Creating Smiles, Improving Lives

Yaritza Garcia

The University of Texas at Austin

Major: Health and Society

I was interested in Austin Smiles because its mission to provide no-cost cleft care directly addresses the healthcare inequities I have seen throughout my life. Growing up in a border town, I witnessed firsthand how systemic barriers shape healthcare availability and patient experiences, which motivated me to pursue medicine with a focus on advocacy and equity. As a sophomore in university, I value opportunities that go beyond clinical exposure and highlight the behind-the-scenes work that makes care possible. The experiences shared by former interns, like patient outreach, organizing medical supplies, supporting community programs, and contributing to nonprofit operations, closely align with the skills I hope to strengthen through a place like Austin Smiles. I cannot wait for what is to come with this opportunity!