Transitional Year Residency

Rebekah Bernal, D.O.

Where are you from?
Winchester, Southern California.

Why did you choose NW Transitional Year Residency?
I chose Northwest Transitional Year Residency because of the faculty’s enthusiasm and genuine commitment to providing excellent training, which was clear during my interview, and it continues to be a priority here at Northwest. I was also excited to contribute to the growth of a new program!

What are your professional interests within Medicine?
I am drawn to the field of general surgery due to the profound impact surgical intervention can have on patient outcomes and due to my deep respect for the technical skills required to be a surgeon. My interests are particularly piqued by pediatric surgery and endocrine oncology- pediatric surgery because of the opportunity to help guide a young one and their family through a new, sometimes frightening experience; and endocrine oncology because of the fascinating complexity of the endocrine system. I am eager to explore other areas of surgery and medicine to cultivate my expertise and find the niche that resonates with my professional goals.

What are your interests or hobbies outside of Medicine?
Writing, swimming. Occasionally I’ll make papercrafts, like cards for my family or 2-D paper models based on characters from my favorite shows and games.

What are you most excited about for life in Tucson?
I’m most excited about exploring the unique flora and fauna of Tucson. There’s a greater variety of wildlife here in Tucson than I thought possible in a desert setting. I’m also looking forward to a nice tan! 🙂

Favorite way to spend a day off?
On a day off, you may find me in the pool or at a local library, depending on the weather. Once in a while, you may even catch me visiting the Reid Zoo, relaxing with the animals.

Top item on your “Bucket list”?
‘Visit Ireland’ is at the top of the list right now. I hear it’s beautiful. The landscape is always gorgeous in movies.

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