Sydney Peng
Hometown: Arden Hills, MN
Education: University of Minnesota Twin Cities
MD Mentor: Dr. Manos Brilakis
Staff Mentors: Thanasis Rempakos, Olga Mastrodemos, and Bavana Rangan
Project: Impact of Thrombectomy on the Outcomes of Patients with Coronary Thrombus
How did you hear about the MHIF internship and why did you want to participate?
I first heard about the MHIF internship from a previous intern who had described his experience to be very valuable and rewarding. I was particularly drawn to the program’s focus on clinical research, since I wanted to learn more about how research can be directly applied within clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.
What sparked your interest in the field of research, medicine and cardiology?
My interest in research first stemmed from my appreciation for the scientific process during a research project I conducted with a faculty mentor at the Lillehei Heart Institute. At every step of the way, one question could steer me towards never-ending discoveries of new topics to be explored. Later on, as I volunteered in the emergency department, I felt inspired by the physicians’ vast medical knowledge and unwavering initiative to help patients suffering from cardiac arrest. I aspire to also become a physician who can lead at the frontline in making judgements about the best course of actions for a patient.
What is your desired career in medicine?
I think it’s a little early for me to decide on a certain specialty, but I have dreamed of becoming a physician who can benefit my local community.
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
I am very eager to learn more about the field of cardiology and to elucidate trends or patterns found in patient populations that are most affected by cardiac conditions. I am also excited to try conducting clinical research and to take advantage of the internship’s vast amount of shadowing opportunities to better understand the in-and-out’s of what it’s like to be a physician across many disciplines in cardiovascular medicine.
What do you hope to gain from this experience?
From this experience, I hope that I can broaden my research skill set and learn how research and medicine intersect to translate directly into better treatments and preventions for patients. I also hope to develop strong networks with my physician and faculty mentors to gain further insights into practicing medicine in the field of cardiology.
What are your plans after the summer?
After this summer, I will start my junior year at the University of Minnesota.
What is a fun fact about you?
I am an avid nerf war player against my little twin brother and sister! Albeit, no matter how hard I try, I can never seem to win against them.
