When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to work at UNICEF so I could help children around the world. I come from an immigrant family and I saw firsthand, when I visited India, the inequity many children faced in third-world countries. I wanted to make a difference for all children so they could have an equal opportunity to improve their lives.
What would you do if you didn’t work in healthcare?
I would work in public policy. I love being able to work on initiatives that can help improve entire communities and make the world a better place.
Who was your mentor? What made her or him an effective mentor?
My mother, Dr. Asha Jain, was my mentor. She came to the U.S. in the 1970s and continued to pursue her medical career amid many obstacles, including English being her second language and being a mother amongst a male-dominated field. I saw her struggle but I also saw her passion and love of being a doctor. My mother taught me the meaning of passion and pursuing a career that is meaningful.
What are you doing to mentor others — to send the career ladder back down, so to speak?
At the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, I work with many medical students and residents as they are shaping their careers in medicine. I remind them of the importance of finding their passion and keeping an open mind when carving out their career path. There are so many ways as a physician we can contribute to society so it is important to take the time to find the path that brings you the most satisfaction.
What’s something your colleagues don’t know about you?
I was born in India and came to America at the age of two months.
What are the three things in your daily workspace that you can’t live without?
My phone, calendar and laptop.
What is your favorite book (or TV show, movie, band or song)? What about it resonates strongly with you?
Ted Lasso because of its theme of the importance of being a team player. I, myself, was a soccer player growing up. So, I have been able to take those learnings into my work life. In my career, I have worked with so many amazing colleagues, and seeing firsthand what can be accomplished when people work as a team rather than caring for themselves has truly been a blessing.
What’s on your to-do list for when you retire?
Spend more time with family and friends. Travel the world, cook and exercise.
