Dr. Syed Kazim Rizvi: Dr. Richard Mays Smith Award
Born in Pakistan, Dr. Syed Kazim Rizvi moved to America with his family in 2002 and witnessed firsthand how inequities can affect one’s health. His curiosity about the human body and ambition led him to medicine, with a particular interest in empowering patients through thoughtful, patient-focused care.
What this award means: “It is validating to know that your hard work is appreciated and valuable. It gives you additional motivation to continue to build your vision. I am honored to be chosen for this award.”
Mentor comment: “Everything about Syed is praiseworthy – his journey to medicine, his grateful spirit, his respectful advocacy, his infectious passion. He epitomizes the student who pushes you to be a better teacher and an even better physician. Syed, an inducted member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society, prioritizes assisting patients with social determinants of health on both a community and individual level. With an interest and growing expertise in information technology, Syed has many skills that will make him an asset to our residency program here at UT Southwestern.” – Dr. Reeni Abraham, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine
Background and family: “I was born in Karachi, Pakistan. I moved to Houston, Texas, in 2002 with my family and went to college at UT Austin.”
What led to your career path: “Coming from a humble background, I saw firsthand how inequities can dictate your health. Due to the resilience of my parents and their tireless nature, I was able to empower myself through education to be where I am today. My curious nature and fascination with the human body inevitably led me to medicine. I hope to use my newfound opportunity as an internal medicine physician to fight the inequities that plague our patients and to empower them through thoughtful, patient-centric care, research into socioeconomic determinants of health, and advocacy for health policies and systems that uplift our most vulnerable.”
UTSW activities: “I served as co-President of Student Patient Advocates for the Rights of Our Communities (SPARC), Manager of the Agape Clinic, and Committee Chair of the Gold Humanism Honor Society.”
Surprising fact: “I love cars! I think working on cars is very similar to the work of a physician, and in another life, I would have been a mechanic!”
Future plans: “I am fortunate to have matched at UTSW in internal medicine. I hope to continue to pursue patient advocacy in all realms – including research, health policies, and education.”
About the award: The award is given annually to one or more graduating medical students who excel academically during clinical rotations and exhibit an interest in and compassion for patients.