UCSF Fresno’s success and growth are a direct result of the dedication and inspiration of our faculty, staff, residents, fellows, students, alumni, partners, donors and friends. In each issue of Focus, we introduce you to the people who contribute to the greatness of UCSF Fresno through informal interviews.
This month, please meet Tia Vang, MD, assistant clinical professor, UCSF Fresno Department of Internal Medicine and faculty practice physician at University Medicine Associates. Dr. Vang is fluent in Hmong.
What is your name? Nickname?
My name is Tia Vang, MD.
What is your hometown? Where did you go to school? High School? Undergrad? Medical School and Residency?
My hometown is Fresno. I graduated from Sunnyside High School, and attended college at the University of California, Berkeley. I received my medical degree from the University of Washington School of Medicine and completed internal medicine residency training with Alameda Health System/Highland Hospital in Oakland, California.
What are your titles?
I am an UCSF assistant clinical professor at UCSF Fresno.
Why did you decide to become a physician?
From a young age, I have always been fascinated with math and science. At the same time, I grew up seeing my family and community members struggle with access to quality health services. I eventually decided to merge my interests in a career in medicine.
How did the UCSF Fresno Doctors Academy influence your decision?
UCSF Fresno Doctors Academy was instrumental in providing me with opportunities to gain exposure to health-related careers while allowing me to learn and understand the health disparities in Fresno County. It also enhanced my experience with a rigorous academic curriculum, which shaped me into a competitive college applicant. The Doctors Academy strongly influenced my perspectives and growth as a high school student and helped to pave the way for my career in medicine.
Do you have any areas of expertise or special interests, if so, what are they?
I practice primary care Internal Medicine with interests in metabolic syndromes, preventative medicine, and social determinants of health.
What, if any, challenges or obstacles did you encounter on your path to becoming a physician?
As the first in my family to go to college and medical school, it was challenging to navigate medical school prerequisites while helping to support my six siblings financially and academically. However, my struggles to balance multiple responsibilities strengthened my resilience, which helped me be successful in medical school and residency.
What advice do you have for students who are pursuing careers in health and medicine?
Find those who share your similar interests and let them guide you to carve your own path.
What is at the top of your professional to-do list?
My priority is to be a mentor to residents and students, and to collaborate with organizations and other professionals who are interested in addressing health disparities to help improve health outcomes in the Valley.
What do you like to do in your off time?
I enjoy doing international backpacking trips.
What is the most important thing you would like people to know about you? Or what else would you like to add about you, your background, family or career?
I am very happy to be back in Fresno, and to serve and be a voice for the communities that have inspired my journey to medicine.
