Chandan Saini

Chandan as a medical student

Chandan as a child

• A few basic facts about me:

  I’m currently a medical student at Midwestern University - Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine.

• What kind of identities do you inhabit?

  Asian-Indian American, nature-lover, current ukulele learner, photographer, wine-enthusiast, basketball-enthusiast, former competitive Bhangra dancer, former ski patroller, Phoenix native

• The path to medicine is not easy. Can you tell us why you decided to pursue it?

  I liked that science is continuously trying to expand and improve on its knowledge base. I liked that medicine was able to use science to be a force for good and social change.

• Can you describe a challenging moment in medicine that made you rethink your career path?

  "The first couple years of medical school were really challenging. I took a gap year to be a professional dancer so it was really difficult to suddenly switch to not only being a student, but also being a medical student. I found it difficult to reorient myself, especially when it felt like many of my classmates already had it together. I worked through that by having faith in myself, trusting the process, and not believing the self doubt that would creep into my mind.

  (Editors' note: Imposter syndrome during medical school is very common! Some surveys say >95% of medical students experience imposter syndrome).

• Why are you interested in this organization? Why equity and PM&R?

  I'm interested in learning more about disparities in healthcare and in PM&R, and how to advocate for patients.

• Can you tell us a little bit of your aspirations - either for your career or for the field of medicine (if you’re a medical student?)

  I am still trying to figure out which field of PM&R I would like to specialize in, but I know I would like to help educate medical students and residents in the future.

• Where can we find you on social media?

  Twitter

Last updated 03/2022