AAIM Member Spotlight

The Alliance turns the spotlight on members to highlight how they are making a difference and how they have benefited from AAIM membership. Share your story! To be highlighted on the AAIM website and in AAIM Connection, submit your (or a colleague's) story online or fill out this pdf nomination form and submit it by email.

Current Spotlight

Janelis Gonzalez, MD

Associate Program Director

UM/JMH Internal Medicine Residency Program

University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine

1. How long have you been a member of AAIM?
Since 2023 when I became an Associate Program Director for the UM/JMH Internal Medicine Residency Program.

2. What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is teaching and mentoring residents. Working with learners keeps me engaged, curious, and constantly striving to be the best physician and educator I can be. Residents bring an incredible amount of energy and fresh perspectives to medicine, and their questions challenge me to stay current and continuously expand my own knowledge. In a profession where routine can sometimes set in, teaching brings excitement and purpose to each day.

3. How has AAIM membership been of value to you and your career?
AAIM has provided me with the opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded individuals who share a deep passion for academic medicine, medical education, and the future of healthcare. As an early-career faculty member, AAIM has allowed me to insights from educators and leaders across the country who are dedicated to enhancing residency training and physician development. It is inspiring to be surrounded by people who are committed not only to caring for patients, but also to creating the best possible learning environment for the next generation of physicians.

4. When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in the medical field?
I knew I wanted to pursue medicine when I was in high school after my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. Through this experience, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that compassionate, dedicated healthcare professionals can have not only on patients, but also on their families. The physicians and healthcare team who took the time to educate us, answer our questions, and provide reassurance made us feel seen, heard, and supported. That experience showed me that medicine is truly about guiding people through some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I knew then that I wanted to be that source of support and advocacy for my future patients and their families.

5. What or who inspires you and why?
I am continually inspired by my residents. One of the greatest privileges of working in academic medicine is the opportunity to contribute to their growth as physicians and professionals. Watching residents develop confidence, refine their skills, and discover their own professional identities reminds me why I chose this career. Their enthusiasm continually renews my own sense of purpose and appreciation for the privilege of practicing medicine.

6. What advice would you give to those who wish to pursue a career in this industry?
Never be afraid to ask questions. Meaningful learning only begins when we are willing to acknowledge what we do not know. Medicine is a lifelong journey of growth, and no one has all the answers. The individuals who continue to ask thoughtful questions, seek feedback, and remain open to learning are often the ones who thrive both professionally and personally.

7. What is your favorite book or movie?
One of my favorite movies is Big Fish. At its core, the movie reminds us that the stories we tell, the relationships we build, and the inspiration we provide can have a lasting influence long after moments have passed. It highlights the importance of seeing the extraordinary in everyday life and recognizing how our actions can shape and encourage those around us.

Previous Spotlights

Mentoring

Share Your Story!

To be highlighted on the AAIM website and in AAIM Connection, submit your (or a colleague's) story.

Submit Your Story