I entered college dreaming of a career in field biology. However, the prestige of more technical life sciences attracted me, and I entered a graduate program in biophysics. When the neuroscience laboratory work required by my thesis research proved isolating and frustrating, I grew discouraged. Around the same time, I endured a painful breakup and lost a beloved grandfather.
In the midst of my first major depression, I saw a therapist who thought medical school would be more satisfying for me. I took his advice and—eventually—became a surgeon.
Here’s a list of my major educational programs:
- BA, Department of Zoology, University of California, Berkeley
- MA, Department of Biophysics, University of California, Berkeley
- MD School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco
- Internal Medicine Internship, New York Medical College
- Ophthalmology Residency, University of California, San Francisco
- Ocular Oncology Fellowship, University of California, San Francisco
- Ocular Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship, University of California, San Francisco
I’ve also completed a variety of body-mind-spirit programs, including the following:
- Medical Acupuncture Training, Helms Medical Institute, Berkeley CA
- Dynamic Mindfulness / Yoga Teacher Training, Niroga Institute, Oakland CA
- Spiritual Direction Training, Interfaith Chaplaincy Institute,Berkeley CA
- Hospice Training, Zen Caregiving Project, San Francisco CA