A new role for CV Garcia
In February 2026, the Student Affairs office in the College of Medicine welcomed Claudia “CV” Garcia as the newest member of the team. Garcia serves as an academic and career advisor.
She recently shared some information about her role and herself with the Pulse.
What is your role at NEOMED?
I serve as the academic and career advisor for the College of Medicine, where I work closely with students from their first year through graduation, helping them explore their interests, clarify their goals and prepare for residency. I enjoy getting to know students so I can support both their professional growth and the personal side of their medical school journey. Additionally, I am the co-director of the Medical Spanish Badge program, where I help students build their Spanish skills for clinical settings by connecting them with resources and creating opportunities to practice through our conversation hour, Conversaciones. It is always rewarding to see their confidence grow as they prepare to care for Spanish-speaking patients.
What led you to NEOMED?
I was drawn to NEOMED for the opportunity to work closely with students pursuing health-related degrees. I have always been a bit of a science nerd, so the idea of being surrounded by students who are passionate about medicine and research just felt like a great fit. I enjoy conversations where people are curious and thinking deeply about what they are learning.
What do you hope to accomplish in your new role?
In this role, I want to make sure students have the right information, resources and guidance to make career decisions that align with their interests and goals. I take a holistic approach by offering thoughtful advice and connecting students with the right resources when they need them, from academic support to even sharing the best places to go hiking. Just as important, I want students to feel heard, supported and confident throughout their time at NEOMED. My goal is for them to leave feeling ready for residency and excited to grow into transformational leaders.
What inspired you to work in your profession?
As a first-generation student and immigrant, I found navigating the U.S. educational system was not always easy. I completed my K–12 education in Mexico, so adjusting to college here came with a lot of learning curves. Along the way, I was fortunate to have mentors who really supported me and encouraged me to pursue my goals. That experience is what inspired me to do this work. I want to be a source of support and encouragement for students. Medical school can be especially challenging, and having someone who listens, guides, and believes in you can make a meaningful difference.
Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?
I grew up in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, a city on the U.S.–Mexico border. Growing up between two cultures really shaped my perspective and how I connect with others. I have been living in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, for about 10 years now. Over time, I have found a great community of like-minded people who have made Ohio feel like home.
Tell me about your family. Any pets?
I live here in Ohio with my husband, and we will be celebrating our tenth anniversary this year. We love spending time outdoors together, especially visiting the Summit Metro Parks, riding our bikes on the Towpath, and kayaking in the summer. We also have a 19-year-old cat named Hermione, who still acts like she is two most days. I am the oldest of two, and my younger sister lives in Connecticut with her spouse and my two-year-old niece. My mom is still back home in Mexico, so staying connected across distances is very important to me.
What’s your favorite book or book you’ve been recommending lately? Why?
Instead of recommending a book, I am going to recommend the podcast Articles of Interest, which explores the history of clothing and its connection to culture and society. I just finished a recent season called Gear that looks at the link between outdoor clothing and the military, and I was surprised by how many everyday items we use have roots in military design. I like it because it takes something we usually overlook and turns it into a deeper conversation about innovation, history, and even politics, so you start to see everyday things in a different way.
What do you do better than anyone you know?
I describe myself as a bit of a jack of all trades. I do not know that I do any one thing better than everyone else, but I enjoy being able to do a little bit of everything. I have always been interested in creative hobbies like dancing, singing, playing the piano, painting and cooking. I am usually exploring something new or finding ways to stay creative. The one area I have not quite gotten into is sports.
What’s the best advice you ever received?
One of the best pieces of advice I ever received came from a college mentor who told me to think of life like a river. Instead of trying to control every step, be open to where it takes you and stay flexible with your goals. I have carried that perspective with me. While I still have a general sense of what I want in life, being open to unexpected opportunities has led me to experiences I never would have planned for. In many ways, that mindset is part of what brought me to NEOMED, and it continues to guide my approach to both my work and my life.