Portrait of Sydney Whalen, MD, MA

Sydney Whalen, MD, MA

Resident

Education

Undergraduate School: University of Alabama
Medical School: University of Illinois College of Medicine
PubMed Names: Sydney Whalen


Residency

Why did you choose WashU for your residency?

I chose WashU for the exceptional clinical and surgical training, research opportunities, and strong fellowship matches!

Why OBGYN?
I originally wanted to be an interventional radiologist, specifically for fibroid care, but fell in love with full scope OBGYN during my third year rotation. I adore the combination of both medicine and surgery, along with the privilege of supporting patients through important life events!

What are you looking forward to the most about being a resident here at WashU?
I am most looking forward to working with my co-residents! I love them so much already.

What goals do you hope to accomplish during your residency?
One goal I hope to accomplish during residency is to publish in a major academic journal!

What are your research interests?
My interests include improving LGBTQIA+ care, fertility preservation, artificial intelligence, and medical education.


Awards & Honors

AOA, Graduation with Honors, Clinical Executives in Medicine Program


Personal

Hometown:
Pronouns: she/her/hers

What do you do outside of work?    
Outside of work, I love to spend time with my partner and puppy, workout, meal prep, and make TikToks!

What’s something that most people don’t know about you?
Something most people don’t know about me is that I was a forceps baby! (Sorry, Mom!)

We know it’s early, but do you have any fellowship plans for after residency?
After residency, I am excited to pursue REI or CBG fellowship!

What advice would you give medical students applying for a residency in OBGYN?

If you’re applying to OBGYN residency, I would reflect on your motivations and focus on extracurricular activities that support your overarching “why.” I think OBGYN residency programs value advocacy and community service just as much, if not more, than Board scores or grades!