Faces of U of T Medicine: Mahsa Rahmany Rad
Mahsa Rahmany Rad is an incoming MD student with the Class of 2T2. She spoke with Faculty of Medicine writer Julia Soudat about what inspired her to become a physician and what she’s most excited about for the upcoming year.
What made you want to become a doctor?
When I was ten years old, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I would spend my nights reading medical articles, trying to understand every word written about breast cancer. Being so young, no matter how much I read, I still could not wrap my mind around my mother's disease. I had no understanding of or appreciation for medical research until I realized it could save my mother's life. My commitment to learning the human body and treatments for breast cancer was what I thought could help save my mother's life. Soon, I realized I enjoyed drowning in the never-ending medical articles and research even after my mother was cured. Taking care of her was a bittersweet experience, yet it showed me how much I enjoyed taking care of people and being the one they can rely on in such vulnerable circumstances.
Your mother was obviously a big inspiration to you. How did she react when you told her you were going to medical school?
She was over the moon when I told her I got in to UofTmed and kept jumping up and down while screaming “I knew you would get in! I knew it!” She has always been my number one fan and I am so glad I could share this joyous success with her.
What specialty do you hope to pursue and why?
I’m currently interested in surgical oncology with a focus on breast surgeries. What sparked my passion for this area of specialization is my experience with my mother’s disease and everything I’ve learned from doing research in the Familial Breast Cancer Research Unit at Women’s College Hospital. My research experience taught me how vital effective breast surgeries (preventive or therapeutic) are in reducing breast cancer mortality in high risk populations and I love working with my hands and building long-term relationships with patients.
What are you most looking forward to as a UofTMed student?
I’m excited about everything! Making new friends, meeting my future colleagues, finding new mentors and immersing myself in the big city life. I’m also eager to learn more about myself and my passions. The research opportunities available at U of T sound very interesting and I’m looking forward to exploring them.
What do you think the biggest challenges will be?
I think the biggest challenge will be the school-life balance. It’s easy to get sucked into a “study only” lifestyle in medical school, which is unhealthy both physically and mentally. Being able to incorporate social activities like spending time with friends, family, working out and reading while maintaining a stellar academic record won’t be easy.
What do you like to do outside of school?
I love interior design. Whenever I get a chance, I like to learn about new trends, colour schemes, décor ideas, etc. I also enjoy lap swimming and baking desserts!
What’s your favourite dessert?
Cheesecake is hands down my favourite dessert!
Faces of U of T Medicine introduces you to some of the interesting people studying in the Faculty of Medicine. From advising political leaders to providing care to Toronto’s most vulnerable populations, our students are making an impact on communities at home and around the world.
Do you have an interesting story to share? Contact us at medicine.communications@utoronto.ca.
