UCLA Journal of Radiation Oncology January 1, 2022 - Flipbook - Page 17
UCLA RADIATION ONCOLOGY JOURNAL
Q: Although matching is a two-way street,
there are many Radiation Oncology
programs. Why did you pursue the UCLA
Radiation Oncology Residency Program?
background in computer science and my
medical experience into valuable projects. I
also hope to have the opportunity to mentor
younger medical students, particularly
those interested in Radiation Oncology or
integrating research and medicine. ☐
B: I specifically wanted to match at UCLA
because of the commitment the faculty
demonstrated to training the next generation
of Radiation Oncologists and the diversity
of training available at UCLA. With several
different types of LINACs, you have the
ability to select the best treatment machine
for your patient, not to mention the strong
brachytherapy program at UCLA that allows
for unique training. Living in Los Angeles
(and having the time to enjoy being in such an
amazing city) has also been an added benefit!
Q: Did COVID-19 have an impact your first
year as a resident?
B: Definitely. It has a strong influence on both
my training and patient interactions. Like
most interns last year, I was asked to care for
inpatient COVID patients, which provided
a unique opportunity to experience the
implementation of public health measures,
close integration of research to develop
understanding and then how that impacted
patient care, as well as how to care for patients
under challenging circumstances. I felt
this helped me to develop compassion and
improved communication skills with patients
and their families, particularly when they were
only allowed minimal contact. As a resident,
it also changed the training experience and
the ability to develop relationships with my
co-residents. It forced us to take precautions
and have limited physical contact, but also
helped us to bond over this shared challenging
experience.
Q: What endeavors, beyond your rotations,
do you hope to throw yourself behind while
in the UCLA RO Residency Program.
B: I am excitedly looking to develop several
research projects and hope to integrate my
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