Eliani Uc
“You’re never done, no matter how old you are. There’s always more you can do.”
Eliani Uc, inspired by these words from her mothers, has made the most out of the many changes and challenges in her life.
In fact, the Mexico City native moved to San Antonio, learned a new language and culture, earned a bachelor’s degree in forensic science at Baylor University, earned a master’s degree in health in kinesiology at UT San Antonio, and now is pursuing her passion for nutrition and health promotion.
Uc is currently a clinical registered dietitian at Methodist Healthcare System in San Antonio. Her research areas of interest are nutrigenetics, nutrigenomics, and their relation to cancer.
To further her training and education, Uc applied for the Éxito! Latino Cancer Research Leadership Training program. The program, led by Dr. Amelie G. Ramirez at UT Health San Antonio with support from the National Cancer Institute, recruits 25 master’s-level students and professionals each year for a five-day summer institute to promote doctoral degrees and careers in Latino cancer.
“[The Éxito! summer institute] provided valuable information and a network of support I did not have before,” Uc said.
She urged others to apply for Éxito! and pursue their dreams.
“Don’t sell yourself short. If you have made it to Éxito!, it is because there is greatness in you,” Uc said. “Continue what you are doing and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way.”