School of Health Professions Peer Advocates

Shaina Cormier

Prosthetics and Orthotics Hello everyone! My name is Shaina, and I am a second year Prosthetics and Orthotics student. I am originally from Minnesota and moved down here to Dallas for school. I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry at the U of MN. Prior to being in grad school, I worked as a paramedic for 6 years. Outside of school, I enjoy being in the gym and doing any type of exercise, discovering new recipes to cook, and enjoying the outdoors. As someone who moved away from family and familiarity to a brand new place for school, I know what it’s like to feel isolated, or worried, or just need someone to talk to that has been through a similar experience. As a Peer Advocate, I’m here for you through all of it, so feel free to reach out!

Yosanley Cornelio

Clinical Research My name is Yosanly Cornelio. I am from the Dominican Republic and currently a Ph.D. student in Clinical Research at UT Southwestern. After graduating from medical school, I began working at the General Directorate of Epidemiology in my country, conducting research on infectious diseases. During this time, I obtained certifications in field epidemiology and clinical research from prominent institutions in the United States. With God's blessing, I moved to Boston to pursue a master's degree in Clinical Research. It was during this period that I discovered my passion for mental health research, which I am now pursuing in my Ph.D. at UTSW. This path allows me to combine my love for clinical practice and research, offering the best of both worlds. Moving to the United States has been a significant challenge, but I have received substantial psychological support and encouragement from my family and friends. I enjoy outdoor sports, hiking, walking in nature, and taking photos and videos. I love spending time with my family and friends, traveling, and experiencing different cultures and their cuisines. I also adore being the favorite aunt to my nephews and nieces. Additionally, I find joy in listening to people and helping them build solutions to their difficult situations. As a peer advocate, I am here to support you and listen to your concerns. Please feel free to reach out!

Portrait of Vivian Duong young woman with long dark hair wearing dark green shirt and glasses

Vivian Duong

Genetic Counseling My name is Vivian, and I am a second year genetic counseling student. Originally from Dallas, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience from the University of Texas at Dallas. During this time, I worked as a bilingual medical assistant for a family medicine practice, where I learned the significance of family medical history on genetics and healthcare. I continued my higher education at the University of Pittsburgh, where I received a Master of Public Health in Human Genetics and a Graduate Certificate in Health Equity. For my practicum, I completed a health equity internship with the E.WE Foundation, a rare disease advocacy organization for Trisomy 18. In my free time, I enjoy singing, dancing, and painting. Please feel free to reach out to me for peer support!

Emily Ortiz

Prosthetics and Orthotics My name is Emily Ortiz. I am originally from Orange Grove TX (near Corpus Christi). I understand the leap from a small town atmosphere to the fast paced environment of a Master’s program. I'm currently an O&P student here, having earned my B.S. in Kinesiology-Motor Behavior from Texas A&M University. During my undergrad, I learned the true meaning of the hustle – balancing three jobs as a full time student while shadowing at Hanger Clinic. One of the most defining experiences was serving as a night-home provider for a woman with quadriplegia; she taught me resilience, patience, and how to thrive even on three hours of sleep (I'm not recommending this, undergrad Emily was a different breed). After graduation, my time shadowing led to a full-time role as a technician, where I gained deep hands-on experience in the modification and manufacturing of O&P devices. As a peer advocate, I'm here to be a steady hand when the program gets tough. Whether you need a person in your corner to navigate the workload or just want to talk shop, please feel free to reach out! When I'm not in the lab, you can find me working out, crafting with my best friend, or spending quality time with my significant other. Please reach out to me for peer support!

Catherin Scott

Prosthetics and Orthotics My name is Catherine Scott, and I am currently a second-year prosthetics and orthotics student here at UT Southwestern. I grew up just outside of Houston before ending up in Stillwater, Oklahoma, for my Bachelor’s degree in Biology at Oklahoma State University. While I was there, I shadowed at a prosthetics clinic and developed an appreciation and passion for my field that led me to UT Southwestern for my Master’s. Outside of class I enjoy reading, finding new coffee shops, and trying to get outside when I can! My goal as a peer advocate is to make sure students feel encouraged and supported both academically and personally while here. Please feel free to reach out!