Dr. John Mesa was born in Colombia. He shares about moving to Venezuela with his family during the oil boom and living there for a few years before returning to Colombia. From a young age, Dr. Mesa knew he wanted to be a plastic surgeon, but he knew it had to be in the US. This is because in Colombia, in order to become a doctor, one has to attend a private university, but Dr. Mesa knew his parents couldn’t afford it.
He shares his journey of becoming a board-certified plastic surgeon – a process that should take about 13 years, took him 18 years to complete because of all the hurdles and barriers placed in front of him. But overall, he persevered and didn’t give up!
Growing Up and Finding a Path
Growing up in Colombia, Dr. John Mesa had a happy childhood. However, economic hardship forced his family to immigrate to Venezuela when he was seven years old. Venezuela was experiencing an oil boom at the time, and his parents sought better opportunities there. After finishing high school, Dr. Mesa wanted to pursue medical school, but his family lacked the financial resources to support him.
In Colombia, higher education presented a dilemma: free public universities versus expensive private institutions. Even attending a free university would be challenging due to the cost of books and supplies. So, Dr. Mesa returned to Colombia to work and study. His uncle-in-law offered him a job at his retail business, allowing him to work after classes and on weekends. He attended medical school full-time and worked long hours to support himself. This grueling schedule showcased his commitment to his education and future career.
After completing medical school, Dr. Mesa faced another hurdle: specializing in a medical field. Residencies in Colombia were either unpaid at public hospitals or required tuition at private hospitals. Since he needed to support himself, he looked for opportunities abroad and discovered that in the United States, medical residents get paid. Despite the United States being highly competitive, Dr. Mesa saw it as his best path forward.
The Long Road to Becoming a Plastic Surgeon
After graduating from medical school in Colombia, Dr. Mesa returned to the United States to work as a research fellow at Harvard. He spent five years in this role, working tirelessly to enhance his CV and establish himself as a top candidate. He won numerous awards in his field. This recognition underscored his dedication and talent.
When it came time to apply for residencies, Dr. Mesa’s advisor, Dr. Yarin Chai, cautioned him that despite his impressive credentials, his foreign medical degree might hinder his chances of getting into a plastic surgery program directly. Dr. Chai advised him to pursue a general surgery residency first, followed by a plastic surgery residency.
Taking this advice to heart, Dr. Mesa applied for and matched into a general surgery residency at Harvard. He completed his internship and two additional years of residency. However, at Harvard, residents were required to conduct two years of research. Dr. Mesa, eager to focus on plastic surgery, sought a way out of this requirement.
He discovered a loophole that allowed general surgery residents to switch to plastic surgery mid-career, but it required a letter of permission from his program director. Approaching his program director was a daunting task, as general surgeons and plastic surgeons often have a strained relationship. Despite the advice of his mentors, Dr. Mesa requested the letter.
His program director was furious, questioning his audacity as a foreigner to switch to plastic surgery. He agreed to sign the letter, but with a condition: if Dr. Mesa failed to match into a plastic surgery program, he would be kicked out of the general surgery program. This was a huge risk, but Dr. Mesa signed the agreement, knowing his medical career was on the line.
Triumph and the Realization of a Dream
The following months were difficult. Dr. Mesa faced animosity and was treated poorly by his program. He persevered, focusing on his goal. Match day arrived, and Dr. Mesa didn’t receive an email with his results. Assuming he had failed to match, he endured a “walk of shame” at the hospital as colleagues asked about his results.
Later that evening, he received a phone call from Dr. Mackay, who would become his plastic surgery program director at Penn State. Dr. Mackay congratulated him on matching into the program. He had waited to deliver the news, creating a moment of suspense and ultimate joy.
The news transformed Dr. Mesa’s standing at Harvard. He went from being an outsider to a trailblazer. He was the only resident in the program’s history to switch from general surgery to plastic surgery mid-program.
After completing his general surgery residency, Dr. Mesa switched to plastic surgery at Penn State. He converted the two years of required research into two fellowships: one in craniofacial surgery and another in aesthetic surgery. These fellowships allowed him to focus on his specific interests and refine his skills.
Today, Dr. John Mesa is a successful board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in New York City, New Jersey, and Miami. His journey, spanning 13 years from landing in the United States to becoming a practicing plastic surgeon, is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and the opportunities that the American Dream can offer.
Lessons from an American Dream Achieved
What kept Dr. Mesa going through all the challenges and setbacks? It was his unwavering commitment to his dream. He knew that if he pursued anything else, he would not be happy. His passion for plastic surgery, which he saw as a combination of medicine and architecture, fueled his determination.
Dr. Mesa’s story underscores the importance of hard work and resilience. Despite facing numerous obstacles and naysayers, he never gave up on his dream. He seized every opportunity, sought guidance from mentors, and remained focused on his goal.
Dr. Mesa’s journey, marked by significant dedication, also shines a light on some key statistics. According to the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), the path for IMGs (International Medical Graduates) to secure a residency in the U.S. is rigorous, with match rates varying significantly by specialty. Securing a spot in competitive specialties like plastic surgery demands exceptional qualifications and strategic planning.
Advice for Aspiring Immigrants from Dr. John Mesa
What advice does Dr. John Mesa have for those who are pursuing their American dreams?
- Don’t be afraid to reach out for advice: Connect with people who have achieved what you aspire to do.
- Seek guidance and mentorship: A mentor can provide valuable insights and support.
- Be persistent: Don’t give up in the face of rejection.
- Work hard: The American Dream requires dedication and effort.
- Believe in yourself: Have confidence in your abilities and your potential.
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