Sarah Van Son, MD
Resident
Education
Undergraduate School: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Washington University in St. Louis
PubMed name(s): Sarah Van Son, Sarah D Van Son
Residency
Why did you choose WashU for your residency?
“I had a fantastic experience with the department throughout all of my rotations in medical school! The faculty are fantastic teachers and role models, and they work hard to facilitate research and evidence-based practices that promote the heath of women and infants. The residents have treated me with immense kindness, and I have seen how they look out for each other during difficult times in their own training. In addition to getting exposure to both world-class generalist and subspecialty training, this program also boasts a continuity clinic that allows residents to build longitudinal relationships with their patients.
Overall, there are too many reasons to list why I wanted to stay at WashU for residency, and I am very grateful to continue my training at this institution.”
What are you looking forward to the most by being a resident here at WashU?
“I know this is cliché, but I am most looking forward building relationships with my co-residents, faculty, and future patients. I am also so happy to get to spend 4 more years exploring St. Louis!”
What goals do you hope to accomplish during your residency?
“I was partially drawn to OBGYN because of the broad scope of practice. You get to form very special, longitudinal relationships with patients in the ambulatory setting while also having the privilege to take care of them in the hospital and/or operating room. Consequently, I am excited to acquire both the technical skills required to treat my patients in addition to honing my counseling skills.”
What are your research interests?
“My previous research has explored ways to target various neoplastic pathways in addition to the management of endometriosis.”
Personal
Hometown: Ojai, California
What do you do outside of work?
“My significant other and I have a dog and two bunnies, so much of my time is spent with animals! I also love to cook, run/rollerblade in Forest Park, and read (when time allows).”
What’s something that most people don’t know about you?
“I used to study classical voice!”
We know it’s early, but do you have any fellowship plans for after residency?
“TBD! But I have a sneaking suspicion I will be pursuing a fellowship.”
What advice would you give medical students applying for a residency in OBGYN?
“A lot of the advice I received going into clerkships involved study strategies for shelf exams, or how to survive pimping on rounds/in the OR. Though this advice was helpful, I would advise students to leverage your soft skills! Incorporating yourself on the team and advocating for your patients is oftentimes more memorable and impactful.”