Once a software engineer for Microsoft, Dr. Mike Bosh underwent a significant career change when his father passed away. This prompted him to reexamine his life. He landed in medical school with new goals that included a desire to treat the underserved. Now his passion lies in family medicine, and his focus has shifted from bits to bedside.

Mike Bosh, M.D

What the Leadership Award means: I am grateful for the experience being the Class co-President. The award serves as a reminder that leadership isn’t always about having many titles; it can manifest in various ways. Perhaps my approach to leadership is more subtle – leading by example, supporting others, and fostering collaboration. The award encourages me to continue contributing positively to those around me, regardless of where my journey takes me.

Mentor comment: Mike brought years of experience as a software engineer, which allowed him an uncommon maturity and ability to see the big picture. These skills, along with his humble, caring nature, contributed to his strong leadership style, problem-solving, and ability to work productively to serve the needs of his class and advocate for enhancements in both the educational offerings and in improving the learning environment. – Angela Mihalic, M.D., Dean of Medical Students and Associate Dean for Student Affairs

What the Ross Award means: The faculty in the Department of Family and Community Medicine have been phenomenal mentors throughout my time at UT Southwestern. Their recognition of my dedication to patient care, clinical skills, and community service is incredibly humbling.

Mentor comment: Mike performed very well in his Rural Family Medicine Clerkship, learning about full-spectrum medicine in a small town. Mike is quietly excellent and highly regarded by his peers and his faculty and will undoubtedly be loved and respected by his future family medicine patients. – Tamara McGregor, M.D., Associate Professor of Family and Community Medicine and Internal Medicine

Background and family: I was born and raised in a small town in China, and my family immigrated to the United States while I was in middle school. It was tough being the new kid who did not speak English, but looking back, I am deeply grateful for the sacrifices that my parents had made.

What led to your career path: I once thrived as a software engineer at Microsoft. However, my dad passed away suddenly and unexpectedly, forcing me to have a new perspective in life. I took my time to figure out what I wanted to be when I grew up, what I truly desired. Medicine was a calling that defied logic, and my career shifted from bits to bedside. In this new chapter, I am humbled by the lives I touch and the impact I have as a physician, and I hope to have a fulfilling career despite the detours.

College: I graduated from Case Western Reserve University with dual degrees in biomedical engineering and business management. More than a decade later, I attended my local college to refresh my prerequisites for medical school and found that I was eager to be in the classroom again, even if it was organic chemistry.

UTSW activities: I served as the co-President for the Class of 2024, and I was actively involved with the Family Medicine Interest Group.

Surprising fact: I might not look like it, but I am the oldest person in the class. Amid the fresh college graduates, there I was, more than a decade beyond my own college days. I do have to often remind myself that lifelong learning knows no age limit.

Future plans: As a future family medicine physician, my heart is set on practicing in underserved communities. I envision myself working closely with families, understanding their unique needs, and providing comprehensive care. Whether it’s in rural areas, inner cities, or regions lacking access to health care, I hope to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.

About the award: The Leadership Award annually goes to one or more student officers of the graduation class and includes a $1,000 award. Named after the Chair of Family and Community Medicine at UT Southwestern from 1984 to 1993, the Ross Award includes a $1,000 scholarship from the Dallas Chapter of the Texas Academy of Family Physicians Foundation.