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Firas Hougeir, M.D.
Program: Dermatology Residency, PGY-3, Mayo Clinic in Arizona
Hometown: Marseille, France
Medical School: Mayo Medical School, Mayo Clinic College of
Medicine
What led you to medicine?
"I've always been interested in the international perspective, and in the life sciences. I was born in Algeria, and grew up in Marseille, France, before we moved to the United States when I was 17. Right at the time I was considering college and graduate school, in 1994, the Rwandan massacres occurred. I felt deeply affected by this. I guess I realized more fully how very bad things can happen in life and I saw medicine as a way that I could help the most."
What stands out the most for you about medical training at Mayo Clinic?
"Having attended Mayo Medical School, I experienced firsthand the amazing professionalism and collegiality that is practiced among all staff members and extended to students. There are no special coats to differentiate students and trainees from staff members. We all wear the same coats, or simply business suits, and I think this really shows the principles of Mayo Clinic and its philosophy about teaching - teamwork, collegiality and collaboration. It says that you are part of the team."
How does residency training at Mayo Clinic boost your interests?
"There are many opportunities to practice medicine in a variety of environments - with state-of-the-art equipment and resources, and also in very challenging environments in the community or through the Mayo International Health Program. Both are very important learning experiences."
"This year I am planning to apply for a rotation in Ensenada, Mexico, through the Mayo International Health Program, which supports residents who want to do rotations in underserved areas throughout the world. We also get to accompany one of our teachers to provide care in a free clinic on the Mexican border, which he does several times a year. These are all tremendous learning experiences for me."
"There are plenty of research projects one can get involved in or initiate. If you want to participate, they want to have you. There is comprehensive publication support, travel assistance for presenting your research at national conferences and infinite library resources."
What are some of your interests outside of medicine and what's
it like living in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area?
"The metro Phoenix area is full of possibilities to do things outside of medicine. I play soccer and racquetball when I can and enjoy hiking in the many preserves that are available in and around Phoenix. The nightlife here is also wonderful when you have time to enjoy it. There are great restaurants and clubs as well as opportunities to take evening classes at one of the many colleges."
What are your plans after residency training?
"I want to practice in the Phoenix area for a home base, but also travel frequently internationally to practice in underserved areas. I don't see medicine as an exact science - I think there are always many ways to approach a disease or a need depending on the circumstances and resources. I think we can learn so much from other cultures and environments."
Any other personal insights you want to share with others considering a residency program?
"Medicine is challenging but so rewarding. We all have doubts and tough days. But, honestly, just one thankful patient makes it all worthwhile, and we have quite a few of these here."
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