonstrated by those who came before and those who continue to endure, enabling me to be who I am today. It serves as a moment for me to acknowledge the valuable contributions of many, and reinforces the idea of extending a helping hand to uplift others.
For students looking to pursue a similar career path, what are some valuable courses or degrees that you would recommend?
My recommendation for aspiring physicians is to choose a course of study that not only meets the prerequisites for medical school admission but also is personally enjoyable. It is perfectly acceptable to pursue a non-science major if you can fulfill the necessary entrance exam and school requirements.
I also suggest considering courses such as anatomy and physiology, getting hands-on experiences like working with cadavers if possible. Also, shadow a physician; this can be quite beneficial.
Seek mentorship; find someone in your desired field and ask if they would be willing to mentor you.
Share an intriguing aspect of your role as a medical professional.
I am a double board-certified physician. After graduating medical school, I did my residency training in two programs: internal medicine and pediatric medicine. I took both board exams, and passed both! With this background, I am able to, quite literally, see patients from birth to the end of life. I can see them in nearly every medical environment and help them in simple or complex medical situations. I can see a newborn infant and the next visit may be a 95-year-old. Every patient I see is individually special and intriguing to me.
Could you share a memorable moment (or moments) from your time at RIT that stands out as a personal favorite?
My encounter above with the (late) Dr. Robert Clark will always stand out in my mind. I am sure it changed my trajectory. In general, everyone I encountered in the College of Science Dean’s office was supportive of me. Dr. Thom Frederick was my advisor and he made sure I had every opportunity possible. Dr. Douthwright was also a tremendous help as well as Dr. Merrill.
What are some surprising or unexpected facts about yourself that you would like to share?
I excel at cooking; but when it comes to baking, I struggle. I burn things. Every year I have to get help in making holiday cut out cookies! In college, I learned the Kreb cycle. I took care of cells in tissue culture lab class at RIT! A baker, I am not. One of my goals this year is to bake something successfully once a month. Wish me luck!