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Fellow Focus in Four - Dhara Dave, MD, Nephrology

November 14, 2022
by Sarah L. Spaulding

Fellow Focus in Four introduces you to fellows from each section of the Department of Internal Medicine. This month's fellow is Dhara Dave, MD, a clinical fellow in Nephrology.

Why did you choose medicine?

I come from a family of farmers. My dad deviated from that by becoming a businessman. Growing up around him and watching him pursue what he enjoyed really broadened the possibilities for me. My interest in medicine in particular arose at a young age as I enjoyed biology and chemistry a lot during my school years. Thereafter, as I saw various diseases in my own family, I got motivated to understand them and read about them. Over time I realized my family would come to me with questions about their illness. I decided to pursue a career in medicine to gain knowledge that I could share with patients so they can understand what they’re dealing with and cope with it better.

Why did you choose Yale Department of Internal Medicine for your fellowship?

After completing residency at a small program in Texas (TTUHSC – Amarillo) where I had excellent training, I was looking to gain experience with a bigger program and have a chance to work with more expansive multidisciplinary teams in managing patients.

What was your path to Yale?

I did my med school in Uganda. My university has close ties with Yale, so I had always heard about the professional opportunities at Yale.

After my residency, when I had the chance to pursue my career further at Yale, I knew I would take the opportunity. I wanted to learn from the best academicians and clinicians in the field of nephrology.

What's a fun fact about you?

I enjoy dancing and was a performer as a kid.

Perks of living in New Haven? Connecticut?

New Haven has a small town feel in a big university town. It’s a great feeling living in a town but knowing that you are so close to nature in all ways. The beach is 20 minutes away and trails start in your backyard. And if you still crave a bigger city, it’s only 1.5 hours to get to one.

What is your 5-year goal? 10-year? Overall career?

After my fellowship, I’m hoping to become part of an academic-based practice. I want to continue training inspired young students, residents, and fellows while also contributing to the community through my clinical practice.

Submitted by Jane E. Dee on November 15, 2022