Dr. Nuria Lacuey (MED'07) is currently working at the department de Epilepsia de University Hospitals in Cleveland. After finishing his studies in Medicine in the University of Navarra In 2007, Nuria Lacuey applied for the spanish medical residency program and did the residency program in Neurology at the Vall d'Hebron Hospital in Barcelona.

With a deep clinical and research vocation towards one of the most prominent diseases of the nervous system, epilepsy, he did not hesitate to work hard until he was able to develop his career in this field in the United States.

Why did you decide to study medicine?

What motivated me to study medicine was my passion for science, so I decided to follow in my sister's footsteps. This career allowed (and allows) me to enjoy my passion in the deepest and most human sense, that of helping others. 

After graduating and working for some time in Spain, you decided to work abroad. Do you think that the University of Navarra prepared you for this challenge?

The University of Navarra gave me the opportunity to meet people from many parts of Spain and even from other countries. Some of my professors had trained in international hospitals and shared their experiences. In addition, the UNAV allowed us to train for a year in another European country. I think that, in a way, this kept my mind more open, with more options for the future. 

What has been your professional career?

Since I was a second year resident I have had a special interest in epilepsy and research, so when I finished residency program, I decided to take the exams to access the US system and do the subspecialty in "Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology".

What is your day-to-day life like nowadays?

work at department Epilepsy at University Hospitals of Cleveland where we evaluate patients who have seizures and assess the possibility of surgical treatment to cure them. Much of my time is spent in research, using brain stimulation techniques for the treatment of epilepsy and other diseases. This specialization program requires an exact knowledge and understanding of the brain. It is an open field, where much remains to be done.

What do you think the University of Navarra contributed to your professional training?

The University of Navarra has been a great support. Professors, advisors and clinical tutors were always close to me, even when I finished my degree. In addition to a good medical education, the University of Navarra provided me with ethical values that have been essential throughout my professional career.