Le Nguyen
Hometown: Centreville, VA
Education: The George Washington University
MD Mentor: Dr. Mario Goessl
Staff Mentors: Sara Olson and Jennifer Nguyen
Project: Impact on 2nd prosthesis choice on early surgical aortic bioprosthetic failure
How did you hear about the MHIF internship and why did you want to participate?
I came across the MHIF while searching for a summer clinical internship program. The moment I discovered the internship program at the MHIF and what it has to offer, I was immediately impressed and enticed. In addition to working alongside nationally renowned physician researchers on pioneering cutting-edge clinical studies that potentially inform advanced medical treatments for complicated cardiovascular diseases, MHIF interns are given the opportunity to learn more about the field of cardiology through clinical shadowing and field trips and to apply the acquired knowledge from those experience to further their research projects. One of the most attractive aspects of the program is its emphasis on continuous engagement in discussions and activities that encourage students to integrate analytical reasoning and communication skills into their research endeavors. This level of engagement is essential to my personal growth and future career as a passionate physician.
What sparked your interest in the field of research, medicine and cardiology?
During my formative years, I experienced a profound loss of a dear family member due to a preventable cardiovascular disease, which left an irreplaceable void within my family. Growing up, I witnessed first-hand the impacts of healthcare on my own well-being and that of those around me. This motivated me to delve into the field of medicine during my high school and college years. Through my experience shadowing doctors from various specialties and working as an ED medical scribe at a local hospital, I gained invaluable insights into the vital role physicians play in the lives of patients and their families. These experiences also exposed me to the intricate complexities of medicine and the unique challenges within our healthcare system. In my eyes, translational research stands as a crucial component of effective patient care. Its potential to push the boundaries of modern medical practice and redefine what is achievable in the fight against debilitating diseases and disorders is truly remarkable. Recognizing this, I sought an internship at the MIHF to immerse myself in the holistic aspects and profound effects of cardiology. Moreover, I aim to further my understanding of how patient experiences can inform groundbreaking advancements in transformative clinical research.
What is your desired career in medicine?
Even though I had my mind set on neurosurgery when I became interested in medicine, I still find my desired medical career shifting from time to time. Through shadowing and other involvement in different aspects of healthcare, I have also found interest in several other specialties, including cardiothoracic surgery, pediatrics, pediatric cardiothoracic surgery, and pediatric neurosurgery. To me, it does not matter what specialty I end up with. What is more important is the fact that I will be able to use my knowledge and passion to save lives and advocate for the health of others as a compassionate doctor.
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
I look forward to working closely with my physician and staff mentors on research projects and exploring the interconnection between patient care and clinical research at the MIHF. I am also excited about having the opportunity to connect and bond with other fellow interns through different activities that we are going to do together.
What do you hope to gain from this experience?
From this experience, I hope to expand my understanding of research and see for myself the significance of clinical studies in improving individual health and the health of the community. I also look forward to gaining insights into the joys and challenges of a physician-scientist as well as learning about how they manage to balance research with their practice.
What are your plans after the summer?
After the summer, I plan to return to finish my last two years of undergrad at GWU and complete my bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. I plan to apply for medical school during my senior year without taking a gap year. In addition, I will continue to cultivate my passion for poetry and hone my skills as a creative writer.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am a poetry enthusiast and a writer. My dream is to become a part-time poet and use poetry to heal people alongside medicine. This is why I am currently minoring in creative writing with an emphasis on poetry in college.
