Luis Zuniga, DO, a 2023 Burrell College graduate and recipient of the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award, will soon begin a gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center after completing his internal medicine residency.
Medicine was a natural path for Zuniga, whose family has a background in healthcare. His time as a chemistry peer leader at the University of Texas at El Paso also reinforced his desire to teach, lead and care for others.
“I view it as the best job in the world,” Zuniga said. “I love the idea of a daily challenge with no two days the same, and I enjoy leading a team.”
As a Burrell College student, Zuniga found that the rigorous curriculum helped prepare him for the challenges of residency. He also credits the support of classmates and faculty for helping him succeed.
“The first two didactic years are challenging, but thanks to the professors and my friend group, I was well prepared for all of my boards, both in medical school and in residency,” he said.
Zuniga said one of the most influential people during his time at Burrell College was Dr. Muneer Assi, DO, Associate Dean of Clinical Education, who served as a mentor throughout his medical education.
“He fundamentally altered my life in such a positive way that I will forever be grateful to him,” Zuniga said. “He acted as a mentor, a friend, a sounding board, a clinical educator and everything else in between.”
As he prepares for the next stage of his training, Zuniga hopes current Burrell College students remember to stay focused while also taking time to enjoy the journey.
“Don’t take your foot off the gas, but have some fun throughout this process,” he said. “Surround yourself with great friends in medicine who you can lean on when times get tough.”
