On September 4, 2024, the Miami VA Healthcare System hosted a commissioning ceremony for Staff Psychologist Dr. Irina Zuyeva, who was commissioned as a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserves.
The ceremony marked a significant moment in Dr. Zueva’s journey from Kazakhstan to the United States and now to military service.
Growing up in Kazakhstan, Dr. Zueva was inspired by the strength and freedom of the United States. Watching the 9/11 attacks on television, she felt immense sadness and horror, even though she was far from the scene of the incident. “If the greatest and most powerful country in the world could be attacked like that, what could happen to a less powerful country?” she said. The bravery of the U.S. military in responding to the attacks left her with an admiration and respect for the military that has only grown stronger each year.
After immigrating to the United States, Dr. Zuyeva enrolled in graduate studies in psychology, hoping to work with veterans. After gaining U.S. citizenship, she was accepted into the Miami VA’s Clinical Health Psychology Residency Program, where she worked with combat veterans, many of whom are still serving in the Reserves. Her experience at the VA deepened her appreciation for veterans and ultimately led to her decision to enlist in the U.S. Army Reserves.
“Every day I see great honor, courage, dedication and passion in the veterans I work with,” said Dr. Zueva. “Their dedication and tenacity remind me of the respect I felt for the U.S. military as a child.”
During the ceremony, Dr. Zueva was administered the oath of office by her colleague and mentor, U.S. Air Force Colonel Gillette. Dr. Zueva said the moment was filled with pride and honor. “It was incredibly special to have someone I respect and admire asking me to begin this new journey,” she said.
In both her civilian and military roles, Dr. Zueva hopes to continue serving veterans and inspiring future generations of psychologists and service members. “My greatest hope is that our country will continue to be a symbol of strength, hope and freedom,” she said.
The Miami VA Healthcare System congratulates Dr. Zuyeva on her appointment and looks forward to her continued service to our Veterans and our nation.
