I am a physician (Dr. Veronica Maria Pimentel, MD, MS, FACOG). I am double-board certified in Maternal-Fetal Medicine (from Albert Einstein College of Medicine) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (from Boston University Medical Center). During my MFM fellowship, I focused on clinical and global health research. I spent a summer in Rwanda conducting research and assisting with resident education. Before attending the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, I obtained a Master’s of Science from Purdue University. I completed both high school and undergraduate in the U.S.
I am a practicing high-risk obstetrician (MFM) and Assistant Professor of ObGyn. I also conduct women’s health research and advocacy.
I grew up near the local hospital and was always fascinated by medicine and science. I wanted to make the world a better place by finding solutions to common problems and help people live healthier lives.
My biggest challenges I faced were overcoming pre-conceived notions of what people from my background are supposed to be or do and having the finance necessary to achieve my goals.
My background helped have the determination, strong work ethic and hope needed to dream big and keep going. I was fortunate to be raised by a mother who was a bright, caring and independent businesswoman. She was my best role model. She supported my educational goals and encouraged my spirit of curiosity and independence. She encouraged me to become the best I could be and thought instituted in me a sense of pride, responsibility and purpose.
We need to get to know those who are making difference in their fields, have strong representation in all levels and be our best advocates. As much as possible, we need to collaborate with and mentor each other.
Don’t let fear hold you back. Invest in yourself. Seek alternative options to accomplish your goals. Take advantage of small and big opportunities. Find inspirational role models.
Besides research and mentorship, I am writing on a book about pregnancy that is based on my own personal experience as an expecting mother and an obstetrician. I’m telling compelling stories that also provide the readers with significant knowledge about pregnancy issues.
Do you identify as an African in STEM? If so, please send us some basic information to see if we can profile you on the VSA page.
Hello World
I think it’s about time you heard my story.