
Rakhee K. Bhayani
Associate Professor of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine
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Never give up on your dreams. If you have a passion for a career in STEM, pursue it.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
I am an internal medicine physician working closely with residents and medical students serving patients in an under-resourced area. I am passionate about resident wellness and deliver interactive sessions covering varying topics within the wellness arena. I am a strong proponent of women in medicine and established a professional development initiative focused on providing skill-building workshops and networking opportunities for the physicians in the department of medicine.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD?
I was drawn to science and math growing up so I pursued Biomedical engineering in my undergraduate studies. After completing medical school, I realized I enjoyed applying broad scientific knowledge and clinical expertise in caring for patients with multi-systemic disease processes. Working in an academic institution has allowed me to care for patients while train the next generation of physicians.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT & THINK, "I WISH YOUNGER ME WOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WAS POSSIBLE?"
I don’t think younger me would have thought I’d be in a leadership position promoting the advancement of women in medicine. Looking back, I know I had the qualities of a leader, so I’m thankful for the mentors and sponsors along the way that have allowed me to thrive. Believe in yourself and surround yourself with others that believe in you as well.
WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN STEM?
There are so many aspect of my career I love. On a daily basis, I am using critical thinking skills to provide care for patients. I am training our next generation of physicians and fostering their love of medicine. Through my professional development initiative, I can provide opportunities for women to come together and share experiences and provide support.
BEST ADVICE FOR NEXT GENERATION?
Never give up on your dreams. If you have a passion for a career in STEM, pursue it. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and ask for help. Develop your support network and use them when needed. Believe in yourself! You can do it!
INSPO / FUN FACT
“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” -Winston S. Churchill