Open Book . . . Bency Louidor-Paulynice

On Wednesdays, the Daily Voice introduces you to a student or resident at UMass Medical School. We’ve asked our subjects to answer a few questions that reveal a little of their personalities. If you know someone who you’d like to see profiled, let us know at ummscommunications@umassmed.edu.

Bency Louidor-Paulynice, MD, PGY1, is a family medicine resident who graduated from UMass Medical School this year. She is originally from Haiti but moved to Brockton when she was 15.

Why did you choose UMass Medical School?

I became attracted to the medical school upon completion of the UMMS Summer Enrichment Program during my junior year in college. During the short eight weeks I spent there, I became aware of the diversity, the strong support system and the welcoming environment that exists at UMass Medical School. When it came time to apply, I knew this had to be my top choice.

Describe yourself in six words or fewer.

I consider myself to be happy, caring, resilient, a hard worker, open minded, and an organized person.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, name three things you would want.

I would want water, shelter and a source of light.

If you could have dinner with a famous person, living or dead, who would that be and why?

I would be honored to have dinner with Bill Cosby. I grew up watching his show at a young age and he became my role model subsequently. His show depicts family values, success and the importance of education.

What person or experience made you decide to become a doctor and why?

My grandfather. At a young age, I had the misfortune of seeing the pain my grandfather experienced secondary to a massive stroke. He went from a vibrant and independent man to a paralyzed person who depended on others for his most basic needs. I enjoyed spending time with him. Even though he could not say a word,I could see the glimpse of joy in his face. I have relived that experience many times with elderly patients on the inpatient service, and it always puts a smile on my face.

What is the most interesting or challenging job (paid or unpaid) you’ve ever had and what did you learn about yourself?

 I worked as a medical assistant at the student clinic in college. Every weekend, I saw the same students the majority of the time who were seeking urgent care due to lacerations or morning after pill and the occasional suicide attempts. I was often the one counseling the young women seeking the morning after pill to practice safe sex. I pretty soon realized that I enjoyed those encounters and made a difference.

What would your fellow residents be surprised to learn about you?

I love to watch the Discovery Channel.

If residency at UMass Medical School had not been an option, what would you be doing right now?

I would be in the process of re-applying for residency next year and would be working in a research lab in the meantime.

If you could change the world as a physician, what would you like to do?

I would educate underserved families about the importance of healthy living such as healthy eating and exercising. I would help them find the means to accomplish such goals. This would lead to a decrease in childhood obesity in the long run.

Most surprising thing you’ve found out about being a resident?

I was expecting to feel a change on my first day of residency but surprisingly I still felt like a medical student.

Most surprising thing you’ve discovered about Worcester?

The many ethnic restaurants.