Meet Brandon Lee from Chicago, Illinois. He attended The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, and is a PGY-1 in the Traditional Internal Medicine Residency Program.
What led you to pursue a career in medicine?![]()
I actually thought I would pursue a career in journalism, math, or chemistry in college. That all changed when one weekend, my friend called out sick from a volunteer shift at the Children’s Hospital, and I filled in for them. I loved it so much that I kept going back! My experience as a Children’s Hospital volunteer showed me how basic science can be used to affect and save human lives through the art of medicine. Furthermore, how much excellent patient care is contingent on cultivating trusting and fulfilling relationships with the patients you care for. That’s how I decided medicine was the career for me!
What are your goals after you complete residency? Where do you see yourself?
I am currently enrolled in the Physician-Scientist Training Program under the Section of Infectious Disease at Yale. After completing my PGY-2 year, I will the pursue a fellowship in Infectious Disease at our institution. I hope to use my skills from my graduate school training to study how the human immune system and microbes co-exist. To me, a career in medicine will involve both utilizing clinical and research skills to benefit patient care.
Why did you choose Yale IMed for your residency?
I took a chance on a “gut feeling” that Yale IMed as the place for me. I knew that I would push myself as hard as I could during my training years. So, I wanted a program that encouraged me to do all I could but also provided me the support to keep my wellness in mind. The clinical training, research opportunities, community kindness and overall program culture are unparalleled here and I’m extremely happy I chose Yale Internal Medicine.
Describe your experience at Yale IMed in 3 words.
Growing, inspiring, rewarding
What is your fondest memory at Yale thus far?
On May 16th, 2021, the CDC published their updated vaccinated person’s guidelines to allow fully vaccinated personnel to resume activities without masks or physical distancing. Soon after, I organized an independent gathering outdoors for the interns and residents. It was heartwarming to see so many colleagues meet for the first time despite already working in the same institution for a whole year. Watching the community come closer right in front of me was a truly inspiring moment for me.
Who has had the greatest influence on you, and why?
My parents are my life role models. I aspire to always have the intellectual curiosity of my father and the kind heart of my mother.
If you could say anything to your younger self, what would you say?
Don’t be afraid to do what you love most – it will make you most happy.
What's a fun fact about you?
I was on my middle school’s volleyball team which traveled across Asia to compete in international tournaments. I remember that within 1 month, I traveled to over 4 different countries for various competitions!
What is one piece of advice you'd give someone who is applying for residency?
You will make it no matter where you go! Do your best and take care of those you love most!
What have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments since the beginning of the pandemic?
My biggest challenge is not seeing my family for over 2 years. I think my great accomplishment has been finding various ways to help colleagues meet each other in safe ways to foster as much community bonding as possible!
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.