This month, we are proud to feature Dr. Nicole Welch in our Fellow Spotlight! Currently a PGY4 in her first year of fellowship, Dr. Welch has been a remarkable addition to our Allergy and Immunology Fellowship Program. With her enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to both patient care and learning, Dr. Welch has quickly become an integral part of our team. We invite you to learn more about her journey, experiences in the program, and aspirations for the future!
Where are you from? "Winnipegosis (I know, it sounds like a pulmonary infection, right?! I promise it’s real), Manitoba, Canada."
Where did you do your residency program? "Texas Tech Internal Medicine in Lubbock, Texas."
What inspired you to pursue a career in Allergy and Immunology? "During a gap year between medical school and residency, I had the opportunity to work as a scribe for a private allergist. It was there that I saw firsthand how allergy treatments could improve patients' lives, and I became deeply passionate about the idea of making such a significant impact on someone's well-being. As I explored the field further, I was captivated by the potential of biologics and the remarkable advancements they enable."
Why did you choose UTMB Allergy & Immunology for fellowship? "I'm a Canadian who is sick of snow! But seriously, I was drawn to UTMB not only for its beautiful surroundings but also for its exceptional track record of training accomplished allergists. As one of the oldest programs in the country, UTMB has a rich history of excellence in the field. What truly stood out to me, though, was the happiness and relaxed demeanor of the fellows during my interview—it really spoke to the supportive and positive environment UTMB fosters."
How has your training and experience at UTMB thus far shaped your approach to patient care? "My experience at UTMB has really highlighted how important collaboration and patient-centered care are. I’ve learned that the best outcomes come when we work together as a team, sharing insights from different specialties. It’s also made me realize that patient care isn’t just about the medical side—it’s about truly understanding the patient’s needs, concerns, and goals. Taking the time to listen and consider the whole picture has helped me tailor my approach to each individual, which is something that’s emphasized every day here."
What are your future plans or goals in the field of Allergy and Immunology? "After graduation, my goal is to stay in Texas, with a focus on returning to West Texas. I plan to enter private practice, where I can provide high-quality care to a diverse patient population. I’m also considering a hybrid model that would allow me to stay engaged in academia, working with medical students and residents, with the hope of sparking an interest in allergy and immunology."
Tell us about a memorable experience you’ve had in fellowship thus far? "One of the most memorable experiences during my fellowship was conducting a hazelnut challenge with Nutella on a four-year-old patient. He was understandably cautious with his first bite of Nutella-covered cracker, but then a big smile spread across his face as he said, 'This is good!' Watching his excitement as he passed the challenge and realized he could safely reintroduce hazelnuts into his diet was incredibly rewarding. It might seem like a small thing, but for him, it was a huge milestone, and it reinforced just how profoundly allergy treatment can impact a patient's quality of life. Moments like these remind me why I chose this field—being able to make such a meaningful difference, even in the smallest ways, is truly fulfilling."
When you're not working, what’s a hobby or activity you enjoy that helps you unwind or stay energized? "When I’m not working, one of my favorite hobbies is gardening. I love transforming my backyard into a little retreat, watching the plants grow and thrive. I’ve cultivated a variety of plants, including blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, peppers, cherry tomatoes, a variety of flowers, and hibiscus shrubs. My favorite part, though, is seeing my chihuahua run around the yard, happily munching on the strawberries right off the plants. It’s such a simple pleasure, but it brings so much joy to my day."