PM&R Resident Spotlight: Dr. Michael Nguyen
PM&R Chief Resident, Dr. Amanda Day, spearheaded a fun initiative for the community to get to know our residents. The PM&R resident spotlight is on co-chief resident, Dr. Michael Nguyen!
Where did you go to medical school?
University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle.
What drew you to PM&R?
I was attracted to the field of Physiatry, early during my first year after working with Dr. Gregory Carter in Spokane, Washington. It was rewarding to be an advocate and ally for patients with disabilities as they navigated through the complex healthcare system. This connected with me as a first generation Vietnamese-American. As I progressed through medical school, I became more interested in inpatient rehabilitation because I loved working in interdisciplinary team dynamics and helping individuals through their acute injuries.
What are your goals as a Chief Resident?
As chief resident during a global pandemic, I hope to be a resource and support for my colleagues as they navigate through a new educational environment modified by the changes in how healthcare is being delivered. I feel that this is an opportunity to modernize how medical training and care are delivered to our patient population. Secondly, I hope to promote a strong collegial environment where thoughts and ideas to improve our residency are encouraged. I look forward to working with my co-residents and the residency leadership to advancing our residency and the field of Physiatry.
What advice would you give a current fourth year Med student applying to PM&R?
The best advice I received as a medical student was, "find your people." Find the residents and mentors who you believe will be your support through your training and career is extremely valuable. There are pros and cons for each decision you make but be confident, recognize you belong, and do your best once you've arrived.
What activities are you involved in outside of residency?
Outside of my residency, I'm involved in multiple local nonprofit events that help to support lower income and people with disabilities through fundraising and political advocacy. At the University, I have had the opportunity to be a part of the Resident Leadership Academy (RLA) and the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopment Disabilities (MNLEND) programs, which have given me exposure to healthcare executives and research leaders in the greater Twin Cities. I am also involved in research looking at vocational outcomes after Veterans sustain traumatic brain injuries and hope to be able to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in our field.
What are your favorite things about the Twin Cities?
I enjoy the variety of outdoors activities available throughout the year. Although winters have taken a bit to get used to, Minnesota is well equipped to give you access to frozen lakes and ice sculptures (that I'd never seen before). The Minnesota State Fair is an experience that anyone who hasn't been to, should definitely do once in their lives. Lastly, I really appreciate that there is an atmosphere that supports clinical learners here from the attendings to our patients. Feeling safe and desired after years of training is a privilege.
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