Growing up, conversations with Dr. Rachel Green’s parents often turned to big-picture questions such as what makes people human. The nervous system was a key part of the answer for Dr. Green, who fell in love with the problem-solving and patient-care aspects of neurology, solidifying her decision to pursue that field.

Rachel Green, M.D.

What this award means: Neurology is one of the most exciting fields of medicine. To be acknowledged as a participant in this field is such an honor and truly spurs me on to become the best neurologist I can be.

Mentor comment: Rachel did a good job on the inpatient consult neurology service. She was hardworking and interacted well with the patients and team. She will make a very good neurologist if she decides to pursue this specialty.– Meredith Bryarly, M.D., Assistant Professor of Neurology

Background and family: I grew up in a multicultural home in Dallas – my mother is an immigrant from Malaysia, and my father is from Kansas City, Missouri. I was home-schooled for most of my life so that my family had the flexibility to travel to Malaysia to see relatives. I met my husband here in Dallas.

What led to your career path: My dad is a philosophy professor, so as I was growing up, we would have conversations around the dinner table about questions such as “what makes people human?” From a biological perspective, the nervous system was always on my mind as a part of us that makes us unique, and I have always been intrigued by it. In college, I participated in the Special Olympics program. I was struck by the impact of neurological disease and drawn to helping these individuals either regain function or cope with their limitations.

College: I majored in biology, chemistry, and psychology at Southern Methodist University. I was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Psi Chi Psychology Honor Society and won academic awards from the biology and chemistry departments.

UTSW activities: I served in leadership roles with the Student Interest Groups in neurology and psychiatry. I also volunteered with the student-run free clinic and health fair and served as a Colleges peer mentor and a peer advocate with Student Wellness and Counseling.

Surprising fact: I was a musician for many years. I took 11 years of piano lessons and went to an arts magnet high school in downtown Dallas for voice, where I competed in choir competitions and even made state a couple of years!

Ultimate career goal: My goal is to use the tools I’ve been given to humbly yet confidently provide the best care I can to my patients with knowledge, respect, and a good bedside manner.

Future plans: After neurology residency, I plan to spend most of my career as a clinical physician and neurologist. I will be beginning my neurology residency at Vanderbilt University in Nashville this summer. I am planning to complete a fellowship in neuroimmunology and am also interested in academic medicine, given my love for teaching.

About the award: This award is presented to a graduating medical student who has promising career potential in neurology as determined by faculty and residents.