Meet Ana Torres, M.D.

What drew you to Mayo Clinic for your residency training?

I was drawn to Mayo Clinic primarily because of its mission—the needs of the patient come first—which closely aligns with my own professional values. During my interview day, and now through my experience working within the Mayo system, I’ve come to appreciate how meaningful it is to be part of a community that truly shares that goal. I’ve also been struck by the resources available to make a real difference in patients’ lives in a remarkably timely way. For example, having the ability to obtain a PET scan as early as the next day is something I hadn’t seen elsewhere. The collaborative approach among consulting teams further strengthens this environment and is a major reason patients travel here for care. In addition, the Internal Medicine residency program clearly prioritizes the well-being of its residents. I’ve experienced a strong sense of work-life balance, genuine empathy among my peers, and consistent support from the chief residents 

How is the work-life balance in the training program?

Work-life balance is one of the greatest strengths of our residency program. While the Internal Medicine program is rigorous, the schedule is thoughtfully structured to allow us to recharge, particularly through the alternating inpatient and outpatient months. By the end of an outpatient block, I feel rested and genuinely excited to return to the fast-paced inpatient environment. Program leadership has been highly responsive to resident feedback and clearly prioritizes wellness, which is reflected in our resident-friendly scheduling and the elimination of 24-hour shifts. We also have a strong float pool that helps ensure protected time off during sick days or emergencies. Importantly, I’ve been able to maintain time for activities that bring me joy, such as spending time outdoors, socializing with friends, and hosting small get-togethers. 

What has been your experience moving to Rochester with a partner?

Moving to Rochester with my partner has been a wonderful experience! We’ve really enjoyed exploring the city together—finding our favorite restaurants, a new church community, and outdoor spots we love. We’ve also taken advantage of being close to the Twin Cities, where we’ve gone to concerts and shows, enjoyed seafood boils (at King Cajun), and spent time shopping! My husband had a smooth transition as well and was able to find a job quickly; he now works as a nurse at Saint Marys Hospital. We’re also expecting our first baby, and we’re especially grateful that our roles allow for a healthy balance between our professional and personal lives. 

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I see myself as an allergist-immunologist, ideally at Mayo Clinic. I’m particularly interested in continuing my research in asthma, atopy, and the immune response. During my intern year, I was able to connect early with a research mentor who has helped guide me in building a strong fellowship application. I’ve also collaborated with additional faculty in the Allergy/Immunology department on case reports and other scholarly projects. Looking ahead, I hope to work closely with medical students and residents and serve as a mentor. Mentorship has played a significant role in my own journey, and I would value the opportunity to have a similar impact on others’ careers.