For Dr. Arianna Hernandez Fernandez, the path to residency was shaped by both determination and a clear sense of where she felt most at home. A UMHS 2026 graduate, she begins her Preliminary in Medicine this summer at Cleveland Clinic Florida in Weston, an institution that stood out to her during clinical rotations for its collaborative environment and high standard of patient care.
Originally from Puerto Rico, Dr. Hernandez Fernandez brings a strong sense of purpose and adaptability to her medical training. In this interview with the UMHS Endeavour, she reflects on her journey through medical school, the experiences that defined her clinical education, and how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are beginning to shape modern medicine. She also offers thoughtful advice to students preparing for the Match and navigating their own path to residency.
From Puerto Rico to South Florida
UMHS Endeavour: Today we’re speaking with Dr. Arianna Hernandez Fernandez, a 2026 graduate. Dr. Hernandez, could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your upcoming residency at Cleveland Clinic Florida? What are you most excited about?
Dr. Arianna Hernandez Fernandez: Yes, hi. I’m still getting used to hearing “Dr. Hernandez” [laughs].
I’m originally from Puerto Rico, born and raised, and I’ve always had a very active lifestyle. I love being outdoors; that’s a big part of who I am. When I moved to South Florida for my electives and rotations, that really influenced where I saw myself long term.
During my time at Cleveland Clinic, I truly fell in love with the environment—the people, the level of care, and the life I was building there. That experience played a major role in my decision to pursue my preliminary year in Internal Medicine at Cleveland Clinic Florida.
I’m especially excited to stay in Florida, be closer to home, and have a strong support system. Being able to balance residency with a lifestyle that includes things I enjoy, like being near the beach, was important to me.
Dr. Arianna Hernandez Fernandez on the UMHS campus in sunny St. Kitts. Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Hernandez Fernandez.
Building a foundation at UMHS
Can you tell us a little bit about your experience at UMHS and how it helped prepare you for residency?
My time at UMHS was a very meaningful experience. The basic sciences gave me a strong academic foundation, it prepared me well, especially for my Step exams. One of the things I appreciated most was the diversity of the student body and faculty. Learning from physicians with different backgrounds and perspectives added a lot to my education. Being on the island also created a unique environment—it gave us space to focus, grow, and recharge when needed.
It’s definitely not an easy journey, but that challenge helped me develop discipline, organization, and balance, which are essential skills moving forward. UMHS gave an excellent foundation and helped for my transition into clinical rotations. I felt prepared to apply what I had learned in a real-world setting and never felt like I had gaps in my education.
Dr. Arianna Hernandez Fernandez at work. Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Hernandez Fernandez.
Clinical rotations and real-world experience
Can you walk us through your clinical rotation experience and any moments that stood out?
UMHS offers a wide range of clinical rotation sites, which exposes students to different healthcare settings and patient populations.
For me, one of the biggest lessons during rotations was understanding that you’re not expected to know everything—and that’s okay. What matters most is being proactive, asking questions, and taking every opportunity to learn.
I made it a priority to put myself out there, stay engaged, and build relationships with the people around me. Those experiences helped me grow not only clinically, but also in confidence, communication, and adaptability. Rotations are really what you make of them, and I found that being present, curious, and open to learning made all the difference.
Dr. Arianna Hernandez Fernandez on the UMHS campus in St. Kitts. Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Hernandez Fernandez.
Preparing for the Match
How did you prepare for the Match, and what advice would you give to future students?
One of the most important things I learned during the Match process is to truly believe in yourself. I believe it’s important to set your own expectations and be willing to put in the work to reach your goals. You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, but you do need to be someone who is committed, hardworking, and eager to learn. During my rotations, I focused on being present, asking questions, and showing genuine interest in learning—and that made a strong impression on my attendings. Building strong relationships during rotations is key. Networking matters, and your personal statement should clearly reflect who you are and what drives you.
The role of artificial intelligence in medicine
Did you have any exposure to AI during your clinical rotations, and how do you see it being used in practice?
Yes, I did see some early use of AI. Tools are being used for documentation and reviewing patient data.
It helps streamline workflow and allows physicians to focus more on patient care.
But it doesn’t replace clinical judgment—it supports decision-making. We need to learn how to use it responsibly.
Dr, Arianna Hernandez Fernandez with Dr. Jagadeesh Nagappa (one of her favorite professors) on the UMHS campus in St. Kitts. Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Hernandez Fernandez.
Looking ahead in medicine
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals in medicine?
I want to work in a field where I can build meaningful connections with patients.
I’m also interested in teaching and mentorship, because mentors played a big role in my journey.
Advice for future UMHS students
Is there anything else you’d like to share with prospective students?
Focus on staying organized, consistent, and intentional with your time. Finding a system that works for you is key. Everyone’s path is different.
Find balance, recharge yourself; it really makes a difference.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help, and give yourself grace throughout the process. You are here to learn.
Build strong friendships, create your support system, and always stay curious. You don’t have to be the smartest person to succeed—if you stay dedicated and put in the work, you will get there.
Email Dr. Hernandez Fernandez at arhernandez@gmail.com or hernandezfernadezarianna@gmail.com
(Top photo) Dr. Arianna Hernandez Fernandez. Photo: Courtesy of Dr. Hernandez Fernandez.
Scott is Director of Digital Content & Alumni Communications Liaison at UMHS and editor of the UMHS Endeavour blog. When he's not writing about UMHS students, faculty, events, public health, alumni and UMHS research, he writes and edits Broadway theater reviews for a website he publishes in New York City, StageZine.com.
