Camila Naranjo Colmenares, Clinical Operations Volunteer,  CSE 1001 Teacher Assistant on Influential Women

Influential Woman · Healthcare

Camila Naranjo Colmenares

Anesthesia

Clinical Operations Volunteer, CSE 1001 Teacher Assistant, University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering

Minneapolis, MN

4Years experience

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Bachelor's of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering (in progress) with minor in Sweden and Neuroscience - University of Minnesota Cert First Aid Certification Cert Academy of Emergency and Trauma Surgery Certification Cert Certification in Surgery Cert Anesthesia Cert And Forensics Cert Advocacy Certification Member American Medical Student Association Member Society of Women Engineers

Her Story

About Camila

I have been working in healthcare for approximately 4 years now. My main roles include serving as a Clinical Operations Volunteer at Fairview's Clinical Surgery Center in the PACU, where I focus on administrative tasks and improving workflow efficiency. I am also an ambassador at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, handling organization and image portrayal. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor's in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in Sweden and Neuroscience. Additionally, I hold certifications in first aid, emergency and trauma surgery, and surgery, anesthesia, and forensics. I am involved with the American Medical Student Association and the Society of Women Engineers.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Camila

01What do you attribute your success to?

My parents have been key to my success. From a very early age, they taught me important things that have shaped my career, and they continue to support me to this day. I would not have been able to achieve what I have without them.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice I received is to reach out to people. I used to be scared of bothering others or thinking I didn't have enough experience or certifications. Someone told me that people are always willing to help, and the worst thing that can happen is receiving a no. That really changed the game for me.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Don't be afraid to send those emails and reach out to people. People want to teach you and help you, you just have to reach out to them.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

Challenges include the lack of women in the field, with very few women in groups of 30 or more, and the difficulty of gaining experience because jobs and internships require prior experience which is hard to obtain. Opportunities exist through programs and mentorships specifically for women in engineering, and advancements in AI and new technologies that are helping in research and finding solutions.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

Honesty is crucial in the science world to hold each other accountable. I also highly value family, as they have been a key part of my journey, and perseverance, never giving up.

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