Brian Trieu

Brian Trieu

Brian Trieu, Class of 2024 (MD/PhD incoming class of 2015)

Undergraduate school attended and major

University of California, Irvine; Developmental and Cell Biology major

Why did you choose the University of Minnesota Medical School and what do you like about it?

I was seeking an institution that offered a high standard of training. Being the only medical school in the Twin Cities I knew UMN could offer diverse, comprehensive, and quality training regardless of whatever medical specialty I wanted to pursue. More importantly, as a native Californian, I wanted to train in an inclusive and equitable environment that could support a student who had no prior ties to Minnesota. From interview day until revisit, the sense of community and camaraderie was evident, and the positive energy from students and faculty was invigorating. I am delighted to say that these initial impressions have held and the community at UMN has enabled me to establish life-long colleagues and friendships.

What would you change (areas of development) about the University of Minnesota Medical School?

Diversity, equity, and inclusion are complex topics in an ever-changing context. As an institution tasked with training future leaders in medicine, UMN medical school should be at the epicenter of change to address these topics. Further empowering the voices of diverse students and faculty can enable impactful change and the dismantling of structural racism present in medicine.

What is the relationship between the students and the surrounding community?

Students have the opportunity to integrate into the surrounding communities, whether it’s through the plethora of clinical training sites, volunteering programs, community outreach, or advocacy groups (local to national). One of the striking attributes of UMN medical school is the freedom given to students to take initiative to open dialogue and establish connections with the diverse communities that make up the Twin Cities.

Have you participated in any student organizations? If so, why did you select those organizations and what has been your experience?

I participated in and was an elected officer for the Student National Medical Association (SNMA). I joined because the mission and values of SNMA closely aligns with my own motivations as a medical student and future physician. Within the UMN SNMA chapter I found diverse and like-minded colleagues united by similar goals and supported by each other.

Languages you speak?

English, Vietnamese

Favorite activities to do in the Twin Cities?

There's so much to do in the Twin Cities and there's always something new to try! I particularly enjoy trying new restaurants, exploring new breweries, attending street festivals and events, and brewing my own beer.