Rithu Srikantha
Hometown: Iowa City, Iowa
Residency Match: Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York
Specialty: Dermatology
Q: How did you choose your specialty?
A: After rotating in the dermatology department during third year, I fell in love with the patient population, the broad spectrum of pathology, and the enthusiasm of the faculty.
Q: What experiences outside the curriculum greatly enhanced your medical education?
A: I participated in research throughout medical school, and this was a very important component of my education. Medical students are not exposed to many aspects of dermatology in the curriculum, so I explored the field further through research. I also had the opportunity to serve on the Medical School Admissions Committee, which was an incredibly rewarding experience where I could make an impact.
Q: Is there someone who was especially helpful in guiding and mentoring you?
A: I was lucky to have many mentors throughout medical school who were influential to my success. In particular, I worked closely with Dr. Nkanyezi Ferguson in the Department of Dermatology. With her guidance, I developed a strong interest in ethnic skin dermatology and I plan to continue working in this field throughout my career.
Q: What was the most rewarding part of your CCOM experience?
A: The friends I made here who will be my lifelong support system.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming medical students?
A: Keep an open mind and try not to be too hard on yourself.