Mateo Perez (Picuris Pueblo, Santa Clara Pueblo, Cochiti Pueblo) Post Bacc (Gap Year)

Mateo Perez’s journey into medicine began in high school with a fascination for biology and psychology, but it was his experiences growing up near his Pueblos in northern New Mexico that truly shaped his passion for healthcare. Seeing firsthand the inequities in his community, Mateo sought out opportunities to support mental health and elder care, volunteering with the Dhiya Foundation and shadowing in psychiatry.

After earning his degree from Dartmouth College, Mateo was accepted into the Wy’east Post-Baccalaureate Pathway and will begin medical school at OHSU in Fall 2025. He hopes to return home as a psychiatrist to help Indigenous people navigate mental health challenges and to be a trusted Native provider who patients feel seen by.

For his cohort project, Mateo is documenting his journey to medicine to inspire Pueblo youth to pursue careers in healthcare. Through storytelling and personal reflection, he will create a presentation on the programs, thought processes, and cultural strengths that helped him succeed. His goal is to show other Native students that medicine is an achievable and meaningful path.

When he’s not studying or advocating for mental health, Mateo enjoys playing basketball, video games, and staying engaged with current events.