Finding a Path in Medicine
“Podiatry gave me everything I wanted.” For Divya Paramasivam, DPM, a second-year podiatry resident at the University of Florida College of Medicine — Jacksonville, entering the medical field was never a question – it was a matter of what specialty to pursue.
Growing up around physicians in her family, she gained firsthand exposure to obstetrics and gynecology and pediatrics. While each field intrigued her, none piqued her interest quite like podiatry.
“It was very hands-on with surgery,” Paramasivam said. “Then you have your daily interaction with patients, it’s the best of both worlds.”
A true Florida girl, Paramasivam was born and raised in Tampa. She moved to South Florida, where she completed her medical degree at Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine in Miami.
From Rotations to Residency
As a medical student, clinical rotations brought her to the UF College of Medicine — Jacksonville for the first time in July of 2022.
“I got to see what it would be like to be a resident here and I loved it,” Paramasivam said. “It was one of the strongest podiatry programs I had seen. Since we’re a Level I Trauma Center, I saw all sorts of pathology in that short time.”
Exactly one year later, she was back on the Jacksonville campus – this time as a resident. Like many trainees, the first year of residency had its challenges. “It’s a whole different ball game from school,” she said. “You’re working a lot of hours and no day is the same. You may be in the operating room or treating patients one day and working through insurance hiccups the next.”
Despite the adjustment, she knew this is where she was supposed to be. “A huge benefit of coming to this program is seeing the full spectrum of patients. The population is so diverse, you are well equipped for the real world.”
She doesn’t take her job lightly, noting that treating patients is something she takes immense pride in. “It’s a privilege to be able to treat people when they’re most vulnerable and take care of them in that state,” she said. “I really respect and cherish this profession.”
Former program director Thomas Roukis, DPM, praised Paramavism’s contributions as a resident.
“Dr. Paramavism has the 5 A’s associated with the most successful providers. Specifically, she is Available; Affable; Articulate; Accountable; and Able.”
She is especially grateful for faculty support. “I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” Paramasivam said.
Looking Toward the Future
As a second-year resident, she is already looking toward the future.
“We start applying for fellowship soon.” She hopes to one day pay it forward by teaching the next generation of medical professionals like herself. “I want to learn all aspects of this job and then see what I can contribute to a residency program down the line,” Paramasivam said. “Working in academic medicine is a great responsibility and I want to make sure I’m an impactful teacher and mentor to residents and fellows one day.”
Outside the hospital, Paramasivam enjoys dancing, reading a good book and spending time outdoors.