Dr. Harini Suresh could have been a classical musician but chose medicine instead. In college, she majored in oboe performance, with a minor in chemistry that ultimately won over as she pursued medical school. As a first-generation Indian American, she has had one foot in each culture and learned to appreciate diversity – attributes that will serve her well in the field of psychiatry.

Dr. Harini Suresh

What this award means: “Even before deciding on psychiatry, I tried to approach patients with humility and empathy, seeking to understand where they come from and what makes them who they are. Psychiatry lends itself to this kind of exploration and understanding of patients on a very human level. I feel honored and humbled to be recognized for my efforts and hope to continue carrying them forward to best help my patients.”

Mentor comment: “Harini is an excellent student, interested both in clinical care and research. Receiving this award speaks to the work she has done and our belief in her potential to contribute to the field of psychiatry.” – Dr. Lia Thomas, Associate Professor of Psychiatry

Background and family: “My parents were born in India and immigrated to the U.S. in the 1990s. I was born in Pennsylvania, and my family moved to Dallas soon after. My brother became the first doctor in the family – he’s currently an ENT resident at Harvard. My parents both got their master’s degrees in Dallas and work in tech.”

What led to your career path: “I was incredibly steeped in the arts – music and dance – growing up. I’ve always loved the balance of creativity with science. The dichotomy has taught me intangible things aren’t necessarily less real/significant and that most things in life aren’t black and white – both important principles in the field of psychiatry. My own cultural background drives me to seek to understand others’ cultures and work to destigmatize and promote mental health in all communities.”

UTSW activities: “I received an Albert Schweitzer Fellowship, which allowed me to carry out a yearlong service project planning and executing a health literacy program for female veterans. I also was active with the Psychiatry Diversity & Inclusion Education Committee and served as a PRE+OP Orientation Committee member, peer mentor, HPREP mentor, and volunteer at the Agape Clinic.”

Surprising fact: “I started running long distances in college as a way to deal with stress: I got hooked on the endorphins and ended up running the Nashville marathon my senior year! I’ve also tried bungee jumping, parasailing, surfing, skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.”

Future plans: “I plan to train in child and adolescent psychiatry to treat patients ages 16 to 25. I also want to improve the accessibility and quality of psychiatric care on college campuses – an especially vulnerable place for students as they navigate being away from home for the first time. Lastly, I hope to continue clinical research in adolescent psychiatry to translate new and innovative approaches to patient care.”

About the award: The Psychiatric Physicians Award honors a student for excellent work in psychiatry and mental health.