SDCMS Foundation Scholarship Winner Embodies Spirit of Service

Ruben Carmona, first-year medical student at UC San Diego, believes "whatever you can do to help people, you should do it." And despite a heavy class schedule, he walks this talk. Whether volunteering across the Mexico border with medical teams, caring for his disabled brother, transporting patients, or offering a shoulder of support to terminal cancer patients, Carmona gives his all. Promoting education among minorities and motivating youths in his community are also very important to Carmona.

His actions, combined with a deep belief in volunteer medical service, are what recently earned him the 2009 SDCMS Foundation Medical Student Scholarship of $1,000 per year for up to four years. The medical student scholarship has been helping future physicians since 2007.

After he graduates from the UCSD School of Medicine in 2013, Carmona plans to give back throughout his medical career because, as he states, "I am deeply committed to giving back in a way that honors all who have helped me find my way." He cited "hope and comfort" as two primary things he will offer his future patients, as he has witnessed the positive difference they make.

Ellen Beck, MD, chair of the Student Scholarship Committee, says "The selection committee was very impressed with the quality and depth of the applicants. Several finalists, including Ruben, have overcome obstacles, served the community with depth and commitment, and have dreams of service to the underserved."

Carmona is an inspiration and great role model for local youth interested in medicine. He is proof that with love in your heart, a desire to succeed, and a solid education, you can realize your dream of being a doctor.

Grateful for the scholarship assistance, Carmona says, "I'll be an advocate [of the Foundation] for the rest of my career."

You can read Ruben Carmona's full essay on the SDCMS Foundation website at SDCMSF.org.