Emilia Chapa, M.D.

What this award means: It is so meaningful to be recognized by such inspiring faculty. Through my family medicine mentors, I have witnessed how to advocate for patients while staying at the forefront of prevention and supporting the community. This is something I will carry with me moving forward.

Mentor comment: Emilia stands out as an outstanding medical student and individual. Her commitment to addressing healthcare disparities is evident in her consistent engagement with marginalized populations. Her volunteer work highlights her dedication to patient care. She has repeatedly demonstrated her ability to motivate peers, advocate for systemic change, and contribute to the education of others. – Audra Clark, M.D., Assistant Professor of Surgery and Trauma and Acute Care Surgery Clerkship Director

Background and family: I am Mexican American, born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. My family story reflects both Texas roots and the immigrant experience. On one side, I am a seventh-generation Texan, and on the other, a second-generation American. My paternal grandmother immigrated from Mexico and raised her children with only a second-grade education. Her resilience and unwavering commitment to her children’s education have been a profound inspiration on my path to medicine. My parents and my maternal grandmother, who have long been active in our community, further shaped my dedication to service.

College: I attended the University of Denver, graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in biology and psychology and a minor in chemistry.

What led to your career path: My family has been one of the greatest influences on my career, particularly in family medicine. I am inspired by the specialty’s focus on prevention, advocacy, and the privilege of caring for patients through every stage of life. Growing up, I witnessed how access to care could vary greatly depending on someone’s circumstances, and those experiences motivated me to pursue medicine as a way to support and advocate for the communities I care about.

UTSW activities: I am active in student leadership, community service, and mentorship. I serve as a Fashena College Senator and Colleges Advisory Committee member, helping represent student voices and plan events. I have also volunteered as a hotline advocate with the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center and, during pre-clerkship years, with the Student-Run Free Clinic and Patient Accompaniment Initiative at Parkland Memorial Hospital. I have also participated in mentorship programs such as the Health Professions Recruitment and Exposure Program (HPREP) and Southwestern Student Acclimation Liaison (SWAL) Pal program and served one year as a liaison for the Health and Human Rights Enrichment elective.

What words describe your UTSW experience: UTSW provided opportunity and growth.

One tip for medical school success: Do not be afraid to ask for help!

Favorite way to relieve stress: Cooking, walks, and yoga are my go-to ways to de-stress.

Surprising fact: I love concerts and went to well over 30 while in medical school!

Future plans: After completing my residency at Scripps Mercy Hospital in Chula Vista, California, I plan to pursue a career involving full-spectrum, community-centered family medicine through which I can care for patients across the lifespan, including prenatal care. I aim to develop strong procedural skills to provide as much care as possible in the clinic and reduce unnecessary referrals. I hope to work in an underserved setting and build trust and relationships with the community.

About the award: Named after the Chair of Family and Community Medicine at UT Southwestern from 1984 to 1993, the Ross Award includes a $1,000 scholarship from the Dallas Chapter of the Texas Academy of Family Physicians Foundation.