Dr. Lauren Shaffer: Herbert S. Salomon, M.D., Class of 1967, Memorial Scholarship Award
Medicine runs in Dr. Lauren Shaffer’s family. Both her parents are physicians, while her three brothers are pursuing careers in science. She found her niche with internal medicine, which balances the scientific and humanistic aspects of health care.
What this award means: “I am honored to receive this award in honor of Dr. Salomon, who demonstrated immense dedication to the field of medicine while simultaneously battling an untreatable cancer. This award inspires the type of physician I hope to be in the future: one with an unwavering commitment to patients, ongoing medical education, and research pursuits.”
Mentor comment: “Lauren has a quiet confidence and competence that engenders trust with all who work with her. She has sought experiences to help her expand her understanding of medicine and challenge her biases, as shown through her study of medical anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania. Having personally witnessed her gifts at the bedside, I can attest that Lauren will be an exceptional physician.” – Dr. Reeni Abraham, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine
Background and family: “I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, with my parents and three brothers. Both of my parents are physicians: My mother is a pulmonary critical care specialist and my father is a gastroenterologist. All three of my brothers are also pursuing careers in science.”
What led to your career path: “After majoring in anthropology in college, I was very interested in a medical career that would be intellectually stimulating but would also foster human connection. During my clinical rotations, I found that internal medicine provided the ideal balance between the scientific and humanistic aspects of patient care. While I am excited by the investigative work involved in diagnosing and managing a patient’s illness, I truly love the opportunity to listen and advocate for patients.”
UTSW activities: “I was manager of The Monday Clinic and have been an active participant in United to Serve’s annual Carnaval de Salud health fair. I served as an orientation leader for incoming medical students and as a mentor for high school students interested in the sciences. I have also been involved in research on pulmonary diseases.”
Surprising fact: “I grew up playing the piano since the age of 5. It has provided me with a wonderful stress outlet, as well as given me a close community of fellow piano players.”
Future plans: “I am thrilled to be starting my internal medicine residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania this summer. While I have an interest in pulmonary and critical care medicine, I am excited to explore the vast array of clinical opportunities before deciding my future career.”
About the award: The award recognizes a UT Southwestern medical student who demonstrates excellence in internal medicine. It is named after Dr. Herbert Salomon, who graduated from UT Southwestern in 1967 and died shortly after graduation.