July 29, 2025 — For University of Florida medical student Genevieve Barquet, the path to a career in medicine was inspired by the impact of a late family member.

As the Miami native and UF graduate joins the College of Medicine M.D. Class of 2029, she reflects on her health care journey and shares what she looks forward to about being back in Gainesville.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career as a physician?

A: I didn’t always know I would pursue a career in medicine. In fact, I was a political science major when I began my undergraduate studies at UF. Everything changed when my father, Glenn Barquet, a UF College of Medicine alumnus and interventional cardiologist, sadly passed away due to COVID-19 in 2020.

At his memorial, hosted by HCA Florida Mercy Hospital in Miami, I stood among over a hundred colleagues and former patients whose lives he had touched. I listened as they spoke not only of his skill, but also of his kindness, humility and dedication. In that moment, I realized this was the part of medicine that transcends doubts, long hours and sacrifice. It’s because medicine is the most powerful way to serve others through the love and compassion you extend, which endures even in death. That experience left a lasting impact on me, and I hope to carry this perspective with me as I grow into the role of a future physician.

Q: What drew you to UF’s M.D. program?

A: My first connection to the UF College of Medicine came through my father, a member of the Class of 1997, who often spoke highly of his medical school experience and the lifelong friendships he formed. When I was invited to attend his 25-year reunion in his absence, I witnessed firsthand the strong camaraderie among his classmates — an inspiring example of the community I hoped to find for myself. During the interview process, I felt genuinely welcomed and valued as an individual.

I was especially moved by how many students and staff took the time, even on what could have been their day off, to share their kindness, enthusiasm and pride in the school. During Second Look, I was struck by how organized and engaging the entire event was, and I especially appreciated UF’s constant emphasis on medicine being an art as much as a science. The college’s commitment to humanistic medicine left a lasting impression on me. Finally, in every conversation throughout this process, whether with students, alumni or faculty, one message came through clearly: They chose UF because of “the people.” That answer resonated deeply with me and ultimately led me to choose UF.

Q: What are you looking forward to most over the next four years in Gainesville? 

A: I am looking forward to meeting the incredible UF Medicine faculty and connecting with my classmates as we form a strong, supportive community.

Academically, I look forward to the privilege of studying medicine, but even more so, to the opportunity to serve patients through volunteering in Gainesville. As a proud double Gator, I’m also hoping to see us win a football national championship during the next four years!

Q: How do you like to spend your free time? 

A: I like spending my free time exercising, playing soccer, making pottery, watercolor painting, trying new restaurants and scuba or freediving whenever I get the chance.