Built on Curiosity: How Kyra Tito Found Her Way in Medicine

KyraTito1For Kyra Tito, the path to medicine has always been rooted in curiosity — an interest in understanding how things work, breaking them down to their core and building knowledge from the ground up. Now, as a fourth-year student at ɫ of Medicine, that curiosity has led her to a specialty where discovery happens every day: diagnostic radiology. 

On Match Day, Tito learned she would continue her journey at AdventHealth Orlando, stepping into a field that blends medicine, technology and interpretation in powerful ways. But her path to radiology wasn’t always linear. 

Initially drawn to a different specialty, Tito began exploring new possibilities during her first year. Determined to find the right fit, she took initiative; cold emailing radiologists across Atlanta for shadowing opportunities. One response was all it took. “I was able to shadow, and ever since then, I was absolutely hooked,” she said. 

What captivated her was the complexity and nuance of the field. Radiology offered a unique lens into the human body. One where every image tells a story, and no two cases look exactly the same.  

“Even if you’re looking for the same diagnosis, it can present completely different from patient to patient,” she explained. “It keeps you constantly learning.” 

For Tito, the specialty also aligned naturally with her background and interests beyond medicine. With experience in web engineering and a passion for building computers, she found herself drawn to radiology’s integration of technology and innovation.  

“It’s a field that touches everything,” she said. “No matter what specialty you’re in, imaging is becoming an essential part of care.” 

As Match Day approached, Tito experienced the emotional highs and lows familiar to many medical students — anticipation, excitement and moments of uncertainty. But through it all, she maintained a steady belief in herself and her journey. “No matter what happened, I knew I would bring my passion and my training to wherever I landed,” she said. 

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When she finally opened her envelope, one thought stood above all: she was going home. 

Originally from South Florida, Tito matched into a program that brings her closer to family, support systems and the communities that shaped her. That proximity carries deeper meaning, allowing her to serve populations she has long felt called to support, particularly communities impacted by Latino health care disparities. 

Her time at ɫ of Medicine helped sharpen that purpose. Through an education grounded in health equity, Tito learned to look beyond clinical diagnoses and consider the broader realities affecting patient care. “It’s not just about treating a condition,” she said. “It’s about understanding everything that impacts a patient’s ability to receive that care...their environment, their access, their resources.” 

That perspective will stay with her as she continues her training, beginning with a transitional year at Wellstar Kennestone before entering radiology residency. As she takes these next steps, Tito is focused on building a strong clinical foundation while continuing to grow into the physician she has envisioned since childhood. 

“I’ve wanted to be a doctor since I was five years old,” she shared. Now, she is not only realizing that dream but also becoming the first physician in her family, a milestone that reflects generations of sacrifice and perseverance. As the daughter of Puerto Rican and Peruvian heritage, Tito carries that legacy with pride. “My family came to this country for a better life,” she said. “I’m grateful to be a part of that story and to be an example for those coming after me.” 

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For students who may be navigating their own path to medicine, Tito offers a message grounded in resilience and self-belief: don’t let others define what’s possible for you.  

“There will always be people who tell you that you can’t,” she said. “But if you know what you want, you have to bet on yourself.” 

She also emphasizes the importance of community — leaning on those who believe in you, even when self-doubt creeps in — and finding moments of joy along the way. “Keep a good attitude. Keep your humor,” she added. “It will carry you through more than you think.” 

With Match Day behind her and a new chapter ahead, Kyra Tito is ready to keep learning, keep evolving, and continue seeing medicine through a different lens — one image at a time. 

 

 

 

About the Author

Michael Martin is a content strategist who believes in crafting compelling stories that inspire and connect. With a pen for storytelling, he brings the journeys of students, faculty and staff to life, highlighting their impact and dedication to healthcare.

Contact

Michael Martin
Digital Content Strategist
Office of Marketing & Communications
mamartin@msm.edu