This week marks the beginning of the selection and allocation of places for Specialized Health Training (FSE) in Spain. While the first few days are reserved for candidates from various fields like Pharmacy, Psychology, and Chemistry, the day is approaching for medical aspirants. On May 4, 2026, Bianca Ciobanu, who topped the 2026 Medical Intern Resident (MIR) exam, will have the privilege of choosing her specialty without worry.<\/p>\n
Initially undecided between Endocrinology, Family and Community Medicine, and Dermatology, Ciobanu has made her choice clear: she will select Dermatology and Venereology at the prestigious Hospital Cl\u00ednic in Barcelona. \u201cI am at home here; it\u2019s where I studied my degree,\u201d she remarked about staying in Catalonia for her training.<\/p>\n
The choice of dermatology may come as no surprise, as it is one of the most coveted specialties, often filling up quickly. For Ciobanu, the appeal goes beyond the absence of night shifts and the lucrative pay. She aims to improve patient care, believing in a kind of medicine that blends clinical rigor with critical thinking. \u201cMy goal is to contribute to concrete improvements in patient care,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n
Ciobanu highlights that dermatology is not just about treating what\u2019s visible; it demands a rigorous interpretation of the underlying conditions. Specializing in dermatology allows her to integrate areas like immunology and oncology, focusing on chronic disease management that can significantly impact patients’ quality of life. \u201cIn that balance between clinical precision and a holistic view is where I find the true essence of medicine,\u201d she asserts.<\/p>\n
Emphasizing a commitment to continuous learning, Ciobanu states, \u201cExcellence is not achieved; it is demonstrated every day.\u201d She plans to further her research, especially in immunology, contributing her share to a healthcare system in need of dedicated and skilled professionals.<\/p>\n
This year\u2019s MIR exam garnered controversy, with Ciobanu achieving a remarkable score of 119.37\u2014the highest in the exam\u2019s history. However, she faced unfounded accusations of wrongdoing, primarily via anonymous comments on social media. The Ministry of Health later affirmed that her scores were legitimate, further solidifying her place as a reputable candidate amid doubts.<\/p>\n
Despite the controversy, Ciobanu insists she doesn\u2019t wish to be remembered merely as \u201cnumber 1\u201d but rather for the impact she can make on her patients\u2019 lives. \u201cWhat truly matters is that my future patients feel heard, supported, and understood,\u201d she emphasized.<\/p>\n
Though topping the MIR list carries its weight, Ciobanu has navigated significant challenges during her academic journey. Educating herself in Catalan posed initial difficulties, but she transformed these challenges into strengths. \u201cAchieving my academic excellence, with a 6.7 GPA, fills me with pride,\u201d she comments, noting how it signifies both knowledge and adaptability.<\/p>\n
Additionally, finding suitable housing in Barcelona proved to be an odyssey. Remarkably, she received more congratulations for securing an apartment than for her outstanding MIR result\u2014a reflection of the broader issues facing healthcare professionals in major cities. \u201cThis highlights barriers that many of us face when moving to urban areas and deserves systemic attention,\u201d she states.<\/p>\n
For Ciobanu, being the top candidate isn’t just a title but a responsibility. She aims to embrace the evolving landscape of healthcare, including the integration of AI, while collaborating with fellow health professionals to strive for equitable healthcare for all. As she prepares for four years of residency ahead, her core mission remains unchanged: to help and heal.<\/p>\n