Meet Abdelrahman Abushouk, MD, from Cairo, Egypt. He attended Ain Shams University, and is a PGY-2 in the Traditional Internal Medicine Residency Program.
What led you to pursue a career in medicine?
Growing up, I had a supportive family that encouraged me to explore different fields. Early on, I delved into the works of luminary Arab physicians and scholars, such as Abu Bakr al-Razi, Ibn al-Nafis, and Ibn Sina “Avicenna,” marveling at how their breakthroughs continue to shape modern medicine. I was also fortunate to be exposed to several members of my family who were either scholars in diverse disciplines or engaged in community service. I realized that medicine can uniquely allow me to combine my interests in helping people and doing science to tackle unsolved problems.
What are your goals after you complete internal medicine residency? Where do you see yourself?
I aspire to become a clinician-scientist, specializing in cardiovascular medicine. I find immense fulfillment in helping patients with cardiovascular disease feel better and enjoy a better quality of life. I have recently come to understand that “better” means something different to every patient, and I strive to embody this understanding in my practice as a physician. On the research front, If I can lead one or two well-designed clinical studies that influence the practice of cardiology, this would be my lasting and meaningful contribution to the world.
Why did you choose Yale for your internal medicine residency?
I fell in love with Yale during the pre-interview open houses. I felt that the residents really loved the program and that they were actively involved in leading it. During the interview process, everyone was warm and welcoming. I felt that I belong here and that my diverse background and medical education will be appreciated. It goes without saying as well that Yale has a good balance of robust clinical training and rigorous academics. The opportunities we have here are essentially limitless.
Describe your experience at Yale IMed in 3 words.
Nurturing, collegial, and challenging (in a good way!).
What is your fondest memory at Yale thus far?
Hard to pick, but a recent one stands out. During a busy day on the oncology service, the palliative care attending I consulted with stopped by our charting room to thank me for paying close attention to my patient’s pain. He said, “Pain is often missed because it is not something you see. And the best part is when you treat someone’s pain, you walk into their room the next morning and they smile at you!” I do believe that proper pain management can change the whole disease course.
Who has had the greatest influence on you, and why?
My family–my parents and my wife–have had the greatest influence on me. They have consistently offered me unwavering support and invaluable guidance, for which I am eternally grateful. In addition, I have been fortunate to work with incredible mentors over the years who shaped my approach to patient care, work ethic, and scientific interests, such as Dr. Samir Kapadia at the Cleveland Clinic and Dr. Mohamed Abdel-Daim in Egypt.
If you could say anything to your younger self, what would you say?
Stay focused on the present. Do not worry too much about the uncertainties of the future.
What is one piece of advice you'd give someone who is applying for internal medicine residency?
Know what you want in life and choose a program that helps you achieve it. Be goal-oriented and plan your efforts strategically. Prioritize your happiness and the happiness of those you care about in your decision; thriving is challenging without happiness.
What's a fun fact about you?
If I weren't a doctor, I'd likely be a chef—much to my wife's delight. I'm always tinkering with new recipes, and over time, I've whipped up some pretty tasty originals in the kitchen.
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 about the department, visit Internal Medicine.