I think I’m contributing rather than changing the world. Every day when I save a life or improve the quality of life of a person I feel that I’ve done something important and significant. This might not be changing the world but it’s definitely life-changing.

Everyone I meet and everything I do at work collectively motivates me towards improving patient wellbeing and care — from my family that is happy with what I’m doing; to my students and residents, who appreciate what I teach them; to my patients who are thankful for the alleviation of their pain. 

Moreover, being aware that a study that we conducted might improve the knowledge or the management of our patients, gives me further satisfaction and motivates me in my academic pursuits.

This can be classified in two ways: The scientific impact, improving our understanding of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, will lead to more precise diagnoses and more efficient management. And the clinical impact, teaching residents and getting them involved in research will make them future leaders in the field.

The main challenge is matching the clinical work with my research activity. To do good research, one needs designated time to think about the problems and devise solutions, but clinicians have no such designated time. This is the greatest challenge I face every day. I am a highly collaborative, sincere person devoted to medicine and my profession of helping anyone and everyone

who meets me both in a professional capacity at work or outside of work. I believe my future will continue down the same path I am pursuing today: Lots of work, lots of research — and lots of satisfaction.