Holly Harada, MD
Why did you choose medicine?
Medicine provided the ideal opportunity to build longitudinal relationships with patients, while whetting my curiosity about human physiology and disease pathophysiology. I have always had a special place in my heart for older adults, as I was raised in part by my grandparents and volunteered at a local nursing home prior to medical school. Through geriatrics, I hope to give back to my community by helping patients navigate the health system in a way that aligns with their overall goals of care.
Why did you choose Yale Department of Internal Medicine for your fellowship?
Yale’s focus on fellow education and well-being was evident, even from virtual interviews and meet-and-greets. The faculty were clearly invested in fellows’ growth and seemed eager to share their knowledge with the next generation. I was also excited to learn from experts and leading researchers in the field of geriatrics, who combined evidence-based medicine with patient-centered care.
What was your path to Yale?
Geographically, I have moved progressively eastward over the course of my medical training. Born and raised in Hawaii, I attended medical school at the University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine and completed residency at UC Davis. I had wanted to move to the East Coast to be closer to my partner and to experience a new environment (with four seasons!) for the first time. With its exceptionally strong geriatrics program, Yale was the perfect fit.
Perks of living in New Haven? Connecticut?
I love the lush foliage in New Haven and the availability of different hiking trails. Connecticut is home to so many smaller cities, and I always admire the New England-style architecture and tree-lined roads on my drives.
Yale School of Medicine’s Department of Internal Medicine Section of Geriatrics strives to improve the health of older adults by providing exceptional patient care, training future leaders and innovators in aging, and engaging in cutting-edge research. To learn more about their mission, visit Geriatrics.