07 Dec Mentor Profile: Daniel Perez
Since grade school, I began participating in sports mainly, baseball and basketball. During high school, I played school and club basketball and participated in tournaments throughout Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. Basketball helped me develop discipline and strengthened my goal-oriented mindset.
During my college years, I became interested in self-defense. Krav Maga became the martial art of interest. It was developed by the Israeli military providing civilians and soldiers the self-defense skills necessary to protect oneself. I have been involved with Krav Maga for over eleven years and enjoyed it so much that I became an instructor. I am a black belt, which is the highest attainable ranking. I have taught self-defense classes and group fitness classes to men and women of different socioeconomic statuses. I have participated in self-defense and active shooter seminars. I have also had the privilege of participating in teaching law enforcement personnel self-defense. Krav Maga has improved my self-discipline, physical well-being, and self-defense.
My interest in medicine began during high school. My dad, who is a family medicine physician, has been a great influence regarding my desire to pursue a medical career. He has helped me understand how noble the discipline of medicine is and how satisfying it can be helping people recuperate from an illness or injury and live healthier lives. I have worked as a medical scribe for the Methodist Health System in San Antonio. I have also over the years shadowed and worked with numerous physicians, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners.