Meet Sebastian Placide, from Brooklyn, New York. He attended Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and is a PGY-1 in the Traditional Internal Medicine Residency Program.
What led you to pursue a career in medicine?
My decision to pursue medicine is multifactorial, but one of my biggest influences is the milieu I was raised in. I grew up in a neighborhood where access to healthcare was very often limited. I've always envisioned myself working in a neighborhood such as my own, serving those in need of care and creating programs that increase access and health outcomes. I remain steadfast to this goal as a physician, and I hope my career will allow me to serve as both a healer and an advocate to my patients at all levels.
What are your goals after you complete residency? Where do you see yourself?
Unsure! I am very open-minded right now as I work through the different services of intern year. For instance, I have thoroughly enjoyed working in the Hospitalist Service at the VA but my CCU block was extremely challenging and fun. I hope to be more differentiated as I go through more experiences.
Why did you choose Yale IMed for your residency?
Being from a tight knit family and community in Brooklyn, I always gravitate towards places where I feel that I will be part of a family. Yale was it for me. Between our wonderful residents and program director, who gets to know us on a personal level, I was sold!
Describe your experience at Yale IMed in 3 words.
Absolutely Love It
What is your fondest memory at Yale thus far?
It’s still early in the year, but really spending some downtime in the CCU with my senior. We laughed together, shared memes and had some great meals--I was introduced to Poke!
Who has had the greatest influence on you, and why?
I have so many great influences for so many different reasons that I feel that it would be a disservice to only name one person. Shout out to all my friends, family and mentors who got me to where I am today.
If you could say anything to your younger self, what would you say?
There are many road bumps on the road to medicine, but keep on keeping on! The satisfaction you feel from making a difference in the life of another human being is completely worth it.
What's a fun fact about you?
I love to draw! I don't think I take advantage of it enough. It is both cathartic and provides me with a freedom of expression.
What is one piece of advice you'd give someone who is applying for residency?
Ask candid questions of the residents and don't be shy! This is a place where you are going to spend 3+ years of life so it’s okay to get the cold, hard facts. Get to know the dynamics of the residents and the pros/cons of the program. This is especially crucial with interview season changing to a more virtual format.
The Department of Internal Medicine at Yale is among the nation's premier departments, bringing together an elite cadre of clinicians, investigators and educators in one of the world's top medical schools. To learn more, visit Internal Medicine.