Match Day Profile: Bernice Alcanzo

Every third Friday in March, fourth-year medical students across the United States learn where the next chapter in their careers will be written. Match Day is the day when the National Resident Matching Program releases results to applicants in sealed envelopes, revealing where they will spend the next several years in residency, training in their chosen specialty. After years of preparation and study, it is a long-awaited and well-deserved day to celebrate. The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix is profiling several students for Match Day 2024.

Meet Bernice Alcanzo

Originally from the Philippines, Bernice Alcanzo’s family moved to Maryland for her mom’s job as a special education teacher. After graduating Stevenson University in Maryland, Alcanzo moved to Arizona to work for a lab and as a case manager for the Arizona Department of Child Safety.

She pivoted toward a career in medicine when she was admitted into Pathways Scholars at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix in 2019, matriculating into medical school the following year.

Alcanzo credits her family as being her biggest champions. They are constantly cheering her on. Her friends have also gone above and beyond to support her.

Path Toward Medicine

What was the spark that led you to become a physician?

My interest in medicine started when I was about eight years old, when my youngest sister was born with cardiac defects and spent quite some time in the NICU before being discharged home.

She went on to live healthily and without any issues until she was 10 when she passed away from a ruptured brain aneurysm. This experience solidified my desire to pursue a career in medicine.

Choosing a Specialty

Do you have a specialty? What is it and why did it interest you, or what led you to it?

I am going to be a urologist! Urology is a surgical specialty that deals with the male and female urinary tract as well as the male reproductive organs. I loved the idea of managing a variety of conditions, from improving quality of life to treating malignancies and being able to see patients long-term.

After scrubbing in on a pediatric urology case, I wanted to learn more about the specialty, so I did an elective during my third year. Working with urologists made me realize that I found the people who I want to work with daily.

They are some of the kindest and funniest doctors. Urology patients are also often so grateful and happy, and I feel incredibly privileged to be able to continue working with them.

What’s Next

Post-Match Day, what are your goals moving forward?

Urology does an early match, and I matched at the University of Arizona in Tucson! I rotated there last year, and I was so impressed with the quality of training. I also loved working with the residents and attendings there.

I’m thrilled to continue the next part of my training in the state I now call home. Soon, I’ll be an aunt, and I’m looking forward to spending time with my family before residency begins.

The College of Medicine – Phoenix Culture

What will you miss most about the College of Medicine – Phoenix? Any advice for incoming medical students?

I will miss seeing my friends the most. I’ve had the privilege of meeting future doctors whom I would trust to care for my family members.

My advice for incoming medical students is to be very intentional with your time these next four years. So much of your time will be spent studying, so when you aren’t, do what makes you happy — hike, cook, spend time with family, friends and your dog!