June 2024
Ali Jardaneh, MD
Now that chief year is coming to an end, what are a few words you would use to describe your experience?
Residency is a like being in a crucible. With the constant learning from trials and tribulations, maintaining a dedication to education, having a strong work ethic, embracing a positive attitude, and trusting in the well-vetted residency system under supportive leadership, I feel I have emerged stronger than ever to continue my surgical career in medicine.
What was the most challenging part of residency at VUMC? What about most rewarding?
One of the greatest challenges of residency is working the tirelessly long hours. This very challenge, however, proved to be the most rewarding. The harder you work, the more you learn, which is the primary goal of residency. Knowing patients have entrusted you with their health, and being able to directly intervene to help them, are the most rewarding aspects of medicine.
What lessons have you learned outside of medicine during the past 5 years that you'll carry through life?
It was my years of work as a biomedical engineer, prior to medical school, that piqued my interest in clinical medicine. Follow your passion, surround yourself with supportive people, maintain your focus, and you will succeed in whatever your goals might be.
Favorite OR memory over the last 5 years?
I don't know if I can choose just one! It doesn't come up that often but being able to operate with my co-chiefs this years has been a lot of fun. I think one of the best things about chief year has been being able to focus on operating and seeing that growth over the weeks and months.
What will you miss most?
I will miss the many great people I've met here at Vanderbilt and in Nashville.
Any fun plans post residency pre work?
I hope to do some international traveling with my family and friends.
What was your favorite urology case going into residency? Is it still the same, if not what did it change to?
With an engineering background, I came into residency with an interest in using innovative surgical devices. Integrating these devices into medicine not only enhances surgery but also fosters adaptability in an ever-changing medical landscape. Being skilled in the use of these devices, including robotics, I am equipped to navigate complex surgeries shaping the future of my surgical practice. Any opportunity to use these devices in surgery are amongst my favorite cases.
What advice would you give to the brand-new interns about the next 5 years?
Life (as with residency) will have its ups and downs. Approach each day with humility and a willingness to learn. Embrace challenges and be sure to take care of your physical and mental well-being. Trust in the system and in Vanderbilt's strong leadership. With hard work and dedication, you will be successful. I wish you all the best!
What is your favorite OR memory over the past 5 years?
There are so many great OR memories; I cannot name just one. I have wonderful memories operating with each and every surgeon.
What is your favorite social memory over the past 5 years?
One of my favorite social memories was attending a co-resident's wedding. In addition to it being a beautiful event, it was also a great time bonding with my fellow residents outside of the hospital.
What are some things on your Tennessee bucket list you want to cross off before moving?
One of the last things on my bucket list was to go to Dollywood, which I did a few months ago with some friends...thrilling rides, scrumptious cinnamon bread, great company, and not enough fried green tomatoes!
If you could describe Vandy urology residency in three words which ones would you pick?
Simply the best!
What will you miss most about Nashville?
I'll miss the live music, strolls in Centennial Park, Nashville Hot Chicken, and Hatty B's Banana Pudding.
What are you most excited about for your new chapter?
I am most excited to continue doing what I love, practicing medicine, and being in an even stronger position to help people using what I've learned through my years at Vanderbilt.
Interview conducted by Sanam Ladi-Seyedian, MD